Bhagandar (fistula-in-ano) in Sushruta Samhita and Vagbhat

Abstract

Fistula-in-ano is an abnormal tract with an external opening in the perianal area that is communicating with the rectum in the high anal fistula or anal canal in the low anal fistula by an internal opening. Sushruta, the great ancient surgeon, described a disease Bhagandar in Nidan sthan. There are different types of Bhagandar mentioned in Sushruta nidan sthan which still come to notice during practice. Some rare Bhagandar types like Bahirmukh and Antarmukh also came to the notice of surgeons. The treatment for Bhagandar is a big challenge due to its site. Acharya Sushruta also mentioned different types of incision for surgery of Bhagandar which are still practiced in modern science.