Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
He reviews your history of anal infections, prior surgeries or injuries, and checks for conditions like Crohn's disease.
He inspects the skin around the anus for any external openings, swelling, or signs of draining.
Performed when inflammatory bowel disease is suspected, to evaluate for Crohn's or other colonic conditions.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
A perianal fistula is a small tunnel between the anal canal and the skin near the anus, most often forming after an infected anal gland drains to the surface.
Most fistulas start from an infection in an anal gland. Other risk factors include Crohn's disease, prior anal surgery or injury, tuberculosis, diverticulitis, smoking, and diabetes.
Healing typically takes four to six weeks, though recovery time varies based on fistula complexity and the chosen procedure.
Yes. Dr. Pothuri combines medical therapies (antibiotics, biologics) with minimally invasive procedures to address Crohn's-related fistulas.
If you have persistent pain, swelling, redness, or discharge near the anus-or a history of recurring abscesses-seek medical evaluation promptly.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, managed with pain medication. Modern techniques like laser surgery and the LIFT procedure minimize pain and speed recovery.
