What Are The Different Anal Fistula Treatment Options & Their Respective Costs?
An anal fistula can be treated
- Fistulotomy: Fistulotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat anal fistulas. It involves making an incision along the fistula tract to remove the infected tissue and promote healing. This procedure is effective in treating anal fistulas and can provide relief from symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and drainage. The cost of fistulotomy ranges between the range of INR.35,000 to INR.80,000 in Chennai.
- LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract): LIFT, or Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract, is a surgical procedure used to treat anal fistulas. It involves identifying and ligating the fistula tract, thereby promoting healing and preventing recurrence. LIFT is a minimally invasive technique that offers good results and a low risk of complications. The cost of LIFT procedure for anal fistula lies between the range of INR.70,000 to INR.85,000 in Chennai
- Seton placement: Seton placement is a procedure used to treat anal fistulas. It involves inserting a small piece of material, such as a rubber band or a surgical thread, into the fistula tract. This helps to keep the tract open and allows proper drainage. Seton placement is often done as part of a multi-stage treatment approach for anal fistulas. The seton placement for anal fistula may cost between INR.30,000 to INR.60,000 in Chennai
- Advancement flap procedure: The advancement flap procedure is a surgical technique used to treat anal fistulas. It involves creating a flap of tissue near the fistula and advancing it into the anal canal to cover the opening. This helps promote healing and prevent recurrence. The procedure is effective in treating complex fistulas and has a low risk of complications. The cost of advancement flap procedure for anal fistula in Chennai may range between INR.70,000 to INR.80,000.
- Laser surgery: Laser surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat anal fistulas. It involves using a laser to remove the abnormal tissue and seal the fistula tract. This technique offers several advantages, including reduced pain, faster healing, and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery. Laser surgery is an effective option for treating anal fistulas. The cost of laser anal fistula surgery may lie between the range of INR.35,000 to INR.60,000 in Chennai
Cost of Different Types of Fistula Surgeries in Chennai
| Surgical Procedures | Minimum cost | Avgerage cost | Maximum cost |
| Fistulotomy | 35,000 | 55,000 | 80,000 |
| LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) | 70,000 | 77,500 | 85,000 |
| Seton Placement | 30,000 | 45,000 | 60,000 |
| Advancement flap procedure | 70,000 | 75,000 | 80,000 |
| Laser surgery | 35,000 | 47,500 | 60,000 |
Usually, doctors prefer laser surgery to treat fistulas as it offers various benefits over other procedures.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Fistula Treatment in Chennai
There are various factors that may affect the cost of fistula treatment in Chennai and can be different for each individual. Some common factors that may affect the cost of fistula surgery are:
- Type of Surgery: The type of surgical procedure majorly impacts the final cost of the surgery. For example, laser fistula surgery is more cost-effective than any other surgical procedures.
- Surgeon's fee: Usually, doctors charge based on their experience. A more experienced doctor charges much more than the less experienced doctor. So, the choice of the doctor also impacts the cost of the surgery.
- Cost of diagnostic tests: The cost of diagnostic tests can impact the overall expense of fistula surgery, making it an important consideration.
- Anesthesiologist fee: The anesthesiologist fee is an important factor to consider when calculating the total cost of a fistula surgery. The fee charged by the anesthesiologist varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the surgery, the duration of the procedure, and the location of the medical facility.
- Severity of the condition: The severity of a condition can affect the cost of fistula surgery, leading to a potential increase in treatment expense. The more severe the condition, the higher the overall cost.
- Age of the patient: Age of the patient is a significant factor that can impact the overall cost of anal fistula surgery.
- Location: The geographic location of the hospital or clinic where the surgery is being performed can also have an effect on the cost. Generally, the cost of surgery may be higher in urban areas as opposed to rural areas.
- Insurance coverage: Insurance coverage is also an important factor that can affect the final cost of the surgery. Some insurance companies partially cover the cost of the surgery whereas some provide full coverage. You need to consult your insurance provider to know the coverage of your policy.
- Hospital stay: The period of the hospital stay can affect the final cost of the surgery. The longer the stay, the more expensive the surgery.
- Complications (if there are any): If there are any complications, the doctor may need to change or alter the procedure which may lead to an increase in the final cost of the surgery.
It is always better to consult with your doctor about all the factors that may affect the final cost of the surgery so that you can be financially prepared beforehand.
Is Anal Fistula Treatment Covered Under Health Insurance in Chennai?
Health insurance usually covers treatment for anal fistula and similar conditions in Chennai. The coverage amount depends on the policy you choose.
Remember, medical treatment for anal fistula might not be covered by insurance. Only surgical treatment expenses are usually covered, but you need to be hospitalized for at least 24 hours to claim it. You can pay directly to the hospital or ask for reimbursement from the insurance company.
If your claim gets approved, the insurance will cover the entire cost of the treatment, including tests, medications, hospital stay, and other necessary items.
Some popular health insurance providers in India include:
- Oriental
- Religare Health
- Manipal Cigna
- United India Insurance
- Care Health
- New India Insurance
- Star Health & Allied
- Bajaj Allianz General Insurance
- ICICI Lombard
- Max Bupa Health Insurance.
