GLOSSARY

Glossary

Acute anal fissure – present for less than 6 weeks, superficial and with well-demarcated edges.

Anorectal – relating to, or involving both the anus and rectum.

Chronic fissures – tends to persist for 6 weeks or more, and is wider and deeper than acute anal fissures.

Fissure – a break or slit in tissue usually at the junction of skin and mucous membrane.

Glyceryl trinitrate (also known as nitroglycerin) – acts by dilating the arteries, increasing blood flow and improving blood supply to the heart. Glyceryl trinitrate ointment is the main ingredient in RECTOGESIC 4mg/g and alleviates the pain of anal fissure by relaxing the muscles of the anal sphincter, reducing anal pressure, and improving blood flow to the site of the fissure.¹

Nitric oxide – acts as a vasodilator (blood vessel relaxant), it controls blood flow to tissues.²

Topical anaesthetics – used to numb the skin and reduce pain.³