Surgisis AFP Anal Fistula Plug, a revolutionary new treatment for fistula closure

Surgisis AFP Plug: Procedure

What happens during the procedure?

SIS Matrix 1
1. The doctor locates the inside opening of the fistula in the anal canal using a fistula probe and irrigates the tract.
SIS Matrix 3
2. The Surgisis AFP plug is pulled into the inside opening. The doctor notes where the plug enters the primary opening and cuts the plug to size.
SIS Matrix 3
3. The inside opening is closed by suturing the top tissue layers of the anal canal over the Surgisis AFP plug's head.
SIS Matrix 4
4. Finally, the doctor sutures the tip of the plug to the edge of the exterior opening at skin level (optional). The exterior opening is not closed to allow for drainage. The tip of the plug is trimmed at skin level.

What care is needed before and after the procedure?
It is important for you and your doctor to discuss the appropriate care needed before and after your procedure. Your doctor will have specific recommendations for you to follow.

Some of your doctor’s recommendations for care before your procedure may or may not include those listed below.

  • No solid foods the day before the procedure
  • Drink clear liquids 24 hours before the procedure
    • Clear soda (i.e., ginger ale)
    • Clear fruit juices (i.e., apple, grape or white grape)
    • Tea
    • Ice
    • Popsicles
    • Jell-O
    • Soup, broth/bouillon
  • Bowel prep the evening before the procedure
  • Oral antibiotic the evening before the procedure

After your procedure, your doctor’s recommendations may or may not include those listed below. Please discuss specific questions or concerns with your doctor.

  • Maintain a liquid diet for two days after the procedure (i.e., soup, Jell-O, etc.)
  • Eat a high fiber diet after two days
  • Use the bathroom once a day
  • Avoid heavy lifting, straining and strenuous exercise for two weeks at a minimum (i.e., weightlifting, jogging, swimming, etc.)
  • Take over-the-counter pain medicine as needed
  • Shower standing up and bathe the area with water to soothe and keep it clean
  • Do not sit in the bathtub
  • Do not use topical steroids or topical agents such as Preparation H
  • Expect some drainage for two to four weeks after the procedure as the Surgisis AFP plug is incorporated and the fistula tract is closed
  • Schedule a follow-up appointment and call your doctor if you develop significant pain, swelling around the area, fever or chills