Living with an anal fistula is not easy. It causes pain, discomfort, and embarrassment in daily life. Many patients delay treatment because they fear surgery, scars, and long recovery. If you are looking for a trusted Fistula Specialist in Pune, Kaizen Fistula Care brings you a modern solution called the VAAFT procedure.
VAAFT stands for Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment. It is a scar-free, minimally invasive method to treat fistula. At Kaizen Fistula Care, this VAAFT Procedure Treatment in Pune is performed by Dr. Samrat Jankar, a highly experienced colorectal surgeon with over 17+ years of surgical experience and more than 5,000+ fistula surgeries to his credit. He received advanced training at GEM Hospital and has earned international recognition for his work, including the First Prize at FISTULACON (2021) for his LASER LIFT procedure and the Gold Medal Fellowship from the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI). He was also honoured as Best Doctor in Pune (2025) by Outlook Magazine. With this level of expertise, you can be confident of receiving safe and reliable care.
At Kaizen Fistula Care, our aim is simple. We want every patient to get correct diagnosis, honest advice, and effective treatment without unnecessary delay. Fistula problems can affect daily comfort, work, and confidence. That is why we focus on modern, minimally invasive options like VAAFT, which help patients heal faster and return to normal life sooner. In this page, we explain what VAAFT is, why it is needed, its benefits, risks, and why our clinic is the right choice for you.
What is the VAAFT Procedure?
VAAFT is a camera-guided surgery for anal fistula. A thin instrument called a fistuloscope is gently inserted into the fistula tract. This camera allows the surgeon to see the complete path of the fistula from inside the body. It also helps to find any hidden branches or pockets of infection that are difficult to detect through normal examination.
Once the tract is fully visible, the surgeon cleans it using saline and electrocautery. The internal opening, which is the main source of infection, is then closed securely. Because the entire procedure is done through a natural opening, there is no external cut on the skin. This is a big advantage for patients who are worried about scars or wound care.
VAAFT is considered one of the most advanced techniques used by a Colorectal Specialist in Pune for treating complex and recurrent fistula cases.
Why is the VAAFT Procedure Performed?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the inside of the anus and the skin outside. It usually develops after an anal abscess. Once formed, a fistula does not heal on its own. It needs proper surgical treatment.
VAAFT is performed for several important reasons:
- To locate the exact path of the fistula tract, including hidden branches
- To close the internal opening completely, which reduces chances of recurrence
- To avoid cutting the anal sphincter muscle, which controls bowel movements
- To reduce pain and speed up healing after surgery
- To provide a safe option for patients who have had failed fistula surgery before
Because VAAFT protects the sphincter muscle, it is a preferred choice for patients who are concerned about bowel control after surgery. This is one more reason why patients trust a qualified Fistula Surgeon in Pune for this treatment.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for VAAFT Procedure:
Many patients ignore early signs of fistula, thinking it is a minor skin problem. However, timely diagnosis can prevent complications. You should watch out for these symptoms:
- Constant or throbbing pain near the anus
- Pus, blood, or foul-smelling discharge from a small opening
- Swelling, redness, or a lump near the anal region
- Mild fever along with anal discomfort
- Repeated infections or abscess formation in the same area
- A wound near the anus that keeps opening and closing
- Discomfort while sitting for long hours
- Itching or irritation around the anal skin
If you notice any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, please do not wait. Visit a Fistula Specialist in Pune as early diagnosis leads to simpler and more successful treatment.
When Should You Consider the VAAFT Procedure?
Not every fistula patient needs VAAFT. However, it is strongly recommended in the following situations:
- When the fistula keeps coming back after previous surgery
- When the fistula is complex, meaning it has multiple tracts or branches
- When the fistula is located high up, close to important muscles
- When you want a treatment with minimal pain and no external wound
- When you wish to protect your sphincter muscle and avoid incontinence risk
- When you want faster recovery and early return to daily work
A detailed consultation with an experienced Fistula Surgeon in Pune helps decide if VAAFT is the right option for your specific condition. Every fistula case is different, so personalised evaluation is important before planning surgery.
Benefits of the VAAFT Procedure:
VAAFT offers many advantages over traditional fistula surgery. Some key benefits are:
- No external wound or stitches on the skin
- Accurate identification of the complete fistula tract under direct vision
- Very low risk of damage to the sphincter muscle
- Lower chances of bowel incontinence after surgery
- Faster wound healing compared to open surgery
- Minimal post-operative pain
- Shorter hospital stay
- Low chance of recurrence when combined with correct closure technique
- Suitable even for complex, recurrent, and horseshoe-type fistulas
These advantages make VAAFT one of the most reliable choices available today for Fistula Treatment in Pune.
The VAAFT Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide:
Pre-Surgical Evaluation:
- Comprehensive medical history review.
- Physical examination and imaging tests (MRI, ultrasound, or fistulography).
- Discussion of treatment options and expected outcomes.
Surgical Procedure:
- Insertion of Fistuloscope: A specialized fistuloscope is inserted into the fistula tract.
- Exploration & Cleaning: The surgeon visualizes the tract and removes infected tissue.
- Internal Closure: The internal opening of the fistula is closed using advanced techniques.
- External Drainage: The external opening is left open for natural drainage, minimizing infection risks.
Post-Surgical Care & Recovery:
- Mild discomfort for a few days managed with medications.
- Follow-up visits for monitoring healing progress.
- Resume normal activities within a week, with precautions.
Risks and Complications of the VAAFT Procedure:
VAAFT is generally a very safe procedure. However, like any surgery, it carries a small amount of risk. Being aware of these helps you make an informed decision:
- Mild bleeding during or after the procedure
- Temporary swelling or discomfort near the treated area
- Minor risk of infection if post-operative care instructions are not followed
- Rare chances of fistula recurrence, especially in very complex cases
- Occasional need for a second sitting in difficult or multiple-tract fistulas
Most of these risks are minor and manageable. Choosing an experienced Colorectal Specialist in Pune significantly reduces the chances of complications and ensures better long-term results.
Diet and Prevention Tips After VAAFT Procedure
Proper diet and lifestyle care after surgery play a big role in fast and smooth healing. Please follow these simple tips:
- Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day
- Eat fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and salads
- Avoid spicy, oily, and fried food for at least one to two weeks
- Avoid alcohol and smoking during the recovery period
- Do not sit for long hours; take short walks regularly
- Maintain good hygiene of the anal area after every bowel movement
- Avoid straining while passing stool
- Take a warm sitz bath if advised by your doctor
- Attend all follow-up visits as scheduled
- Follow your surgeon’s medication and care instructions strictly
These simple habits, combined with expert surgical care, help in quick recovery and reduce the chances of recurrence.
Why Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic is the Best Choice for VAAFT Procedure in Pune?
Choosing the right surgeon makes a big difference in the outcome of fistula treatment. Dr. Samrat Jankar is one of the most experienced names in this field.
- Over 17 years of surgical experience in gastrointestinal and colorectal surgery
- Performed more than 5,000 fistula surgeries and 3,000+ laparoscopic procedures
- Advanced training from GEM Hospital, a globally recognised centre for colorectal care
- Developer of the PILTEC technique, a specialised method for complex and recurrent fistula cases
- Winner of the First Prize at FISTULACON (2021) for his LASER LIFT procedure video presentation
- Recipient of the Gold Medal Fellowship from the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI)
- Awarded Best Doctor in Pune (2025) by Outlook Magazine’s healthcare survey
- Director and Head of Department of GI Surgery at Kaizen Gastro Care
- MBBS from Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Hospital, Mumbai, one of India’s oldest and most respected medical colleges
- MS in General Surgery and DNB in Surgical Gastroenterology, showing strong academic foundation
- Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS), awarded by AMASI, adding extra skill in laparoscopic techniques
- Regularly presents research papers and surgical videos at national and international medical conferences
- Won multiple awards for surgical video presentations, including recognition at AMASICON and ACRSICON conferences
- Known for honest, patient-first advice, explaining every option in simple language before treatment
- Follows ethical medical practice, so patients get only the treatment they truly need
His combination of skill, experience, and continuous learning makes him a dependable Fistula Surgeon in Pune for patients seeking VAAFT and other advanced fistula treatments.
Why is Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic is the Best Choice for VAAFT Procedure in Pune?
Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic is dedicated to providing complete and compassionate care to every patient. Here is why patients choose us:
- Personalised treatment plans based on each patient’s condition
- Modern surgical technology, including video-assisted fistula treatment
- High success rates in complex and recurrent fistula cases
- Ethical, honest, and transparent communication with patients
- Comfortable and hygienic clinic environment
- Experienced medical team supporting Dr. Samrat Jankar
- Convenient location in Wakad, easily accessible from Pimpri-Chinchwad, Baner, Aundh, and Hinjewadi
- Continued support and guidance even after surgery, during the recovery phase
If you are searching for genuine and reliable Fistula Treatment in Pune, Kaizen Fistula Care is here to guide you through every step, from diagnosis to full recovery.
How Much Does the VAAFT Procedure Cost in Pune?
The cost varies based on the complexity of the fistula, hospital facilities, and surgeon’s expertise. On average, the cost of VAAFT in Pune ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹1,20,000. For an accurate cost estimate, book a consultation with Dr. Samrat Jankar at Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic.
Book Your Fistula Treatment:
Book your Fistula Treatment with our best Fistula Surgeon in Pune, India. Dr. Samrat Jankar is qualified and expert fistula specialist in Pune at Kaizen Gastro Care, Pune offer trusted medical advice and expert private care for a wide range of digestive disorders, including Piles, Fissure, and Fistula. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Fistula specialist in Pune, India if you’re experiencing symptoms of Piles, Itching in the Ano region. For more information about our comprehensive treatment options, or to request an appointment with the best Fistula specialist in Pune call 97 6363 5252
Frequently Asked Questions
No, VAAFT is performed under anesthesia, and post-surgical pain is minimal.
The surgery typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity.
VAAFT has a high success rate of over 85-90%, with low recurrence.
Most patients recover within a week and can resume daily activities with precautions
In rare cases of recurrence, a second procedure may be required.
Most patients resume work within a few days post-surgery, depending on their recovery.
Yes. VAAFT is a minimally invasive technique with a faster recovery rate and lower risk of complications compared to traditional fistula surgery.
VAAFT is ideal for most complex and recurrent anal fistulas, but Dr. Samrat Jankar will choose the best treatment option based on your condition.
Do you have any questions related to fistula, then don’t hesitate to ask with our expert.? Do you need any help?