Kaizen Fistula Care

PILTEC: a modification of the LIFT procedure

An anal fistula is not just a physical problem. It brings daily discomfort, embarrassment, and worry, especially when it keeps coming back after surgery. Many patients in Pune visit clinic after clinic, hoping for a permanent solution, only to see the fistula return after some months. This is exactly the gap that the PILTEC Procedure in Pune was created to fill.

At Kaizen Fistula Care, Dr. Samrat Jankar, a well-known Fistula Specialist in Pune, has spent over 17+ years working closely with patients who have complex and recurrent anal fistula. In this time, he has personally performed more than 5,000 fistula surgeries, which gave him deep insight into why some fistulas keep coming back even after correct treatment. Out of this experience, he developed PILTEC, a technique built specifically for cases where earlier treatments did not give lasting relief.

His work on fistula surgery has also earned him recognition beyond India. He won the First Prize at FISTULACON 2021, an international summit held by the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India, for his video presentation on the LASER LIFT procedure for complex fistula-in-ano. He also received the Best Video Award at AMASICON 2019 and a Gold Medal Fellowship from ACRSI for topping his fellowship in advanced colorectal surgery. In 2025, Outlook Magazine named him Best Doctor in Pune for his clinical dedication and surgical patient care. Along with this, he has presented research papers at national conferences, including an Innovative Award Paper at ACRISICON 2019 and the Young Scholar Award at AMASICON 2018 for his work on laparoscopic living donor hepatectomy.

He brings together this surgical skill, modern equipment, and a genuine understanding of what patients go through, both physically and emotionally. He practises at Kaizen Fistula Care, part of Kaizen Gastro Care, a clinic in Wakad that is well equipped with modern diagnostic and surgical facilities for anorectal and gastrointestinal conditions.

What is the PILTEC Procedure?

PILTEC (Partial Ligation and Transfixion with Electrocauterization) is an advanced modification of the LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) procedure. It is designed to enhance the success rate of LIFT, particularly in complex anal fistula cases. By combining partial ligation, transfixion, and electrocauterization, PILTEC significantly lowers the risk of recurrence while preserving the sphincter function.

PILTEC procedure

Why is the PILTEC Procedure Performed?

PILTEC is performed to treat high-risk or recurrent anal fistulas while preserving anal sphincter integrity. It is specifically recommended for cases where traditional treatments have failed or have a high likelihood of failure.

Reasons for Performing PILTEC:
  • Closure of complex, high-transsphincteric fistulas.
  • Recurrent fistulas after failed previous surgeries.
  • To prevent damage to the anal sphincter and avoid incontinence.
  • A safer alternative to conventional fistula surgery.
  • Preserve the sphincter muscle and prevent fecal incontinence.
  • Minimize the risk of recurrence in complex fistula cases.
  • Offer a minimally invasive solution with faster recovery.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for PILTEC Procedure:

Patients who eventually need PILTEC often describe a similar pattern. They had a fistula treated once, felt better for some time, and then the same symptoms slowly returned. If you notice any of the following, it is worth getting evaluated properly:

  • Pain near the anus that does not fully go away
  • Pus or blood discharge from a small opening near the anus
  • Repeated swelling or abscess in the same area
  • Constant itching or irritation around the anal region
  • A wound from earlier surgery that never healed completely
  • Mild fever along with anal discomfort

If these symptoms keep returning even after one surgery, it is a strong sign of fistula recurrence, and it is best not to ignore it.

When Should You Consider the PILTEC Procedure?

Not every fistula patient needs PILTEC. It is generally suggested when the case is genuinely complex or has already come back once before. You may want to discuss PILTEC with your doctor if:

  • Your fistula has returned after one or more previous surgeries
  • Imaging has shown a complex anal fistula tract with multiple branches
  • Your earlier doctor was hesitant to operate due to risk to the sphincter muscle
  • Basic fistulotomy or seton placement did not fully resolve your problem
  • You want a solution planned by an experienced colorectal specialist rather than a one-size-fits-all approach

Early consultation with a Colorectal Specialist in Pune usually saves patients from months of unnecessary discomfort and repeated procedures.

Benefits of the PILTEC Procedure:

  • Higher success rate compared to LIFT and other techniques.
  • Minimally invasive with a quick recovery period.
  • Lower risk of fecal incontinence as the sphincter is preserved.
  • Reduced risk of recurrence, providing long-term relief.
  • Can be performed on an outpatient basis, reducing hospitalization time.
  • Faster recovery time with minimal discomfort.
  • Lower postoperative complications compared to traditional fistula surgeries.

The PILTEC Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide:

Pre-Surgical Evaluation:
  • Thorough clinical evaluation and medical history examination.
  • Imaging studies like MRI fistulogram to determine fistula complexity.
  • Pre-operative blood tests and stool examination.
  • Bowel preparation as recommended by the surgeon.
Surgical Procedure:
  • The patient is given local, spinal, or general anesthesia.
  • The fistula tract is identified using a probe or imaging techniques.
  • The tract is partially ligated and transfixed to close it securely.
  • Electrocauterization is used to destroy infected tissue and seal the tract.
  • The sphincter muscle is preserved to prevent incontinence.
  • The wound is closed with minimal suturing, providing fast healing.
Post-Surgical Care & Recovery:
  • Hospital stay: Usually a day-care or one-day hospitalization.
  • Pain management: Mild painkillers are prescribed.
  • Dietary modifications: High-fiber diet to prevent constipation.
  • Hygiene: Proper perianal hygiene to avoid infections.
  • Follow-up visits for dressing changes and wound healing assessment.

Risks and Complications of PILTEC Procedure:

No surgery is completely free of risk, and it would not be honest to say otherwise. However, when performed by an experienced surgeon, the risks with PILTEC are generally low and manageable. Some possible issues include:

  • Minor bleeding at the surgical site
  • A small chance of infection
  • Temporary discomfort while sitting for a few days
  • Slightly delayed healing in a few patients
  • A rare chance of fistula recurrence, even after correct surgery

Most of these risks reduce significantly when the procedure is carried out by a skilled Fistula Surgeon in Pune, along with proper post-operative care.

Diet and Prevention Tips After PILTEC Procedure:

Recovery does not end once you leave the hospital. What you eat and how you care for yourself at home plays a big role in how well the fistula heals. Here is a detailed guide on what to include and what to avoid.

Foods you should eat:

  • Fibre-rich fruits like papaya, banana, guava, and pears, which help soften stools naturally
  • Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, methi, and cabbage
  • Whole grains like oats, brown rice, whole wheat roti, and dalia
  • Pulses and dal, which are easy to digest and rich in nutrition
  • Curd or buttermilk, which supports good gut bacteria and digestion
  • Plenty of water, at least 8 to 10 glasses a day, to keep stools soft and easy to pass
  • Fruit juices without added sugar, coconut water, and clear soups for hydration

Foods you should avoid:

  • Spicy food, including red chilli powder, garam masala, and heavily seasoned dishes
  • Oily and deep-fried food like pakoras, samosas, and fried snacks
  • Red meat and heavy non-vegetarian food, which can be harder to digest during recovery
  • Processed and packaged food with preservatives
  • Alcohol and smoking, which slow down healing and increase infection risk
  • Excess tea, coffee, and caffeinated drinks, which can cause constipation
  • Refined and maida-based food like white bread, biscuits, and bakery items

Other important care tips:

  • Try not to strain while passing stools, as straining puts pressure on the healing area
  • Keep the surgical area clean and dry at all times to prevent infection
  • Take a sitz bath (sitting in warm water) if advised by your doctor, as it soothes the area and supports healing
  • Avoid sitting for long hours continuously; take short breaks to walk
  • Take medicines exactly as advised, without skipping doses
  • Do not lift heavy weights or do strenuous exercise until your doctor allows it
  • Do not miss your follow-up appointments, even if you feel completely fine

These small steps go a long way in supporting healing and lowering the chances of fistula recurrence in the future.

Why Choose Dr. Samrat Jankar for PILTEC Procedure Treatment In Pune?

Choosing the right surgeon matters more in complex fistula cases than almost anywhere else in surgery. Dr. Samrat Jankar brings over 17 years of experience in gastrointestinal and colorectal surgery, with training from GEM Hospital, one of the most respected centres for this field in India. He holds an MBBS from Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Hospital, Mumbai, an MS in General Surgery, and a DNB in Surgical Gastroenterology.

Over the years, he has performed more than 5,000 fistula surgeries and over 3,000 laparoscopic procedures. It was this depth of experience that led him to develop the PILTEC technique in the first place, specifically to help patients whose complex or recurrent fistula did not improve with earlier treatment.

His work has also been recognised at a national level. He received the Best Doctor in Pune award in 2025 from Outlook Magazine, a Gold Medal Fellowship from the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India, and the First Prize at FISTULACON 2021 for his video presentation on the LASER LIFT procedure for complex fistula-in-ano.

As a trusted Fistula Specialist in Pune, Dr. Jankar does not offer PILTEC as the only option. He also provides Laser Fistula Treatment, LIFT Procedure Treatment in Pune, Fistulotomy, and Seton Placement, choosing the right approach based on each patient’s specific condition rather than following a fixed protocol.

Why Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic is the Best Choice for PILTEC Procedure in Pune?

Kaizen Fistula Care operates under Kaizen Gastro Care, a clinic founded in 2022 with a clear focus on honest, patient-first treatment. Patients choose this clinic for Fistula Treatment for several reasons.

The clinic is led directly by Dr. Samrat Jankar, a respected colorectal specialist who is personally involved in each case rather than delegating complex decisions. Diagnosis is supported by advanced tools, including MRI fistulogram, so treatment plans are based on accurate information rather than guesswork. Every patient receives a personalised plan, because no two fistula tracts are exactly the same.

The clinic has built a strong track record in handling complex and recurrent fistula cases, which is often the most difficult category to treat successfully. The facility itself is modern and hygienic, located in Wakad, and conveniently accessible for patients from Baner, Aundh, Hinjewadi, and the wider PCMC area. Perhaps most importantly, the team stays involved with patients well beyond the day of surgery, offering genuine support through the entire recovery period.

If you are exploring PILTEC Surgery, or simply want clarity on PILTEC Treatment Cost, the team is happy to explain everything in plain language during your first consultation itself.

How Much Does the PILTEC Procedure Cost in Pune?

This is one of the most common questions patients ask, and it is a fair one. The cost of the PILTEC Procedure depends on a few factors, such as how complex the fistula is, the hospital facilities used, and the experience of the surgeon performing it.

On an average, PILTEC Treatment Cost in Pune ranges between ₹50,000 and ₹1,50,000. This is only a general range, and your actual cost may be different based on your specific case. For exact pricing details suited to your condition, it is best to contact Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic directly.

Book Your Fistula Treatment:

If you have been struggling with a fistula that keeps coming back, or if you have been told your case is complex, do not wait for the problem to get worse. The right treatment at the right time can save you from months of pain and repeated surgeries.

Book a consultation with Dr. Samrat Jankar at Kaizen Fistula Care today. Call 79041 39064 or write to kaizenfistulacare@gmail.com to schedule your appointment. You can also walk in to the clinic in Wakad, Pune, Monday to Saturday, between 8 AM and 9 PM. Take the first step towards lasting relief from your fistula.

Frequently Asked Questions

PILTEC is a modified version of LIFT with higher success rates and lower recurrence.

No, the procedure is performed under anesthesia, and post-operative pain is manageable.

The PILTEC procedure takes about 30-60 minutes.

It is usually a day-care procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.

Most patients can resume work within a few days, depending on healing.

Yes, PILTEC has a high success rate, significantly lowering recurrence chances.

Many health insurance plans cover fistula surgeries, including PILTEC.

A high-fiber diet with plenty of water helps smooth recovery.

While recurrence is low, proper post-surgical care is essential to prevent it.

PILTEC has a higher success rate than traditional LIFT, with significantly lower recurrence.

PILTEC modifies LIFT by using electrocautery and transfixion, improving success rates.

Do you have any questions related to fistula, then don’t hesitate to ask with our expert.? Do you need any help?

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