Abscess and Fistula

Perianal abscesses and fistulae originate from the same infection that affects the anal sinuses, but they are two separate conditions.  Abscesses appear under the skin or above it, and are characterized by pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.  Walking or sitting may also prove to be difficult with an abscess.  There is a 50% chance that an abscess will develop into a fistula, which is a tunnel that connects the infected anal glands with the abscess.  Symptoms of an anal fistula are the release of pus or blood from the anus associated with pain in the area.  Bowel movements may also prove to be painful when a fistula Is present.  MRI or CT Scans are commonly used to determine the presence of an anal abscess or fistula.  Treatments for anal abscesses and fistulae include draining the abscess, and surgery is necessary in most cases. 

Programs + Services

Gastroenterology + Nutrition

The Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition Division at Tufts Medical Center in Boston provides expert GI diagnosis and treatment for children.
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General Surgery

A certified Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, Tufts Medical Center in Boston has top surgeons specializing in a number of pediatric issues including diseases of the lungs, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, spleen and lymph nodes.
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Doctors + Care Team

Walter J. Chwals, MD, FACS, FAAP, FCCM
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Walter J. Chwals, MD, FACS, FAAP, FCCM

Accepting New Patients

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Title(s): Chief of Pediatric Surgery; Pediatric Surgeon-in-Chief; Director, Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Institute; Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine
Department(s): Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Trauma
Appt. Phone: 617-636-5025
Fax #: 617-636-8122

Pediatric surgery, pediatric trauma, congenital disorders requiring surgery in newborns, GI inflammatory diseases in children, pediatric tumors (surgical oncology), nutrition in post-surgical neonates, pediatric obesity and minimally invasive surgery

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Carl-Christian A. Jackson, MD
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Carl-Christian A. Jackson, MD

Accepting New Patients

Virtual Appointments Available

Title(s): Pediatric Surgeon; Assistant Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine
Department(s): Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Trauma
Appt. Phone: 617-636-5025
Fax #: 617-626-8122

Pediatric surgery, pediatric trauma, minimally invasive surgery, congenital chest wall deformities, neonatal surgery

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Khoa D. Tran, MD
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Khoa D. Tran, MD

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Accepting New Patients

Virtual Appointments Available

Online Scheduling Available

Title(s): Pediatric Gastroenterologist; Assistant Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine
Department(s): Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
Appt. Phone: 617-636-3266
Fax #: 617-636-8718

Neurogastroenterology, motility, general pediatric gastroenterology, chronic constipation, gastro-esophageal reflux/pH studies, other general pediatric GI and nutrition disorders

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