An Anal fistula or fistula-in-ano is a small channel that can develop between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. An anal fistula can cause bleeding and discharge when passing stools and can be very painful.
In some cases, an anal fistula causes persistent drainage. In other cases, where the outside of the channel opening closes, the result may be recurrent anal abscesses. If not treated properly, Anal Fistula may cause furthur complications.
The only cure for an anal fistula is surgery which usually involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter.