Efficacy of Ligation of Inter-sphincteric Fistula Tract technique for fistula-in-ano: A prospective observational study

Abstract

Background: Fistula-in-ano is one of the commonest diseases presented to the surgical outpatient department that affects the patient physically and psychologically. As the disease is known for recurrence, the ideal technique for fistula repair is still undetermined. Materials and Methods:We hereby report 85 patients diagnosed clinically and radiologically having fistula-inano who underwent the Ligation of Inter-sphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) procedure at a tertiary care center. Results: The median time for the LIFT procedure was 32.5 minutes (range 25-40 minutes), and the median time taken for healing of the wound was around eight weeks. The majority of patients (95.4%) had no recurrence, and only 4 (4.6%) had a recurrence on follow-up within one year. None of the patients presented with stool or flatus incontinence. Conclusion: The LIFT technique can be the preferred treatment option for fistula-in-ano that are having simple straight tract, single opening lying posteriorly, and having either trans-sphincteric or inter-sphincteric variety with lower complication rates and preserving continent anal sphincter allowing patients to return early to their routine activities normal daily activities