Effectiveness of ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) in the management of fistulas in ano

Abstract

Background: Fistula in ano is an abnormal connection between the epithelized surface of anal canal and usually the perianal skin. It is a benign treatable lesion of rectum and anal canal. Crypto glandular infection accounts for about ninety percent of the cases. The estimated prevalence of an anal fistula is 12 to 28/1000000 of the population per year with male to female ratio 1.8:1. Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract is a new sphincter saving method with good result in the management of anal fistula. The aim of study was to evaluate the effectiveness and functional outcomes of the ligation of intersphinteric fistula tract (LIFT).Methods: This prospective study includes sixteen patients who were operated for fistulas in ano at Bundelkhand Medical College and Associated Hospital, Sagar from January 2015 to June 2017. Patients above the age of 20 years, proved cases of fistulas in ano without co-morbid conditions and no previous surgical intervention were included in the study. Patients presenting with fistulas from another source such as crohn’s disease, tuberculosis, anal cancer and recurrent fistulas were excluded. A detailed history, clinical presentation, digital rectal examination, anal ultrasound and routine investigations were done in all cases.Results: In the present study most of the patients were male and presents with perianal discharge. The diagnosis is made by clinical history, per rectal examination and anal ultrasonography. All the sixteen patients with fistula in ano underwent ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT). The patients were followed for a period of three months. Most of the cases (87.5%) healed within 4-6 weeks. The recurrence of fistula occurs in four cases (25%). Recurrence is due to infection and technical error in the procedures. There were no deaths in the study.Conclusions: The LIFT technique proved to be safe and effective in the treatment of fistula in ano.