Does the severity of anal fissure trigger constipation?

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the severity of anal fissure on the occurrence of constipation. Patients and methods: Between January 2021 and February 2023, a total of 141 patients (66 males, 75 females; median age: 3 years; range, 3 to 6 years) who were diagnosed with anal fissure according to the Rome IV criteria in our clinic were retrospectively analyzed. The number of anal fissures was rated as mild if it was 1-2, moderate if it was 3-4, and severe if it was 5 or more. The patients' ages, sex, number of fissures, and the number of patients with constipation complaints were recorded. Results: Of a total of 141 anal fissure patients, 15 complained of constipation. The number of patients with moderate and severe fissures who experienced constipation was found to be significantly higher than those who did not. However, the constipation problem in patients with mild fissure was significantly less than in those without anal fissure. Conclusion: There is a highly significant positive relationship between anal fissure severity and constipation. The risk of moderate and severe anal fissure increases the likelihood of triggering constipation.