Treatment Of Complex Anal Fistula Research Articles

Efficacy and safety of 13 surgical techniques for the treatment of complex anal fistula, non-Crohn CAF: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Considering the difficulty of treating complex anal fistula (CAF), various surgical techniques exist in clinical work. However, none are ideal. Evidence on the efficacy and safety of different surgical treatments is scarce. The authors aimed to compare the outcomes of the 13 surgical techniques and tried to find the best surgical method for treating CAF. The authors searched worldwide databases, including Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, WanFang, VIP, and SinoMed, from inception to March 2023. All randomized controlled trials comparing the outcomes of 13 surgical techniques were included according to the PICO principles. The indicators of the cure rate, the recurrence rate, the complication rate, the operating time, the postoperative pain on day 1 (VAS), and the postoperative incontinence in month 1 (Wexner) were extracted and analyzed using STATA software 15.1, Review Manager 5.4, and GeMTC14.3. Twenty-eight randomized controlled trials with a total of 2274 patients were included in the network meta-analysis. There was no statistically significant difference in the comparison among any surgical interventions in terms of the cure rate ( P >0.05 Table 2) and recurrence rate ( P >0.05 Table 3). However, in terms of complication rate, fistulectomy was lower than FPS (Median: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.02-0.70) or fistulotomy (Median: 0.09; 95% CI: 0.01-0.55), and fistulotomy was lower than EAFR (Median: 0.24; 95% CI: 0.05-0.84), LIFT (Median: 0.17; 95% CI: 0.02-0.66) or LIFT-EAFR (Median: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.01-0.69) ( P >0.05 Table 4). The surface estimated the advantages and disadvantages under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA). The ranking results indicated that fistulectomy might have the lowest complication rate (SUCRA=7.9%). Because the network results of the operating time, the postoperative pain, and the postoperative incontinence contained no closed loops, the results of their probability ranking could only be referenced, demonstrating that fistulectomy might have the shortest operating time (SUCRA=23.4%), video-assisted modified ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (VAMLIFT) might have the lowest postoperative pain on day 1 (VAS) (SUCRA=0.4%) and LIFT might have the lowest postoperative incontinence in month 1(Wexner) (SUCRA=16.2%). Fistulectomy might have the lowest complication rate, which might be the relatively superior surgical technique for treating CAF.

Novel surgical procedure in design of advancement endorectal flap in the surgical treatment of complex anal fistulas.

Anal fistula is a common disease with incidence of 5.6 per 100,000 women and 12.3 men. It is most often of cryptoglandular origin. The aim of this study is to evaluate our experience with patients treated for complex anal fistula with our own complex surgical procedure with advancement endorectal flap. 524 patients with complex anal fistulas who were sent to our surgical clinic from January 2005 to the end of December 2022 were in- cluded in the study. We established the diagnosis by detecting the fistula tract by physical examination, anoscopy, probing the fistula tract and endorectal ultrasonography. We performed a complex operation together with the construction of the advancement endorectal flap in our own modification for all patients. Primary surgical intervention in a group of 326 patients with complex anal fistulas (excluding patients with Crohn's disease) was successful in 283 (87%) patients. We identified advancement endorectal flap defect in the postoperative period in 17 (5.2%) patients, soiling in 16 (4.9%) and flatus incontinence in 9 (2.7%) patients. In a group of 120 patients after multiple surgeries (excluding patients with Crohn's disease), our surgical procedure was successful in 92 (76.6%) patients. In the postoperative period, we identified a advancement endorectal flap defect in 6 (5%) patients, soiling in 8 (6.6%) and flatus incontinence in 3 (2.5%) patients. The construction of the advacement endorectal flap was curative and without affecting the level of anal continence in 87% of patients after primary surgical intervention and in 76.6% after multiple surgical procedures. Complex surgery with the construction of the advancement endorectal flap according to our procedure preserves the function of the sphincters and has a relatively low percentage of recurrences. The number of previous surgical interventions had no affect on the level of anal continence.

Long term results of video-assisted anal fistula treatment for complex anal fistula: another shattered dream?

Complex anal fistula represents a burden for patients, and its management is a challenge for surgeons. Video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) is one sphincter-sparing technique. However, data on its long-term effectiveness are scant. We aimed to explore the outcomes of VAAFT in a retrospective cohort of patients referred to a tertiary centre. Consecutive adult patients with a minimum of 2 years' follow-up after VAAFT were reviewed. Patients were followed up to 5 years postoperatively. Failure was defined as incomplete healing of the external orifice(s) during the first 6 months. Recurrence was defined as new radiologically and/or clinically confirmed onset of the fistula after primary healing. A generalized linear model was fitted to evaluate the association between failure and sociodemographic characteristics. Predictors of recurrence were determined in a subgroup analysis of patients found to be free from disease at 6 months postoperatively. Overall, 106 patients (70% male; mean age 41 years) were reviewed. Of these 86% had a previous seton placement. Fistulas were either high trans-sphincteric (74%), suprasphincteric (12%) or extrasphincteric (13%). Eight (7%) patients experienced postoperative complications, none of which required reintervention. Mean follow-up was 53 ± 13.2 months. VAAFT failed in 14 (13%) patients. The overall recurrence rate ranged from 29% at 1 year to 63% at 5 years. Multiple external orifices, suprasphincteric fistula, younger age, previous surgery and higher complexity of the fistulous tract were independent risk factors for recurrence. VAAFT is a safe sphincter-sparing technique. The initially high success rate decreases over time and relates to a higher degree of complexity.

Collagen treatment of complex anorectal fistula: 3 years follow-up.

Fistula in ano is a common anorectal disease in adults. Currently, surgery remains the definitive therapeutic approach, but in some cases, it can lead to serious complications as faecal or gas incontinence. Therefore, sphincter sparing treatments should be considered for complex fistulas. One of the sphincteric preserving treatment is the filling with a dermal extract commonly called "collagen glue" as Salvecoll-E® gel. This is a multicentric, prospective, observational study on the use of Salvecoll-E® gel in treatment of complex anal fistulas. We treated 70 patients from May 2016 to May 2017. In the first phase, we debrided the fistula tract using a loose seton kept for 4-6 weeks. In the second phase, the seton was removed and the fistula tract was filled with Salvecoll-E® gel. In this article, we report results at 36 months of follow-up. Fifty patients (71.4%) had completely healed fistula within 36 months of follow-up. Twenty-eight patients (28.2%) had recurrences. Among these failures, 65% were within 6 months. All low transphincteric fistulas healed. Recurrences occurred only in median and high transphincteric fistulas. No patient had a worsening of continence status measured with Cleveland Clinic Florida Incontinence Severity score. Salvecoll-E® gel is a recent finding among sphincter-sparing treatments. In this study, we demonstrate that it is a safe option in the treatment of complex fistulas. Final results are satisfactory and in line with the best results published in literature among mini-invasive treatments.

Surgery of Simple and Complex Anal Fistulae in Adults: A Review of the Literature for Optimal Surgical Outcomes.

Anal fistulas are common anorectal conditions, and surgery is the primary treatment option. In the last 20 years of literature, there exist a large number of surgical procedures, especially for the treatment of complex anal fistulas, as they present more recurrences and continence problems than simple anal fistulas. To date, there are no guidelines for choosing the best technique. We conducted a recent literature review, mainly the last 20 years, based on the PubMed and Google Scholar medical databases, with the goal of identifying the surgical procedures with the highest success rates, lowest recurrence rates, and best safety profiles. Clinical trials, retrospective studies, review articles, comparative studies, recent systematic reviews, and meta-analyses for various surgical techniques, as well as the latest guidelines of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland, and the German S3 guidelines on simple and complex fistulas were reviewed. According to the literature, there is no recommendation for the optimal surgical technique. The etiology, complexity, and many other factors affect the outcome. In simple intersphincteric anal fistulas, fistulotomy is the procedure of choice. In simple low transsphincteric fistulas, the patient's selection is crucial in order to perform a safe fistulotomy or another sphincter-saving technique. The healing rate in simple anal fistulas is higher than 95% with low recurrence and without significant postoperative complications. In complex anal fistulas, only sphincter-saving techniques should be used; the optimal outcomes are obtained by the ligation of the intersphincteric fistulous tract (LIFT) and rectal advancement flaps. Those techniques assure high healing rates of 60-90%. The novel technique of the transanal opening of the intersphincteric space (TROPIS) is under evaluation. The novel sphincter-saving techniques of fistula laser closure (FiLac) and video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) are safe, with reported healing rates ranging from 65% to 90%. Surgeons should be familiar with all sphincter-saving techniques in order to face the variability of the fistulas-in-ano. Currently, there is no universally superior technique that can treat all fistulas.

Cell-assisted lipotransfer in treating uncontrollable sepsis associated perianal fistula: a pilot study.

Surgeons can treat debilitating conditions of uncontrollable complex anorectal fistulas with sepsis, even after repeated fistula surgeries, for curative intention. Adipose-derived stem cells have shown good outcomes for refractory Crohn fistula. Unfortunately, cell therapy has some limitations, including high costs. We have therefore attempted immediate cell-assisted lipotransfer (CAL) in treating refractory complex anal fistulas and observed its outcomes. In a retrospective study, CAL, using a mixture of freshly extracted autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and fat tissues, was used to treat 22 patients of refractory complex anal fistula from March 2018 to May 2021. Preoperative and postoperative assessments were performed with direct visual inspection, digital palpation, and endoanal ultrasonography. A fistula was considered completely healed if (1) the patient had no symptoms of discharge or inflammation; (2) there were no visible secondary openings of fistula tract inside and outside of the anorectal unit and even in the perineum; and (3) there was no primary opening in the anus. The endpoint of complete remission was wound healing without signs of inflammation 3 months after CAL treatment. In a total of 22 patients who received CAL treatment, 19 patients showed complete remission, 1 patient showed partial improvement, and 2 patients showed no improvement. One of the 2 patients without improvement at primary endpoint showed complete remission 9 months after CAL. There were no significant adverse effects of the procedure. We found that the immediately-collected CAL procedure for refractory complex anal fistula showed good outcomes without adverse side effects. It can be strongly recommended as an alternative surgical option for the treatment of complex anal fistula that is uncontrollable even after repeated surgical procedures. However, considering the unpredictable characteristics of SVF, long-term follow-up is necessary.

A Comparison of Different Surgical Treatments for Complex Anal Fistula: A Systematic Review.

Fistula-in-ano is a common proctological condition that primarily affects younger people and leads to chronic morbidity. An anal fistula is divided into simple and complex fistulas. A complex fistula is a challenging problem due to higher recurrence rates and incontinence associated with surgery. Many new methods have been developed for the closure of complex fistula-in-ano, but there is no single best method. The aim of this study is to identify a superior surgical technique for treating complex/high cryptoglandular perianal fistulas (HCPFs). A literature search was done using PubMed and Google Scholar for the period of 2012-2021. Articles that contain surgical treatment for complex anal fistula in the English language published in the last 10 years were included. The types of studies included were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), meta-analyses, systematic reviews, cohort studies, and traditional reviews. Articles excluded were those done more than 10 years ago, in other languages, and containing simple fistula management only. Nine studies were included in the review; a systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that no single method is effective. The ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) procedure seems to be a promising and effective technique as it has a low rate of fecal incontinence as compared to other methods. Biological techniques give variable success rates so does fistula plug (FP). Mucosal advancement flap (MAF) and rerouting seton give good results according to one study. Fistula plug gives variable results and is not a preferred method.Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) seems to be a promising new technique for complex anal fistulas, but the data available is not enough to determine the best method. More randomized trials are required to compare traditional techniques and emerging new biological methods to see the best technique available.

Outcome of Core out Fistulectomy with Anal Spincter Reconstruction and Primary Repair of Internal Opening in the Treatment of Complex Anal Fistula; A Experience of 30 Cases

Background: The principal of management of anal fistula include closure of interior opening of fistula tract, drainage of contamination or necrotic tissue, and eradication of fistulous tract with maintenance of sphincter function. The selection of surgical operation (simple fistulotomy, fistulectomy, seton placement, development flap, fibrin glue or anal plug) is decided with the aid of the route of the fistula tracts and continence status. Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the surgical technique “core out fistulectomy with anal sphincter reconstruction and primary closure of internal opening” in the treatment of trans-sphincteric fistula (high type or long tract) or supra-sphincteric fistula in terms of fistula healing, morbidity, recurrence and anal continence. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Surgery Dr Amanat khan hospital and other private hospitals, Dhaka, Bangladesh, during 5th March 2020 to 10th April 2022. A total 30 patients between the age group 20 to 70 years who were diagnosed with Fistula-in-Ano(Complex Variety) which underwent Core out Fistulectomy with Anal Spincter Reconstruction and Primary Repair of Internal Opening. This analysis was done using SPSS 24 software version. The level of significance was set to 5% (p < 0.05). Results: There were 30 (91%) men and three (9%) women with a median age of 42 years. The common anal fistula type was high transsphincteric fistula in 31 patients with deep postanal abscess in two patients and two patients were suprasphincteric fistula. Conclusions: Core out fistulectomy with anal sphincter reconstruction and major closure of inner opening is a secure and nice method for excessive trans-sphincteric fistula. It has desirable useful results and no disturbance of continence. This has to be viewed in the cure of high trans-sphincteric fistula.

Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) with or Without Injection of Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells in the Treatment of Trans-sphincteric Anal Fistula: a Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundLigation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is a sphincter-saving procedure used for treatment of complex anal fistula. The current study aimed to assess the outcome of local injection of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) in conjunction with LIFT as compared to LIFT alone in regards to healing rate, time to healing, and ultimate success rate. MethodsThis was a prospective randomized trial on patients with trans-sphincteric anal fistula. Patients were randomly allocated to one of two equal groups: LIFT and LIFT with BM-MNC injection. The main outcome measures were healing at 10 weeks of follow-up, recurrence after healing, and complications. ResultsSeventy patients (48 male and 22 female) of a mean age of 37.9±10.4 years were included. The mean time to complete healing after LIFT + BM-MNCs was significantly shorter than after LIFT alone (20.5±5.2 vs 28.04±5.8 days; P < 0.0001). The ultimate success rates of both groups were similar (LIFT = 60% vs LIFT with BM-MNCs = 68.6%, P = 0.62). There was no significant difference in the mean operation time or complication rate between the two groups. Secondary extension and previous anal surgery were significant independent predictors of failure of healing. ConclusionLIFT combined with BM-MNC injection was associated with a shorter time to complete healing than LIFT alone. However, BM-MNC injection did not have a significant impact on the overall healing and ultimate success rate.

Sphincter-Preserving Fistulectomy Is an Effective Minimally Invasive Technique for Complex Anal Fistulas.

BackgroundThe optimal treatment of complex anal fistulas remains unclear, though many different sphincter-preserving procedures have been described. A minimally invasive technique with a better outcome is desired. The purpose of this study was to present a new technique—sphincter-preserving fistulectomy (SPF) and its clinical outcomes.Materials and MethodsA retrospective study was performed to compare the efficacy and outcomes of SPF with ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) in the management of complex anal fistulas in regards to postoperative pain, complications, wound healing time, recurrence, overall success rate, fecal continence function, and quality of life. Continence function was evaluated using the Wexner incontinence scale and anal manometry. The fecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) scale was used to assess patients' quality of life.ResultsFrom June 2020 to July 2021, 41 patients with 43 SPF procedures and 35 patients with 35 LIFT procedures were included. Postoperative pain was comparable between two groups. The morbidity rate and the mean wound healing time in the SPF group were lower than those in the LIFT group (2.3% vs. 48.6%, p < 0.001; 1.4 ± 0.3 vs. 1.7 ± 0.4 months, p = 0.001). At a mean follow-up duration of 11.4 ± 3.5 months in the SPF group and 10.7 ± 4.3 months in the LIFT group, SPF achieved a better overall success rate than LIFT (97.7% vs. 77.1%, p = 0.014). Three patients in the SPF group and 4 patients in the LIFT group who all underwent a simultaneous fistulotomy procedure complained new incontinence of flatus. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in regards to the Wexner scores (p = 0.790), the maximum resting anal canal pressure (p = 0.641), the maximum squeeze pressure (p = 0.289), and the FIQL scores including lifestyle (p = 0.188), coping (p = 0.188), depression (p = 0.850), and embarrassment (p = 0.910).ConclusionsSPF is a novel, safe, and effective minimally invasive technique for the management of complex anal fistulas, with a promising success rate and negligible impairment on continence. Future prospective studies are needed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of SPF.

A pilot randomized controlled trial on ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) versus modified parks technique and two-stage seton in treatment of complex anal fistula.

Complex anal fistula (CAF) is a challenging condition for surgeons. This randomized trial aimed to compare ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT), modified Parks technique, and two-stage seton in the treatment of complex anal fistula in terms of the success of treatment and complications. This was a pilot randomized trial conducted in the period of January 2019 to December 2019 on adult patients with CAF who were allocated to one of three groups: LIFT, modified Parks technique, and two-stage seton. The main outcome measures were healing rates, time to healing, complications, operation time, and quality of life. Sixty-six patients (75.7% males) of a mean age of 45.2years were included. Mean operation time of LIFT was significantly shorter than the other two procedures (p < 0.0001). There was a significant difference between the three groups in terms of success rate (p = 0.04) but not in regard to complications (p = 0.59). The modified Parks technique had a significantly higher success rate than LIFT (95.2% vs 68.1%, p = 0.045) whereas the success rates of two-stage seton and LIFT were not significantly different (86.9% vs 68.1%, p = 0.16). The average time to healing after LIFT was significantly shorter than the other two procedures. The quality-of-life scores were comparable among the three groups. There was a significant difference in healing rates after the three procedures as the modified Parks technique achieved the highest success rate followed by two-stage seton and then the LIFT procedure. Time to complete healing after LIFT was significantly shorter than the other two procedures. The three procedures achieved similar quality of life and complication rates.

Clinical experience of applying a modified FILaC procedure for treatment of complex anal fistulas

Surgical treatment of complicated anal fistulas remains one of the most difficult issues of coloproctology. In this study we used a modification of Fistula Laser Closure procedure in complex treatment of patients with anal fistulas. The purpose of our study was to assess the short-term and remote results of applying the modified FiLaC procedure in patients with complex anal fistulas and compare these results with conventional fistulectomy. The patients with complex transsphincteric and extrasphincteric anal fistulas were prospectively divided into FiLaC and conventional fistulectomy groups. The operative duration was longer, by 31% (p&lt;0.05), in the FiLaC group compared to the control group. The healing of fistulas was faster by 42% (p&lt;0.05)in the FiLaC group (7.3 ± 0.5 weeks versus 12.6 ± 0.7 weeks). The Wexner Incontinence scale scores were significantly lower (p&lt;0.05) in the FiLaC group. The recurrence of rectal fistula after the surgery was observed in 37.2% in the control group versus 17.5% in the FiLaC group (p&lt;0.05) (median follow up period — 13 months). The pressure parameters of the anal sphincter were significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) in the longterm follow-up period in patients of the FiLaC group and continence was maintained in 92.5% of the FiLaC group. Thus, the study has shown that the modified FiLaC procedure accelerates the healing time of the fistula by 42% (p&lt;0.05), reduces the number of fistula recurrences from 37.2% to 17.5% (p&lt;0.05), and has minimal negative effects on anal continence.

Long-term Evaluation of Fistulotomy and Immediate Sphincteroplasty as a Treatment for Complex Anal Fistula.

Fistulotomy with immediate sphincteroplasty is a technique that can heal fistulas and decrease fecal incontinence more effectively than fistulotomy alone, in selected patients. We aimed to perform a long-term evaluation of fecal incontinence after fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty in patients with complex anal fistula. This prospective study included patients undergoing fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty for complex anal fistula from January 2000 to December 2010. The study was conducted by 2 colorectal surgeons in the coloproctology unit of the General Hospital of Elche. We included patients aged ≥18 years with complex anal fistulas of cryptoglandular origin. Main outcomes were recurrence and continence after fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty, according to fistula tract height and preoperative continence status. A total of 107 patients were included; 68.2% were men, with a mean age of 48 years and mean fistula duration of 12.8 months. The range and median follow-up period were 84 to 204 and 96 months. Thirty-seven fistulas were not primary. The overall healing rate was 84.1%. Primary fistulas healed by the end of follow-up in 58 (82.9%) of 70 patients; recurrent fistulas healed in 32 (86.5%) of 37; high tracts healed in 31 (83.8%) of 37, and nonhigh fistulas healed in 59 (84.3%) of 70. Male sex (OR = 0.66 (95% CI, 0.20-2.13); p > 0.05) and recurrent fistulas (OR = 0.43 (95% CI, 0.11-1.68); p > 0.05) could have a protective effect against postoperative fecal incontinence; however, more studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm this result, whereas high fistulas showed a 4-fold increased risk of incontinence (range, 1.22-13.06; p < 0.01). One in 5 high-tracts patients experienced continence deterioration. This was a prospective study, and randomized clinical trials with more patients and longer follow-up are needed to compare fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty with other sphincter-preserving techniques. Fistulotomy and immediate sphincteroplasty are good options for treating complex anal fistulas, especially for recurrent fistulas, men, and patients with nonhigh tracts, with acceptable recurrence and incontinence rates. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B498. ANTECEDENTES:La fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata es una técnica que puede curar las fístulas y disminuir la incontinencia fecal de manera más efectiva que la fistulotomía sola, en pacientes seleccionados.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo fue realizar una evaluación a largo plazo de la incontinencia fecal después de la fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata en pacientes con fístula anal compleja.DISEÑO:Este estudio prospectivo incluyó pacientes sometidos a fistulotomía y esfinteroplastia inmediata por fístula anal compleja, desde enero de 2000 hasta diciembre de 2010.ENTORNO CLINICO:El estudio fue realizado por dos cirujanos colorrectales de la Unidad de Coloproctología del Hospital General de Elche.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes ≥ 18 años con fístulas anales complejas de origen criptoglandular.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACION:Los principales resultados fueron la recurrencia y la continencia después de la fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata, de acuerdo con la altura del trayecto de la fístula y el estado de continencia preoperatoria.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron un total de 107 pacientes; El 68,2% eran varones, con una edad media de 48 años y una duración media de la fístula de 12,8 meses. El rango y la mediana del período de seguimiento fue de 84-204 y 96 meses, respectivamente. Treinta y siete fístulas no fueron primarias. La tasa de curación general fue del 84,1%. Las fístulas primarias cicatrizaron al final del seguimiento en 58/70 (82,9%) pacientes; las fístulas recurrentes cicatrizaron en 32/37 (86,5%); los tractos altos cicatrizaron en 31/37 (83,8%) y las fístulas no altas cicatrizaron en 59/70 (84,3%). El sexo masculino (razón de posibilidades: 0,66 [0,20-2,13], p > 0,05) y las fístulas recurrentes (razón de posibilidades: 0,43 [0,11-1,68], p > 0,05) podrían tener un efecto protector contra la incontinencia fecal postoperatoria, sin embargo, más estudios con una muestra más grande son necesarios para confirmar este resultado. Fistulas altas mostraron un riesgo cuatro veces mayor de incontinencia ([1.22-13.06], p < 0.01). Uno de cada cinco pacientes con tractos altos experimentó un deterioro de la continencia.LIMITACIONES:Este fue un estudio prospectivo y se necesitan ensayos clínicos aleatorios con más pacientes y un seguimiento más prolongado para comparar la fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata con otras técnicas de preservación del esfínter.CONCLUSIÓN:La fistulotomía y la esfinteroplastia inmediata son buenas opciones para el tratamiento de fístulas anales complejas, especialmente para fístulas recurrentes, varones y pacientes con tractos no altos, con tasas aceptables de recurrencia e incontinencia. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B498.

Treatment of anal fistula with FiLaC®: results of a 10-year experience with 175 patients.

Treatment of fistula-in-ano with fistula laser closure (FiLaC®) is a sphincter-saving procedure indicated for patients with complex anal fistulas. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical results of a 10-year experience with FiLaC®. Data from patients with cryptoglandular anal fistula who underwent laser closure with FiLaC® in June 2009-May 2019 were evaluated. The primary study endpoint was healing rate. Secondary endpoints were evaluation of morbidity and assessment of possible predictive factors of failure. Out of a total of 180 patients, 5 had been lost to follow-up. 175 patients [m:f: 115:60; median age 49years (range18-81years)] with cryptoglandular fistulas treated with FiLaC® were included in the study. Fistulas were transphincteric in 152 (86.8%) cases, intersphincteric in 18 (10.3%), and suprasphincteric in 5 (2.9%). A seton or draining silicon loop was placed in 142 (81.8%) patients at a median of 14weeks (range10-28weeks) prior to FiLaC®. At median follow-up of 60months (range 9-120months), the overall primary healing rate was 66.8% (117/175). Thirty-eight patients (21.7%) failed to heal. Twenty out of 175 (11.4%) patients had recurrence at median follow-up of 18months (range 9-50months). Patients in whom a seton/loop was inserted for drainage at the first-stage procedure had a statistically significant higher rate of success (100/142, 70.4% vs. 17/33, 51.5%, respectively; p 0.0377; odds ratio 0.45). Forty-eight patients were reoperated on at a median of 15months (range 12-20months) after laser treatment. Twenty-six underwent redo laser closure with FiLaC®, and 12 of them healed (46%), for a secondary success rate of 73.7%. Longer follow-up confirms the efficacy of FiLaC® in the treatment of complex anal fistulas. Its use and implementation should be encouraged.

Treatment of Complex Anal Fistula by Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment Combined with Anal Fistula Plug: A Single-Center Study.

Objective. The surgical treatment of complex anal fistulae is very challenging because of the incidence of incontinence after traditional approaches. There are no studies on the role of video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) combined with anal fistula plug (AFP) in the complex anal fistulae. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of treating complex anal fistulae using VAAFT combined with AFP. Method. This was a retrospective, nonrandomized observational study. 57 consecutive patients with complex anal fistulae who had undergone the VAAFT with AFP in our hospital between April 2016 and December 2019 were included. The primary outcomes were the cure rate, recurrence rate, and Wexner incontinence scores; the secondary outcomes were surgery time, blood loss, wound healing time postoperatively, pain, and patient satisfaction. Results. All 57 patients completed the surgery and follow-up, with an average follow-up time of 28months; 6 patients suffered with recurrence (recurrence rate: 10.5%). The average surgery time was 57.9minutes, and the average wound healing time was 46days. There were no severe postoperative complications, and anal sphincter function was protected in all patients. Conclusions. The treatment of complex anal fistula by VAAFT combined with AFP is safe and effective, has a high healing rate and few postoperative complications, and is a promising surgery that can effectively protect the patient's anal sphincter function.

English

BACKGROUND Fistula-in-ano or anal fistulas are documented since ancient times and their management has always been a challenge. Various modalities of treatment are available and newer ones are being added each day. The aim of this retrospective study is to analyse the outcome of the video assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT), one of the modalities of treatment for complex anal fistulas done at our centre. METHODS Records of patients who had been treated through VAAFT by single senior consultant surgeon of Minimal Access Surgery unit between April 2013 and March 2019, were collected and analysed. RESULTS Altogether, records of 48 (forty-eight) patients who had undergone VAAFT during the period were analysed. Data revealed that 38 male (79.17 %) and 10 female (20.83 %) patients with mean age of 49.96 ± 12.22 years were operated. Most commonly, trans sphincteric followed by inter sphincteric type of fistulae were encountered. In 3 cases, internal opening couldn’t be visualised. Six patients were documented to have a recurrence within 6 months of the procedure and in the rest were cured except in a small subset of patients who did not follow up. CONCLUSIONS Amongst the wide range of armamentarium available today for the treatment of complex anal fistulas, video assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) is a novel sphincter saving technique. The recurrence rate at our centre was at par with other studies and with zero incontinence rate, however further RCTs are required. KEYWORDS Complex Anal Fistula, Fistula-in-Ano, MEINERO Fistuloscope, VAAFT

Comparison of loose silk and tightenable polypropylene seton placement in treatment of complex anal fistula

Comparison of loose silk and tightenable polypropylene seton placement in treatment of complex anal fistula

Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment for Treatment of Complex Cryptoglandular Anal Fistulas with 2 Years Follow-Up Period: Our Experience.

Aim: The aim of this prospective, nonrandomized, observational study was to present our results in operative treatment of complex anal fistulas using video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) procedure with a curative intent in 2 years follow-up period. Materials and Methods: Between March 2016 and March 2018, 73 patients underwent the VAAFT procedure. Postoperative follow-up was 2 years, up to March 2020. Only patients with complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas were included. All patients were referred for magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis. Fecal incontinence severity index score was used to assess any continence disturbance prior operation and postoperatively. Result: Primary healing occurred in 52 cases (71.23%) after first operation. From 21 patients who had recurrence or who had persisting disease, 16 patients accepted reoperation with second VAAFT procedure and additionally 10 patients achieved healing. From a total number of 73 patients who were included in study healing ultimately occurred in 62 cases (84.93%). In the first operation internal opening was identified in 47 cases (64.38%) and was closed with mattress suture, rectal advancement flap or ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract technique depending on its extent and type of fistula. Median primary healing rate was 6 weeks. There were no serious intra- or postoperative complications. None of the patients reported any type of continence disturbance. Discussion: VAAFT has been shown to offer good rates of healing, low morbidities, possibilities of multiple attempts in case of first failure and this series adds to the literature.

Cable-Tie Seton for Treatment of Complex Fistula in Ano

Abstract Background: Seton is defined as a string-like material that can be tied through the fistula to induce an inflammatory reaction leading to fibrosis that fixes the sphincter and prevents its retraction when it is divided. Seton is commonly used by surgeons for treatment of complex anal fistula (complexity means: Fistula crossing >30% to 50% of the external anal sphincter, recurrence, multiple tracks, or co-existence of anal incontinence). Aim of Study: To detect the anal incontinence and recur-rence rate when we treat patients suffering from complex anal fistula by cable tie seton at a university hospital. Patients and Methods: Our study is a prospective case series including patients with complex anal fistula i.e. recurrent fistula, managed with cable tie seton from May 2015 to July 2018. Patients were followed up in the outpatient clinic after one week of seton insertion and then every two week. At each visit time, the cable-tie was tightened enough if found loose without anesthesia. Incontinence was inquired about using wexner's score. Results: During the study period, Seventy nine patients were treated. Their age was (mean ± standard deviation) 41±10.6 years. Tightening of the seton was done with a median of six times (3-15 times range). All patients had complete healing in 11.2±5.7 weeks. Follow-up was done for all patients for a variable period with minimum of one year and none of the them had any anal incontinence. Recurrence was noticed in 4 (5%) patients. Conclusion: The cable tie seton proved to be safe for the patients, cost effective and had low morbidity when used for the treatment of complex fistulae in-ano. Therefore, it can be recommended as standard method for treating complex fistulae-in-ano.

Seton in Treating ComplexAnorectal Fistula-Our Experience

Background : Complex anorectal fistula may be endowed by the level at which the primary tract crosses the sphincters, the presence of secondary extensions or the difficulties faced in the treatment. Existing different treatment modalities like local advancement flap, LIFT procedure, fistulotomy and use of seton. Surgeons are afraid of incontinence in treating complex anorectal fistula. The aim of treatment of anal fistula is to cure the disease avoiding faecal incontinence. Among different procedures, Seton, a thread of foreign material, passed through the fistulous track and encircling sphincter mass thereby severing the muscle gradually without allowing it to spring apart and replacing the cut by the line of fibrosis thus avoiding incontinence, is an acceptable method practiced world wide. The purpose of the study is to evaluate and share our experience with others about the result of using seton in the treatment of complex anal fistula in our setting.&#x0D; Method: Between January 2003 and December 2008, I have taken the 1st 100 patients underwent surgery for complex anal fistula in Colorectal Surgery Unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medial University, Dhaka. It involved initial identification and partial laying open of the fistulous tract. A tight seton is placed around the external sphincter and is not removed until the internal orifice has migrated towards the perianal skin.&#x0D; Results: Out of 100 patients with mean age 43 years (range 19-65 years) 6 female and rest male underwent the procedure of seton. The median follow-up was 28.6 (24-36) months. The mean time of wound healing was 9.5 weeks (range 6-15). Recurrence occurred in two patient (2%). Continence disorders of flatus and loose stool were noted in 14 patients (14%). The duration with the seton in place was 56 days (range 20-190).&#x0D; Conclusion: The technique shows excellent results in the treatment of complex anal fistulous with preservation of faecal continence.&#x0D; Journal of Surgical Sciences (2013) Vol. 17 (1) : 14-17