The preparation of the sinus and the after-treatment are the same as already mentioned. Also evacuation of the bowels and constipation by the use of an opium suppository, even to the dilitation of the sphincters, if thought necessary to bring about a cure. In rare instances, where divulsion has been practiced and while yet under the influence of anæsthesia, it might be advisable to lay open the cavity by cutting from the sphincters, pockets traced, scarified and partitions divided.
Fig. 17.—Flexible Silver Canula.
In relation to treatment, Andrews says: “The truth is, that anal fistulæ have a natural tendency to recovery, and are held back from it mainly by two things.
1. “The unfavorable effect of the undrained septic fluids within the sac.
2. “The tightness of the external opening, which prevents free drainage, and keeps the sac distended with this putrid pus.
“It is demonstrated by Dr. Mathews on the one hand and by the experiments of quacks on the other, that by controlling these two conditions, many cases will heal spontaneously. It follows that among the thousands of patients subjected to cutting operations by surgeons for this disease, there are many who might be cured by much milder means.”
Shotwell’s operation consists in straitening out of the fistulous tract with a steel probe, having an eye at its distal end, which is carried entirely within the bowel whether the fistula is complete or not. He next pierces the solid structure about three-eighths of an inch farther from the anus with a lance-pointed probe also having an eye near its end, parallel with the first probe, until its end is seen penetrating the bowel a little beyond.
The eyes of the probes are then threaded with the opposite ends of a No. 24 platinum wire about ten inches in length, and both probes withdrawn, leaving the wire in situ forming a loop; both ends are now secured to an electrode, the current turned on and the loop drawn through the partition. Little, if any, dressing is required, but the bowels must be kept locked up for at least a week. This of course involves the use of general anæsthesia.
A word to the beginner, in the prevention and detection of fistula. Since abscess is the most prolific source, proper attention to the abscess by poulticing, early lancing, the sinus washed with hot, heavily carbolized water, allowed free drainage, the bowels evacuated, constipated and the muscles put at rest for a few days, will doubtless be successful in forestalling its almost certain fistulous sequence.