Features and Presentations of Chronic Anal Fissure: A Study of 67 Cases

Background: Anal fissure, a longitudinal tear in the anoderm below the dentate line, is one of the most common benign anorectal conditions. The severe pain experienced during defecation, along with associated emotional stress, can significantly impact daily activities. As a result, it may considerably reduce an individual’s quality of life. Objective: To assess the features and presentations of chronic anal fissure. Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Surgery, Jamalpur Medical College, Jamalpur, Bangladesh during the period from January 2023 to December 2023. A total of 67 patients with chronic anal fissures were enrolled purposively. Data were analyzed using MS Office tools. Results: The ages of the respondents ranged from 23 to 60 years, with a mean of 39.14 ± 8.77 years. Males comprised 52.0% and females 48.0%, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.08:1. Symptom duration varied from 1 to 13 years, averaging 5.92 ± 3.88 years. Anal pain was universal while bleeding, constipation, and skin tags occurred in 89.6%, 74.6%, and 64.2%, respectively. Posterior midline fissures were most common (64.2%). Conclusion: Chronic anal fissure predominantly affects middle-aged individuals, with a slight male predominance. Patients commonly experience prolonged symptoms, with anal pain as a universal complaint. Bleeding, constipation, and skin tags are frequent. The posterior midline is the most affected site, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent complications.