Leading colorectal surgeon sheds light on anal conditions

Information regarding the treatment of anal fissures, anal fistulas and haemorrhoids does not often get a good airing despite the agony and embarrassment that can be caused by these common conditions.

Colorectal conditions can have a highly debilitating affect on well-being, cause huge concern and can be dangerous. For information on these important and common issues, the Royal Marsden Hospital colorectal expert, Mr Anthony Antoniou, provides an excellent service in the first instance by answering patients' questions such as the following in plain English:

For a full list of questions and answers please click here.
 

A small (but intensely painful) tear in the skin of the anus, usually due to passing a hard stool. Full medical glossary
Not dangerous, usually applied to a tumour that is not malignant. Full medical glossary
The basic unit of all living organisms. Full medical glossary
An abnormal channel between two parts of the body, for example between a hollow organ and another hollow organ, or between the inside and the outside of the body. Full medical glossary
Swollen blood vessel in the lining of the anus, also known as piles. Full medical glossary
Swollen blood vessels around the anus, also known as piles. Full medical glossary
Around the anus. Full medical glossary
Relating to the rectum, the lowest part of the bowel leading to the anus. Full medical glossary