Seton for anal fistula

Hi, I had an seton fitted almost 3 years ago. I haven't seen my surgeon for 18 months and have been removed from his out patients. I have no idea what to do about my seton. I was told it was growing out and that it was going to be removed however because I couldn't make the scheduled date they removed me from his patient list and said my case was closed. Has anyone had a similar experience?
It is very loose and hanging low. Some days I think about removing it myself as if I cut it, it would slide right out but then I panic about if my abscess would come back. I feel so embarrassed about it. I started a new relationship about 8 months ago and had to have the awkward chat about my resident piece of string before we got intimate for the first time. He doesn't seem bothered by it at all but I become very embarrassed about it.
I'm sorry this is a long post just looking for some support from others that have been through this.
Thanks 🙂

ABF said...
Hi
I have had my fistula for over a year now. From your post I have learnt a lot and the pain I was experiencing was normal. I had surgery a week ago and they never said anything about the pain. However my seton had fallen out less then a week after the surgery. I looked after it washed as match i could ( being a primsry school teacher doesnt help). I was just wondering if this has happened to anyone else and what the next step might be. Thanks

Hi, I also have rectal fistualing CD with setons installed. What do you take for pain?
Pain is a disease in itself and WILL KILL YOU.