### Patient: Hi doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort and pain around my anal area. The area has been red and swollen for a while now.
### Doctor: It sounds like you might have an anal fistula. In order to diagnose this, I'll need to perform a rectal examination and a pelvis exam. We may also need to perform a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to get a closer look. Depending on the severity of the fistula, we may need to perform other lower GI therapeutic procedures such as incision and drainage or a colonoscopy and biopsy. Additionally, wound care management will be necessary to promote healing.