What type of surgeon for perianal fistula? Please help! - Bowel Disorders Message Board

blueskys · 09-28-2005, 06:20 AM

Hi,
I had a perianal abscess with fistula surgery last Wednesday, September 21st. 7 days ago. They did a new procedure where they inserted a plug/drain. They gave it a 80% cure rate. Well it didn't work, the plug came out this morning.
My doctor that operated is on vacation until next Tuesday. Since it failed I will now have to have surgery again on the fistula. My doctor is a general surgeon. Should I be looking for a specialist to do this surgery, and if so what kind? I looked up colo-rectal surgeon, and there isn't any in our area. Is there another name? Are general surgeons recommended for such a surgery? Please I hope I hear from someone.
I am having a real hard time here, because I now have to go thru this again.

blueskys

izaac · 09-30-2005, 08:30 AM

The one who operated on mine was a general surgeon, highly recommended by my GP. I guess I should have gone straight to a colo-rectal surgeon. I suppose they are more familiar with this sort of cases.

SRMom · 09-30-2005, 10:26 AM

The other name you might be looking for is gastroenterologist...they do colorectal surgery. A general surgeon should be fine...that's all they do is surgery, so they are pretty good at it. Maybe look for another one, or see if a gynecologist can do this surgery. I'm so sorry you are going through this blueskys. I know you're going to be fine, but when you are going through a crisis, it's hard to see the light. Take care.

smithereens · 10-01-2005, 08:44 AM

I used a colo-rectal surgeon for my surgeries. Had wonderful success, and if I have to do them again, right back I'll go.

My GI sent me to this surgeon, and he literally gave me peace of mind, and did a superb job.