Chronic Anal Fissure Research Articles

Comparison of The Postoperative Outcomes of Surgical Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy and Botulinum Toxin Injection in Patients Presenting With Chronic Anal Fissure At CMH, Rawalpindi

Objective: To compare the postoperative outcomes in Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy Group and in Botulinum toxin injection Group in patients managed for chronic anal fissure. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Surgery, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Aug 2021 to Feb 2022. Methodology: All patients of either gender, aged 30 to 70 years, who had presented to CMH, were included in this study. Block randomization was done to allocate half of them to Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy and half to Botulinum toxin injection. Patients in both Groups were followed for four weeks to assess and compare various short and long term post-surgical outcomes. Results: There were 82 patients in total with 41 in each treatment arm. In the Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy Group, 35 85(37%) of the patients reported postoperative pain relief at 24 hours, 39(95.12%) patients healed, only 2(4.88%) patients had a recurrence. In the Botulinum toxin Group, 29(70.73%) reported postoperative pain relief at 24 hours, 35(85.37%) patients healed, whereas 6(4.63%) had a recurrence. There was no statistical difference in any parameter between either Group. Conclusion: Both methods did not show any statistically significant difference in post-operative outcomes thus other parameters like patient’s choice, cost and expertise may be considered in treatment of chronic anal fissure.

Treatment of anal fissures using the new TRPM8 receptor therapy - own experience.

<b>Introduction:</b> Anal fissure, a longitudinal or oval crack in the anal anoderm above the dentate line, is one of the most common diseases of the anal area. The following article shows the effectiveness of anal fissure treatment based on our own experience, using new receptor therapy in the form of Procto-Zac Memethol Barrier Spray [(1R,2S,5R)-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol, sodium hydrogen carbonate, 7-(dimethylamino) phenothiazin-3-ylidene]- dimethylazanium; chloride, 1,2-propanediol, purified water], preparation containing soluble fiber and oral probiotic.<b>Aim:</b> The aim of the following article is to present our experience and observations in the conservative treatment of acute and chronic anal fissure using Procto-Zac Memethol Barrier Spray and preparations containing soluble fiber and oral probiotic.<b>Material and methods:</b> The study included a group of 120 patients with anal fissure between 18 and 45 years of age. Each patient in the group received a therapy consisting of Procto-Zac Memethol Barrier Spray (8 sprays once a day, 2 packages) and preparation containing fiber and oral probiotic. A high-fiber, gluten-free and lactose-free diet was also recommended. A follow-up was carried out in our clinic after 4 and 8 weeks. If the symptoms do not disappear completely, also after 3 months from the start of treatment.<b>Results:</b> Complete relief of symptoms was achieved in 62 patients after 4 weeks of treatment. After 8 weeks, complete relief of symptoms was achieved in another 49 people. In 6 people, after 3 months of treatment, the symptoms were partially relieved, but the anal fissure was not completely healed. Three people did not come for a follow-up visit. In 20 patients, skin burning around the anus was observed during the above therapy.The above symptoms did not require discontinuation of Procto-Zac Memethol Barrier Spray therapy and disappeared after completion of treatment. No other side effects of the preparations used were found.<b>Conclusions:</b> According to our observations, the use of new TRPM8 receptor therapy MemeThol Barrier Spray, a preparation containing soluble fiber and oral probiotic, turned out to be an effective method of treating anal fissure. In the future, it is advisable to conduct further studies, including multicenter studies, to assess the full tolerability and effectiveness of the described therapy.

Effectiveness of combined botulinum toxin and fissurectomy on chronic anal fissures - a systematic review.

Anal fissures are a debilitating benign condition, thought to be due to the hypertonicity of the internal anal sphincter resulting in localized ischaemia inhibiting healing. There are several surgical and non-surgical treatment options for chronic anal fissures. Clinical practice surveys report a trend toward sphincter-sparing options, reserving the more successful treatment of lateral sphincterotomy, with an incontinence rate up to 10%, for refractory fissures. A search of MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and EMBASE for studies assessing sphincter-sparing treatment with botulinum toxin and fissurectomy was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Outcomes assessed included healing rate, persistence, recurrence, re-intervention and incontinence rates. Fifteen non-randomized studies assessed 978 patients managed with botulinum toxin and fissurectomy. The mean age was 40.8 years with a female predominance of 58.9%. Healing rate was reported on 14 of the 15 studies, with a healing rate of 81% (95% CI:0.67, 0.90). Persistence rate was reported as 15% (95% CI:0.07, 0.28) and a recurrence rate of 6% (95% CI: 0.01, 0.19). Re-intervention was required in 8% of patients with 55.1% requiring a repeat dose of botulinum toxin with or without fissurectomy. Incontinence appears to be transient with studies reporting a rate of 1% with median long-term follow up 23 months (range: 5-60 months). Combination fissurectomy and botulinum toxin is a safe and viable sphincter sparing treatment option, with moderate success rate and negligible complications. Randomized controlled trials are required to further strengthen the evidence for its use in chronic anal fissures.

Is chemodenervation with incobotulinumtoxinA an alternative to invasive chronic anal fissure treatments?

BackgroundBotulinum toxin type A is currently strongly recommended for the treatment of anal fissures (AFs). However, there is still no consensus on dosage or injection technique. This study provides further efficacy and safety evidence in a 2-year follow-up.MethodProspective, open-label, single-arm, single-center study carried out in adult patients with AFs non-responsive to previous treatments. Patients were treated with incobotulinumtoxinA (incoBoNT/A) injected in both laterals and posterior intersphincteric groove. Healing rate at 2 years was the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included internal anal sphincter pressures, incontinence, and safety.ResultsA total of 49 patients were treated with a mean incoBoNT/A dose of 40.5 U (spread across three locations). Healing rate at 2 years was 83.9% with a 24.5% of recurrence throughout the study. Only 7 patients (14.3%) reported adverse events (AEs) that were mild and temporary. Mean reduction in anal resting pressure was -9.1 mmHg at 3 months (p = 0.001). Mean reduction in voluntary squeeze pressure was -27.5 mmHg at 3 months (p < 0.001). Mean pain perception measured with a visual analog scale decreased by -6.5 points at 2 years (p < 0.001). There was an incontinence increase at 1 month of 1.3 points (p = 0.006), but baseline values were restored at 6 months.ConclusionWe present results that support the use of incoBoNT/A as a second line for AFs that do not respond to ointment therapy. IncoBoNT/A injection is a less invasive treatment that should be considered before surgery due to its efficacy and its safety which includes no permanent impairment.Trial registrationISRCTN90354265; Registered on 16th February 2024. Retrospectively registered.

Drugs in focus: Botulinum toxin in the therapy of gastrointestinal disorders in children.

What is Known Botulinum toxin (BoNT) causes muscle relaxation by inhibiting acetylcholine release from presynaptic motor neurons at the neuromuscular junction.What is New In children with achalasia, BoNT can be considered only in patients in whom rapid weight gain is important to improve surgical outcomes. BoNT has been suggested for treating cricopharyngeal achalasia and delayed gastric emptying. Anal achalasia and constipation after Hirschsprung disease corrective surgery are very promising indications for BoNT use. In selected children with resistant type of functional constipation and chronic anal fissure, BoNT is a viable option for treating.

Effectiveness of 0.3 % nifedipine gel combined with 2.0 % lidocaine and BTA 80 U in treatment of chronic anal fissure. Pilot randomized study. Preliminary results

AIM: to improve the results of chronic anal fissure treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: the study included 22 patients randomized by random numbers generation method into 2 groups. Eleven patients were included in main group and were treated with 0.3 % nifedipine + 2.0 % lidocaine gel, 11 patients of the control group received injections of botulinum toxin A into the internal anal sphincter at a dose of 80 U (BTA 80). RESULTS: by day 30, there was a decrease of maximal resting pressure in anal canal (MRPAC) in both the main and control groups [p = 0.015 and p = 0.004, respectively] and the average resting pressure in anal canal (ARPAC) [p = 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively]. There was no difference between the groups in pain severity both after stool and during the day (p = 0.5 and p = 0.6, respectively). On day 60, the defect was epithelized in 6/11 (54.6 %) patients of the study group and in 9/11 (81.8 %) patients of the BTA 80 group [p = 0.36], respectively. The reason of treatment failure in 4/11 (36.4 %) patients of the main group and 2/11 (18.2 %) patients of the control group was a preserved internal sphincter spasm. It was found that these patients used a lower amount of the drug product — 2.2 (1.8; 2.5) mg/day compared to 2.4 (1.9; 2.7) mg/day in other patients. On the day 30 after surgical treatment, complaints about gas incontinence were registered in 1/11 (9.1 %) patients of the main group and 1/11 (9.1 %) patients of the control group [p = 1]. Such a complication as external hemorrhoid thrombosis occurred only in 1/11 (9.1 %) patients in the BTA 80 group [p = 0.87]. CONCLUSION: the study results show that gel containing 0.3 % nifedipine and 2 % lidocaine produces an effect on the tone of the internal sphincter comparable to BTA. However, the lack of accurate dosage of the drug product and/or low patient compliance reduce the effectiveness of treatment and make the use of BTA preferable for medical relaxation of the internal sphincter.

Tailored lateral internal sphincterotomy (T-LIS) for chronic anal fissure by LigaSure Small Jaws©: a comparison with other non-conservative treatments for anal fissures.

An anal fissure is a small tear in the thin tissue (mucosa) that lines the anus. Anal fissures typically cause pain and bleeding with bowel movements. The cause is not fully understood, but low intake of dietary fiber may be a risk factor. Chronic anal fissure was defined as a split or ulceration in the posterior or anterior anoderm for at least 6weeks: have distinct anatomic features such as muscle fibers visible in the wound. Anal fissures can be attributed to constipation or repeated straining: a hard fecal bolus cut the mucosa of anal canal that is relatively thigh at sphincter level management and optimal treatment of the disease is controversial. Many studies recommend conservative and medical treatment modalities as the initial treatment options since they are non-invasive and do not have risks such as anal sphincter injury. Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is considered the gold standard for treatment of chronic anal fissure. Nonetheless, anal incontinence is one of the worrisome complications of LIS. Fissurectomy is another option among those techniques which address the issues with LIS. LigaSure© (Valleylab) is a bipolar electrosurgical device designed to deliver high current and very low voltage to tissue. It monitors tissue impedance between the jaws of the instrument and continuously adjusts the delivery of energy. The use of LigaSure Small Jaw was never reported for anal fissures in literature. We have applied the use of this device to a group of patients complaining for chronic anal fissure in order to verify if there is any advantage to perform it compared to traditional technique (blade, scissors, electrocautery).

A comparative study of the outcome of unilateral versus bilateral internal anal sphincterotomy in treatment of chronic anal fissure

Background: Gold standard treatment for chronic anal fissure is lateral internal sphincterotomy. Bilateral internal sphincterotomy (BIS) as a treatment option for chronic anal fissure has not been evaluated. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to compare the efficacy of unilateral versus bilateral internal anal sphincterotomy in treatment of chronic anal fissure. Materials and Methods: Study design: A prospective randomized comparative study. Study area: Patients coming to General Surgery outpatient department at College of Medicine and Sagore Dutta Hospital with chronic anal fissure. Study period: July 2022 to December 2023 (18 months). Sample Size: 100 patients. Study Group: Group A=Patients who had undergone unilateral internal sphincterotomy (UIS)=50 patients and Group B=Patients who had undergone BIS=50 patients. Results: 2 (4%) patients in Group A and 3 (6%) patients in Group B developed incontinence for flatus postoperatively. No patients in either group developed incontinence for stools. The Mean Fissure Healing Time (Mean±SD) (Weeks) post-sphincterotomy was 4.32±0.91339 in Group A and 2.66±0.65807 in Group B. There were 6 cases of recurrence in the unilateral sphincterotomy group. Second surgery was needed in 4 patients who underwent unilateral sphincterotomy. Conclusion: As compared to UIS, BIS results in a faster healing of chronic anal fissure, with no increase in incontinence, decreased pain score, and less recurrence rates.

Comparative Evaluation of Effects of Oral Diltiazem and Topical Diltiazem (2%) Ointment in the Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure: A Prospective Randomized Study.

Fissure-in-Ano is a common condition of the anorectal region. Most of the time, it is managed non-surgically. There are various drugs used for the treatment of anal fissures. Calcium channel blockers are one of them that reduce the tone of sphincter muscles. The present study compares the efficacy of oral diltiazem and topical 2% diltiazem ointment in patients with chronic anal fissures. Patients were randomized into two groups. Group A (n=25) received treatment in the form of oral diltiazem, while group B (n=25) received treatment in the form of 2% (weight/volume) diltiazem ointment for local application in addition to other conservative methods like sitz bath and stool softeners. Outcomes in the form of success of treatment and complications were assessed. Statistical analysis was done using MedCalc software version 14.0. P value of<0.05 was considered significant. The mean age of patients was 32.00±10.67 years in group A and 30.64±9.53 years in group B. Pain relief was significantly better in group B than in group A at the end of the first week (P=0.00018), but at the end of 6th week, no significant difference was observed. Fissure healing was more significant in group B than in group A after 6 weeks (P=0.0152). Local diltiazem ointment is a better option than oral diltiazem for anal fissures with respect to better outcomes and lesser complications.

Evaluation of LASER technique in treatment of Chronic anal fissure

Evaluation of LASER technique in treatment of Chronic anal fissure

Comparison of outcome of botulinum toxin injection with and without glyceryl trinitrate in chronic anal fissure in terms of post operative pain and healing.

To compare the outcome of botulinum toxin injection with and without glyceryl trinitrate with respect to postoperative pain and healing in the treatment of anal fissures. The prospective, comparative study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, from September 1, 2021, to August 31, 2022, and comprised adult chronic anal fissure patients of either gender. They were randomised using the lottery method into group A which received botulinum toxin injection, and group B which received botulinum toxin injection plus 1g of 0.2% topical glyceryl trinitrate cream. Post-operative pain was measured 24 hours after the procedure using the visual analogue scale. Healing was assessed by examining the wound for the appearance of granulation tissue 4 weeks post-procedure. Data was analysed using SPSS 26. Of the 88 patients, 44(50%) were in group A; 32(72.7%) males and 12(27.3%) females with mean age 33.91±14.8 years. There were 44(50%) patients in group B; 35(79.5%) males and 9(20.5%) females with mean age range 36.33±14.9 years. The mean postoperative pain at 24 hours in group A was 4.67±1.16 and it was 3.06±0.65 in group B (p=0.009). In group A, 23(69.7%) patients showed complete healing at 4 weeks compared to 30(90.9%) in group B (p=0.030). Botulinum toxin injection with glyceryl trinitrate could be considered as first line of treatment for chronic anal fissure in patients who refuse surgery and with previous sphincter surgery.

Efficacy and Safety of Murivenna anal infiltration Compared to Diltiazem topical application in Chronic Anal Fissure: Study Protocol for a Prospective Randomized Open-label Clinical Trial (Preprint)

Efficacy and Safety of Murivenna anal infiltration Compared to Diltiazem topical application in Chronic Anal Fissure: Study Protocol for a Prospective Randomized Open-label Clinical Trial (Preprint)

Belgian consensus guideline on the management of anal fissures.

Acute and chronic anal fissures are common proctological problems that lead to relatively high morbidity and frequent contacts with health care professionals. Multiple treatment options, both topical and surgical, are available, therefore evidence-based guidance is preferred. A Delphi consensus process was used to review the literature and create relevant statements on the treatment of anal fissures. These statements were discussed and modulated until sufficient agreement was reached. These guidelines were based on the published literature up to January 2023. Anal fissures occur equally in both sexes, mostly between the second and fourth decades of life. Diagnosis can be made based on cardinal symptoms and clinical examination. In case of insufficient relief with conservative treatment options, pharmacological sphincter relaxation is preferred. After 6-8 weeks of topical treatment, surgical options can be explored. Both lateral internal sphincterotomy as well as fissurectomy are well-established surgical techniques, both with specific benefits and risks. The current guidelines for the management of anal fissures include recommendations for the clinical evaluation of anal fissures, and their conservative, topical and surgical management.

Comparing Outcomes of Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy and Laser sphincterolysis in the Management of Chronic Anal Fissure

Comparing Outcomes of Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy and Laser sphincterolysis in the Management of Chronic Anal Fissure

Efficacy of diltiazem 2% rectal gel in the treatment of chronic anal fissure: a retrospective observational study

Efficacy of diltiazem 2% rectal gel in the treatment of chronic anal fissure: a retrospective observational study

Can topical applicatıons be an alternative to surgery in the treatment of chronic anal fissures?

Can topical applicatıons be an alternative to surgery in the treatment of chronic anal fissures?

Management of Chronic Fissure in Ano: A Case Study on Conservative vs. Surgical Treatment Approaches

The conservative treatment arm includes dietary modifications, stool softeners, topical analgesics, and sitz baths. This approach focuses on symptom relief, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence. In contrast, the surgical intervention arm involves procedures like lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) or advancement flap repair. These techniques aim to address the underlying sphincter hypertonicity or poor blood supply to the fissure site. The case study will present two patient profiles: one managed conservatively and the other surgically. Parameters such as pain scores, healing rates, time to symptom resolution, and recurrence rates will be compared between the two groups. Additionally, quality of life metrics and patient satisfaction will be assessed. Insights from this case study can aid clinicians in selecting the most appropriate treatment modality for chronic anal fissures, considering factors such as severity, patient preference, and potential risks. Ultimately, the study seeks to contribute valuable evidence to the ongoing debate surrounding the optimal management strategy for this prevalent colorectal condition. Furthermore, the impact on the patient's quality of life and satisfaction with the chosen treatment approach is examined. Through a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, and the patient, this case study highlights the importance of individualized care and shared decision-making in managing chronic fissure in ano.

Comparative Analysis of Open and Closed Sphincterotomy for the Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure: Safety and Efficacy Evaluation.

BACKGROUND Chronic anal fissure is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort and has a significant impact on quality of life. When conservative management fails, surgical sphincterotomy can be successful. This retrospective study from a single center in Turkey included 188 patients with chronic anal fissures and aimed to compare outcomes from open and closed sphincterotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study included 188 patients treated with lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) for chronic anal fissure between January 2015 and December 2021 in our hospital. Open LIS procedure was performed in 91 patients and closed LIS was performed in 97 patients. Demographic characteristics, postoperative complications, and recurrence were compared for these 2 methods. RESULTS Of the 188 patients included in the study, 47.9% were women and 52.1% were men. The mean age was 42.9 (20-84) years. In the open LIS group, recurrence occurred in 2 patients (2.19%), and no incontinence was observed. In the closed LIS group, recurrence occurred in 3 patients (3%; P=0.703), and incontinence developed in 5 patients (5.15%; P=0.035). CONCLUSIONS Comparing the 2 methods used in chronic anal fissure surgery, and considering the recurrence and risk of incontinence, the most feared outcome by the patient and surgeon, open LIS stands out as a superior technique, especially in young male patients.

Enhanced Approach to Treating Chronic Anal Fissures: Fissurectomy with Vertical Non-full-thickness Midline Sphincterotomy and Mucosal Advancement Flap.

Lateral internal sphincterotomy is a conventional surgical intervention for chronic anal fissures, yet the potential for postoperative anal incontinence underscores the need for an alternative approach. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of patients with chronic fissures who underwent a combination of fissurectomy, vertical non-full thickness midline sphincterotomy (VNMS), and mucosal advancement flap (MAF), as a means of mitigating the risk of incontinence. This retrospective analysis included forty-six consecutive patients with chronic anal fissures, unresponsive to topical diltiazem, who underwent fissurectomy combined with VNMS and MAF between April 2018 and May 2023. Primary outcome measures encompassed fissure healing rates. Continence was assessed using the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI), and manometric assessments were conducted before the procedure and three months postoperatively. With a median follow-up of 27 months, there were no postoperative complications, and the overall fissure healing rate reached 96% (44/46). At three months post-procedure, FISI scores were reduced to 0, with no instances of fecal soiling. Anal resting pressure exhibited a significant reduction at 3 months [pre-op: 133 (95% CI, 128-150) vs. 3 mo: 109 (95% CI, 100-117) cmH2O; p = 0.01]. Similarly, maximum anal squeeze pressure showed a significant decrease three months post-surgery [pre-op: 317 cmH2O (95% CI, 294-380) vs. 3 mo: 291 cmH2O (95% CI, 276-359), p = 0.03]. The combination of fissurectomy, VNMS, and MAF proved to be an effective approach for chronic anal fissures, yielding favorable medium-term outcomes without postoperative anal incontinence.

Botulinum toxin injection for chronic anal fissure: a prospective controlled study with long follow-up.

Botulinum toxin is an effective therapeutic option for chronic anal fissure. However, there is no evidence about treatment standardization and long-term follow-up. We aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin compared to close lateral internal sphincterotomy, with a 5-year follow-up. This was a prospective, controlled, single-center study conducted at University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy. The primary outcome was fissure healing at 1 month. Secondary outcomes were Quality-of-Life (QoL) at 1 month and after 5 years, and fissure recurrence at 6 months and 5 years. A total of 59 patients received botulinum toxin injection (Botox), and 32 underwent lateral internal sphincterotomy. At 1 month after treatments, postoperative pain decreased faster and significantly more in the Botox group (30 vs. 60 mm; P<0.001); fissure re-epithelization was observed in 59.4% of the surgical group compared to 25.4% of Botox (P=0.0001). Anal sphincter pressures decreased more in surgical group (P=0.044), although severe anal incontinence was present only in this subset (6.2%; P=0.041). Compared to surgery, patients who received Botox had higher satisfaction rates (P<0.001). Fissure recurrence at 6 months was more common in Botox than surgical group (16.9% vs. 3.2%, respectively; P=0.053). The overall healing rate improved in all patients and persisted at 12 months and 5 years in both groups with overall high patient satisfaction despite mild anal incontinence in 21.8% in the surgery group (P<0.05). Botox, rather than surgery, should be considered the first-line treatment for chronic anal fissure.