The Use of Electronic Bidets Compared to Water Rinsing After Surgery for Anal Fistula or Haemorrhoidal Disease: a Pilot Study

There is still much to discover in the field of proctological postoperative care. There has already been some, albeit very little, research about its use post-haemorrhoidectomy as well as its possible effect on anal fissures, but no articles to date have been written about the use of bidets in the treatment of anal fistula or after surgery for fissures. This lack of research is evident in the guidelines written about proctological problems. The guidelines about wound rinsing after proctological surgery are based on expert opinion instead of on research and they don't mention the use of bidets at all.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients will undergo fistulotomy or sphincter-sparing surgery for AF or haemorrhoidec-tomy for HD * 18 years or older * Able to speak and read Dutch or French * Patients must have a power outlet within 3m of their toilet or they need to be able to use an extension cable Exclusion Criteria: * Systemic diseases with perianal impact * Altered perianal sensation (to prevent burns because of the warm water) * Inflammatory bowel disease * Chronic dermatological conditions * AIDS * Hepatitis C * Patients under immunosuppression after a solid organ or stem cell transplantation * Heart failure * Kidney failure with eGFR under 60ml/min * Current malignancy * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * The use of a bidet at home before the start of the study