The results of high-position anal fistula treatment using the LIFT (ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract) procedure. A retrospective, single-center study.

Abstract

Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is an established method for the treatment of high- and lowposition anal fistulas. Numerous meta-analyses confirm the high healing success rate with simultaneous low risk of sphincter damage. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of the treatment of patients with high-position and complex transsphincteric fistulas using the LIFT procedure. Twelve patients (M - 9, F - 3) aged between 28 and 69 years (median age 50) undergoing surgery for complex and high-position transsphincteric anal fistulas, either primary or recurrent, in the period of 2016 to 2020, were included in the study. The inclusion criterion consisted in the presence of a fistula encompassing more than 30% of the anal sphincter volume as confirmed by transrectal ultrasound. All patients were subjected to surgical treatment by means of the LIFT procedure. The follow-up period was between 6 and 51 months (average of 16 months). Follow-up visits were held at 1 and 4 weeks as well as 6 months after surgery. During the postoperative period, data were collected on the curative effect or recurrence of transsphincteric fistulas (the primary endpoint) and on the presence of postoperative complications (the secondary endpoint). A total of 10 patients (83.3%) were healed, with 2 patients (16.7%) experiencing complications as manifested by recurring intersphincteric fistula. Full recurrence of the disease was observed in 2 patients (16.7%). Slight disturbances of continence were observed in 2 out of 12 patients (16.7%).