Have you ever considered traveling for specialized medical care?

For many, questions about the quality of doctors, facilities, and treatment plans can arise. This video offers a unique perspective: Healing Hands Clinic through the eyes of a patient.

Fistulas are a complex and uncomfortable condition. If you’re suffering from one, you likely just want relief and the assurance of a successful cure. Healing Hands Clinic understands this, and that’s why they’ve pioneered a unique approach that prioritizes accurate diagnosis, minimally invasive treatment, and thorough follow-up care. This blog post will delve into the Healing Hands Process, exploring their advanced diagnostic techniques and the sphincter-saving DLPL surgery they’ve developed.

Step 1: Intake

The starting point of your journey is to evaluate your case:

• Initial Consultation: A phone consultation with a Healing Hands Clinic doctor to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and treatment history. 
• Initial Recommendation: The doctor will assess your suitability for treatment at Healing Hands and recommend the most appropriate course of action and next steps.
• Clinic Intake: When you arrive you will meet with a doctor to go over your medical history, any supporting documentation that you have with you, and complete the intake paperwork for medical treatment and visa verification.

Step 2: Accurate Diagnosis with 3D Endo-Anal Imaging

The foundation of successful fistula treatment lies in accurate diagnosis. At Healing Hands, they utilize the latest technology – 3D Endo-Anal Imaging – to achieve this. This innovative technique provides several advantages over traditional methods:

• Superior Accuracy: Unlike fistulography, which can create false tracts, 3D Endo-Anal Imaging offers a clear and detailed picture of the fistula’s path. This allows Dr. Ashwin Porwal to precisely identify the internal opening, track location, and involvement of the anal sphincter complex.
• Patient-Friendly: Unlike MRI scans, which can be claustrophobic for some patients, 3D Endo-Anal Imaging is a comfortable procedure. Additionally, it can be performed in the clinic setting, eliminating the need for a separate hospital visit.
• Dynamic Assessment: Fistulas can be dynamic, with new tracts forming over time. 3D Endo-Anal Imaging allows for a real-time assessment, ensuring the most up-to-date information is used to guide treatment decisions.
• Intra-operative Use: This imaging technique can be incredibly valuable during surgery. Dr. Porwal can use it to visualize the fistula in real-time, ensuring complete removal and minimizing the risk of complications.

Step 3: DLPL – Minimally Invasive Surgery for Fistula Closure

Once the fistula is precisely mapped, Dr. Porwal can perform Distal Laser Proximal Ligation (DLPL). This is a minimally invasive surgical technique specifically designed to address complex fistulas while preserving the anal sphincter muscles. Here’s a breakdown of the DLPL procedure:

• Fistula Tract Identification: A 3D probe is inserted into the fistula to confirm its course and complexity.
• Distal Laser Debridement: A thin laser fiber is used to remove diseased tissue lining the fistula tract. The laser’s precision minimizes damage to healthy tissue.
• Proximal Ligation: A suture or specialized band is placed around the internal opening of the fistula to seal it and promote healing.

Benefits of DLPL Surgery:

• Minimally Invasive: DLPL avoids large incisions, leading to faster recovery and reduced pain.
• Sphincter-Saving: The procedure prioritizes preserving the anal sphincter muscles, significantly reducing the risk of post-operative incontinence, a common concern for fistula patients.
• High Success Rate: Studies have shown DLPL to have a success rate exceeding 90% in achieving fistula closure with minimal recurrence.
• Reduced Complications: Compared to traditional fistula surgeries, DLPL boasts fewer reported complications such as bleeding and infection.

Step 4: Comprehensive Follow-Up Care for Optimal Healing

Healing Hands Clinic understands that successful fistula treatment extends beyond surgery. They offer a dedicated follow-up program that includes:

• Regular Appointments: Regular follow-up visits allow Dr. Porwal to monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise during healing.
• Deep Cleans: These specialized cleanings help promote drainage and prevent infection, a crucial factor in successful healing.
• Evaluation Under Anesthesia (EUA): In select cases, EUA procedures may be performed to address any issues that might hinder complete healing.
• Post-Operative Care Guidance: The clinic provides detailed instructions on diet, medications, and wound care to support optimal healing at home.

Traveling the Road to Recovery: Realistic Expectations and a Supportive Environment

Healing Hands Clinic empowers patients by setting realistic expectations. While complete healing may take 6-10 weeks, most patients can resume light activity within a few days and return to normal routines within a week. Additionally, the clinic understands the importance of emotional well-being during this process and strives to provide a supportive and informative environment throughout your journey to recovery.

Conclusion: The Healing Hands Advantage

If you’re battling a fistula, choosing the right treatment approach is critical. Healing Hands Clinic offers a comprehensive solution that prioritizes accurate diagnosis with 3D Endo-Anal Imaging and a minimally invasive, sphincter-saving surgical technique – DLPL. Coupled with their dedicated follow-up program and commitment to patient support, Healing Hands Clinic empowers you to achieve long-lasting relief and a return to your normal life.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding your specific situation.

Join JR on his journey as he demonstrates the patient experience. We extend a special thanks to JR for sharing this inside perspective, Dr. Porwal for his expertise, and the entire Healing Hands staff for allowing us to showcase their remarkable work.