by LemonMan » 11 Sep 2017, 02:33
So, went to see my CRS for a recall appointment. Learnt quite a few interesting things. He confirmed that the fissure was still there. He said that on the NHS you only get one shot at botox and the next step is LIS.
Interestingly he said the success rate was about 90% with a 5% chance of mild incontinence. By which he explained as 'skid marks and farting'. He also went on to explain that the success rate was higher in men because men have a longer anal canal - something I didn't know. He said that they cut about 10% of the sphincter.
We discussed how I felt and I said I was marginally better than this time last year. So basically the decision I have now is whether to live with it, or go ahead with the surgery.
I asked him how bad he thought mine was compared to others he had seen, and he said it wasn't too bad. I also asked him if any patients eventually self heal, and he said that for some the pain does eventually 'burn itself out'.
At the moment I'm not using any ointment -Diltiazem caused me massive itching and inflammation, and GTN was like being hit on the head with a hammer - so I think I have been unlucky in that respect.
All I am doing at the moment is movicol, hot baths, and I'm trying infrared treatment. I did mention the infrared treatment to the surgeon, and he said there might be a placebo effect (lol) and it wouldn't hurt to continue.
So basically I go back to see him in 3 months and I then have to decide whether to go for LIS or not. Very difficult decision at the moment I have to say as generally things are better than this time last year.
Best LM
Last edited by
LemonMan on 11 Sep 2017, 08:53, edited 2 times in total.
Aug 14: Anal Abscess diagnosed
Dec 15: Anterior Anal Fissure diagnosed
Jan 16: Anoheal - Thought was healed end of Jan
Apr 16: Anoheal - Thought was healed end of May
Sep 16: Fissure back. Started Anoheal again
May 17: Botox and banding - fingers crossed