My husband has had surgery 4 xs for an anal fistula and will need a 5th?

Does it normally take 5 surgeries to cure an anal fistula? This has been going on for months and he is no better than he was before the first surgery. I told him to see another doctor. He says the doctor is going by the book to treat him. However, I feel another opinion in another county would be helpful. Even if the second opinion concurs with the first doc. treatment, a second opinion would be worth the peace of mind. In addition, has anyone had any luck with the Cleveland Clinic and anorectal surgery from the dept. there?;

Thanks for those that replied so quickly! I forgot to add that the fistula never heals up, hasn't healed up. It doesn't heal up and come back, it just never heals up period. None of the surgeries have worked at all. It has been six months. There has been either a buildup of infection/blood or drainage for six months! I am beside myself seeing him suffer like that and beginning to wonder if he doesn't have cancer or something and that is why he won't heal?

Being in surgery myself, I can tell you that it is very common for fistulas to reoccur and need multiple surgeries! They are dreaded little buggers. But do what your husband is most comfortable with.

I'm with you. It's time for a second opinion. That's one area you don't want to mess around with. I just met a woman who is taking radiation for Anal cancer. They first thought she had a Skin tag. I have fistulas too. Luckily mine heal up within a few days. They can be very uncomfortable and worrisome. Get the second opinion.

Anal fistula is known to be notorious for recurrence, I think the surgeon should have informed you. If you try at another centre, it may convince you, but I regret to say that proly no one will be able to guarantee a radical cure.
Sorry I couldn't help you, best of luck for your hubby!