Anal fistulas are a highly distressing condition,painful to have, hard to cure, and usually recurring despite treatment. Patients are also frequently burdened by the fear of surgical complications, such as fecal incontinence or permanent damage to the anal sphincters. From a clinical standpoint, Fistula treatment in ayurveda offers a rational, non-surgical alternative through the application of Kshara Sutra. This specialized para-surgical procedure is designed to excise the fistulous tract while simultaneously promoting deep-tissue healing without the extensive tissue trauma associated with conventional surgery.
Under the expert guidance of Dr. Saji D’Souza and Dr. Ansy D’Souza at KSAC Hospitals, anorectal and gastro-intestinal conditions like Bhagandara (Fistula-in-ano) are treated through a structured, hospital-based approach focused on lasting relief. KSAC is also known for treating piles (hemorrhoids) without surgery, using specialized Ayurvedic techniques that help reduce pain, control bleeding, and prevent recurrence. The aim is to provide safe, effective treatment while ensuring patient comfort and natural healing.
Is Kshara Sutra an Effective Alternative to Fistula Surgery?
Kshara Sutra is a gold-standard Ayurvedic medico-technical intervention involving a pH-graded, medicated linen thread. Unlike a simple ligature, this thread is coated multiple times with Snuhi latex (Euphorbia neriifolia), Apamarga Kshara (Achyranthes aspera), and Haridra (Curcuma longa).
When inserted into the fistulous track, the thread performs three simultaneous clinical actions:
-
Curettage: It debrides the unhealthy granulation tissue and infectious debris within the track.
-
Chemical Cauterization: The alkaline nature of the thread chemically dissolves the tough, fibrous walls of the fistula.
-
Healing: The medicinal properties of the coating stimulate healthy tissue regeneration from the base of the track upwards.
This "cut-and-heal" mechanism ensures that the tract closes gradually, allowing the surrounding muscles to remain intact, which effectively eliminates the risk of incontinence associated with traditional fistulectomy. In the context of Fistula treatment in ayurveda, this technique provides a controlled medical excision.

Why Do Conventional Surgical Approaches for Fistula Often Fail?
Anal fistulas represent a significant clinical challenge due to their complex anatomy and proximity to the anal sphincter muscles. Conventional surgical interventions, such as fistulectomy or fistulotomy, carry inherent risks, most notably the potential for accidental sphincter damage. Furthermore, the high vascularity and bacterial load of the anorectal region often complicate post-surgical wound healing, leading to a high recurrence rate. Patients frequently present to KSAC Hospitals with "failed" surgical histories, seeking Fistula treatment in ayurveda that preserves anatomical integrity while ensuring the complete obliteration of the infected tract.
Modern Medical View: What is the Pathology of Anal Fistula?
From a modern pathological perspective, an anal fistula is an abnormal epithelialized track connecting the anal canal to the perianal skin.
-
Anatomy: The tract usually originates from an infected crypt gland in the intersphincteric space.
-
Pathology: Chronic inflammation leads to a persistent drainage pathway for pus or fecal matter.
-
Diagnostics: Clinical evaluation is supplemented by objective imaging. At KSAC Hospitals, MRI Fistulography is utilized to map the primary tract and identify secondary extensions, which is a prerequisite for successful Fistula treatment in ayurveda.
Ayurvedic View: How Do Doshas Affect Bhagandara (Fistula)?
In hospital-based Ayurvedic practice, a fistula is classified as Bhagandara. This condition involves a profound imbalance of the body's internal systems:
-
Doshas (Principles): It is primarily a Pitta-Kapha dominant disorder where aggravated Pitta (metabolic heat) causes suppuration (pus formation) and Kapha (mucoid principle) leads to the chronic, discharging tract.
-
Dhatus (Tissues): The infection primarily invades the Mamsa (muscle) and Rakta (blood) tissues.
-
Srotas (Channels): There is a blockage (Sanga) in the Annavaha Srotas (digestive channels).
-
Agni (Metabolic Fire): Impaired Mandagni (low digestive fire) allows Ama (toxins) to accumulate. Effective Fistula treatment in ayurveda must address these systemic imbalances.

When Should You Seek Specialist Care?
-
Persistent or recurrent discharge of pus, blood, or fecal matter from an opening near the anus.
-
Localized swelling, redness, and throbbing pain that intensifies during bowel movements or sitting.
-
History of recurrent perianal abscesses despite repeated drainage.
-
Fever or systemic chills associated with perianal discomfort.
-
Evidence of a complex or high-reaching tract on an MRI or ultrasound report.
-
Previous failed surgical attempts where the fistula has recurred.
“These indicators suggest the need for specialist evaluation rather than continued symptomatic management.”
Patients with persistent or worsening symptoms should consider hospital-based Ayurvedic evaluation at KSAC in Hyderabad.
What is the KSAC Hospital Protocol for Fistula?

At KSAC Hospitals, the approach to fistula is strictly diagnostic-first and physician-led. The protocol prioritizes the Kshara Sutra technique within a sterile, monitored hospital environment. For those seeking Fistula treatment in ayurveda, the workflow is as follows:
-
Diagnostic Mapping: Before intervention, patients undergo MRI Fistulography to determine the exact relationship between the tract and the sphincter muscles.
-
Hospital Monitoring: Treatment is conducted under medical supervision, ensuring that systemic health and inflammatory markers are monitored.
-
Physician-Led Decisions: The senior medical team determines the frequency of thread changes based on the observed rate of tissue healing.
-
Safety Assessment: Every patient is screened for comorbidities like Diabetes (which affects healing) to ensure the protocol is modified for optimal outcomes.
Important Note: “It must be strictly understood that specific Ayurvedic therapeutic treatments are determined solely upon proper diagnosis of the condition. All procedures are administered only upon the specific recommendation of the doctors at KSAC Hospitals.”
Clinical Evidence: Can Ayurveda Effectively Close a Fistula Track?
Clinical data from KSAC Hospitals indicates that the Kshara Sutra method provides a dual action of debridement and healing. Observations show that the alkaline coating of the thread maintains a pH that is unfavorable for bacterial growth, which significantly reduces the risk of post-procedural infection. Representative hospital patterns show that the recurrence rate for complex cases of Fistula treatment in ayurveda is substantially lower than that of standard surgical excision, primarily because the thread ensures the tract heals from the base upwards.
Why Choose KSAC for Fistula treatment in ayurveda?
Choosing KSAC Hospitals ensures that the patient receives evidence-based ayurveda in Hyderabad within a regulated, NABH-accredited framework.
-
Diagnostic Integration: MRI imaging is used to accurately map and monitor the fistulous tract, ensuring precise assessment of healing rather than relying solely on subjective symptoms. Clinical examination remains an important part of tracking recovery and preventing recurrence.
-
Specialized Expertise: The anorectal department focuses on complex cases that have been deemed "hopeless" or "high-risk" by conventional surgeons.
-
Banjara Hills Location: The facility provides a premium, 50-bedded tertiary care environment for inpatient recovery in the heart of Hyderabad.
-
Legacy of Trust:With over 25 years of continuous clinical practice, KSAC Hospitals is a trusted name in Hyderabad’s healthcare landscape, known for physician-led, accountable Ayurvedic care. For eligible patients, the CMS relief fund may be accessible for life-saving or chronic medical care involving Fistula treatment in ayurveda.

What Can a Patient Expect in the First 5–7 Days?
The first week of specialized Kshara Sutra therapy involves significant physiological shifts as the body begins the healing process.
Days 1–3
-
Heaviness in the pelvic and anorectal region.
-
Mild fatigue as the body redirects metabolic energy toward tissue repair.
-
Digestive changes due to prescribed internal medications aimed at balancing Agni.
-
A sense of mental calm or slight dullness following the initiation of therapy.
Days 4–5
-
Reduced stiffness and localized inflammation around the opening.
-
Improved mobility during daily activities and walking.
-
Better clarity in bowel movements and reduced strain.
Days 6–7
-
Functional improvement in sitting and performing daily tasks.
-
Improved sleep quality as localized discomfort subsides.
-
Reduced dependency on external pain-relief medications.
“Individual responses vary depending on severity, chronicity, and overall health status.”
Conclusion

Successful Fistula treatment in ayurveda requires more than symptomatic relief; it requires the mechanical and chemical obliteration of the infected tract. By combining the precision of modern MRI diagnostics with the time-tested efficacy of Kshara Sutra, KSAC Hospitals provides a clinical alternative to invasive surgery that prioritizes anatomical safety and long-term recovery. Financial planning is supported through insurance affordability options for NABH-accredited inpatient care.
Important Note: “It must be strictly understood that specific Ayurvedic therapeutic treatments are determined solely upon proper diagnosis of the condition. All procedures are administered only upon the specific recommendation of the doctors at KSAC Hospitals.”
For patients seeking Ayurvedic treatment for fistula in Hyderabad, consult KSAC Hospitals, Banjara Hills. Under the care of Dr. Saji D’Souza and Dr. Ansy D’Souza, fistula (Bhagandara) is treated with a hospital-based Ayurvedic protocol. Book an appointment with our specialists today.
