Fistula Flap Surgery, and seton questions (newbie)

Hi there,

I had a drainage seton put in 3 weeks ago for an anal fistula. Things are a bit itchy down there, especially if I go for a long walk. I am normally very outdoorsy and athletic so I would really like to continue, but does anyone have a good suggestion for reducing the itch? I need a solution that will not interfere with my seton (i.e., i am worried that aquaphor will erode it!). My Dr (colo-rectal surgeon) made it sound like I should keep everything extremely dry, which basically sounds to me like I am SOL on this....I am not sure exactly what is itchy, maybe just the skin, maybe the seton poking me? Not sure....

Also, has anyone had the flap surgery? I was under the impression that it would mean 5 days in the hospital and weeks of rest afterwards, however my Dr said its either outpatient or one night in the hospital and that I could return to work after one week. Haha, should I believe her? Are there different kinds of lap surgery maybe?

Thanks for your help!!
-jen

Abscess started in December 2009 then Fistula since March 2010 (pregnancy related?)
No Crohns

Hi Jen, and welcome,

You might like to look at the fistula link in my signature - lots of good stuff in there.

As far as the itching goes, a little gauze pad or piece of toiilet paper over the wound might help. It's possible some of the leakage is irritating your skin. A bit of olive oil, nappy rash cream or zinc cream on the itchy part might help too.

Welcome!

Ivy.

Thanks for the tips!!!

I am just worried about those creams "eroding" my seton....which only will be in place another 10 weeks (then I am having flap surgery).

Ivy, I have already scoured the postings through those links! Thanks for the tip though!!! Super helpful stuff you have here, but not much conversation on flap surgery.....

-jen