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Anal Fissure C0016167

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

A tear in the anal canal lining causing pain during bowel movements. It affects adults and often heals with stool softeners, dietary fiber, and topical creams; surgery is rarely needed.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
K76.9
ICD-11
DA00.0
Body system
gastrointestinal
Severity
mild
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Abdominal pain or nausea

(gastrointestinal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Varies

Rectal pain during defecation

(gastrointestinal)

Bright red blood on stool

(gastrointestinal)

Anal sphincter spasm

(gastrointestinal)

Anal fissure infection

(gastrointestinal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Conservative Fissure Management

Sitz baths, proper hygiene practices, and avoiding straining to allow natural healing of the anal fissure.

lifestyle
2

GI disease management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
3

Topical Sphincter-Relaxing Agents

Application of topical medications that relax the internal anal sphincter muscle to promote fissure healing and reduce pain.

medication

Additional treatment options

High-Fiber Dietary Modification

Increased consumption of fiber-rich foods and adequate hydration to soften stool and minimize straining during bowel movements.

dietary

Warm Water Sitz Baths

Regular soaking in warm water to relax the anal sphincter, improve blood flow, and promote healing of the fissure.

physical_therapy

Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy

Minor surgical procedure to reduce anal sphincter pressure by dividing a small portion of the internal sphincter muscle.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Anal Fissure C0016167?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Stewart DB Sr, Gaertner R, Glasgow S, et al. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Anal Fissures. Dis Colon Rectum. 2021;64(5):528-542.

guideline2021
2

Nelson RL, Yadav P, Akdamar K, et al. Chronic Anal Fissure: A Comprehensive Review of Medical and Surgical Management. Gastroenterology Report. 2022;10(3):215-228.

review2022
3

Gandomkar H, Mehrabi S, Vafaei SA, et al. Topical Nifedipine versus Nitroglycerin for Anal Fissure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Int J Colorectal Dis. 2023;38(1):45-58.

meta_analysis2023
4

Bhardwaj R, Singh S, Gupta A, et al. Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy versus Botulinum Toxin Injection in Chronic Anal Fissure: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial. Colorectal Dis. 2020;22(11):1539-1547.

clinical_trial2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Anal Fissure C0016167. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy