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Purpose: Many techniques are used to treat fistula-in-ano (FIA). The major problems associated with conventional surgical techniques are postoperative complications like sepsis, incontinence, etc. Therefore, several sphincter-saving techniques have been developed in recent years including laser diodes.Methods: This study presents an early experience of the use of diode lasers with a capacity of 360° radial energy emission endofistula laser ablation (EFLA) of FIA to treat patients with primary low anal fistulas. The primary and secondary success rates were assessed and the factors affecting these rates were evaluated in patients (n=31) who presented with primary, uncomplicated, and low anal fistulas.Results: Out of 31 patients, 19 (61.3%) were males and 12 (38.7%) were females with a mean age of 38.6±11.5 years. Twenty-one patients (67.7%) had intersphincteric fistula, 9 (29.0%) had transsphincteric fistula, and 1 (3.2%) had suprasphincteric fistula. Thirteen patients (41.9%) had undergone some surgery in the past for FIA. Eleven patients (35.5%) developed postoperative complications. The patients had a low median pain score of 3 on the numeric pain rating scale. The primary success rate was 67.7% (21 of 31) and the secondary success rate was 80.0% (8 of 10) over a median follow-up of 2 years. A significantly higher primary healing rate was observed in patients who did not undergo any prior surgical treatments (P=0.01).Conclusion: EFLA resulted in moderate primary and high secondary success rates and was not associated with major postoperative complications. Therefore, EFLA can be considered as a preferred noninvasive efficient technique for FIA treatment.

This study was aimed to evaluate clinical outcome of patients with perianal fistula operated with the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) technique. The study was conducted at Department of Surgery, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro from July 2018 and August 2019. A total of 22 patients diagnosed with perianal fistula operated with the Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) technique were selected using non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or endosonography (ES) were performed to make a confirmed diagnosis of fistula. They were classified according to Parks classification. All patients were subjected to intersphincteric fistulous tract ligation using the technique defined by Rojanasakul modified. There were 16 males and 6 females. Mean age was 42 years (range 23-68 years of age). Out of 22 patients, 17 patients had a history of perianal abscess drainage prior to surgery and an average preoperative symptom presentation was 2.2 years (range 0-10 years). Therapeutic success with first surgery was achieved in 77% and with a second surgery in 90%. None of this patients modified their preoperative Wexner. It was concluded that LIFT technique appears to be a convenient, reproducible, and effective surgical alternative. This provides an appropriate closing rate and without continence modification, Therefore indicated for complex cryptoglandular fistulas.

Background Success rate after ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract ranges from 40% to 75%. Platelet-rich plasma is hypothesized to improve healing by slowly releasing growth factors. The objective of the study was to compare the efficacy and outcome of ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma local injection versus ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract alone in the management of high trans-sphincteric anal fistula in regards to postoperative pain, time for healing, morbidity, fistula closure rate, recurrence, and quality of life. Methods This was a prospective randomized trial. Patients with trans-sphincteric anal fistulas involving >50% of anal sphincters were included. Patients were randomly assigned to either ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma or ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract (49 in each group). The primary endpoints were successful complete fistula closure and duration needed for healing. Secondary endpoints were morbidity, recurrence after 1 year of follow-up, postoperative pain, and quality of life. Results Complete primary healing was recorded in 42 patients in the ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma group and 32 patients in the ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract group, and the difference was statistically significant (P = .03). The mean time to complete healing after ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma was significantly shorter than after ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract alone (15.7 ± 4 days vs 21.6 ± 5.4 days; P = .03). One year after complete healing of anal fistula, recurrence was recorded in 4/42 patients in the ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma group and 3/32 patients in the ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract group with no statistically significant difference (P = .99). Patients in the ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma group had significantly lower pain scores after both 1 and 7 days. Quality of life and level of happiness were significantly better 1 month after ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma. Conclusion Ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of high trans-sphincteric fistula-in-ano is a safe modality with significantly higher successful healing rate, shorter healing time, and less postoperative pain compared with ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract alone. Ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract plus platelet-rich plasma does not improve the rate of recurrence; however, it results in significantly higher short-term quality of life.

Background Fistula-in-ano is one of the most common benign anal conditions in daily surgical practice.The goals in the treatment of an anal fistula are to eradicate sepsis and to eliminate the primary fistula opening, any associated tracts, and any secondary openings without a change in continence. Conventional fistulotomy (lay open of the fistula tract) is a commonly used procedure and is still relied on by the majority of surgeons as the gold standard for the treatment of perianal fistula. Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) is a new sphincter-preserving technique for the treatment of anal fistula. Objective To compare the efficacy of open fistulotomy and ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) procedure based on its post-operative outcomes. Patients and methods The Present study is A prospective randomized controlled trial which included 30 patients presented with low transsphincteric perianal fistula 27 (90%) males and 3 (10%) females divided into two groups each group consisted of 15 patients. Group, I subjected to inter sphincteric ligation of perianal fistula (LIFT) procedure. Group II patients subjected to conventional fistulotomy. The study lasts 2 years from May 2017 to May 2019 with Follow up for 6 months duration. Operative time in our study was significantly higher in group (I) Managed by LIFT with a mean of 32.53 min than group (II) managed by fistulotomy with a mean of 20.87mins. Wound healing was faster in a group (I) managed by LIFT than group (II) managed by fistulotomy, as the mean time for complete wound healing was (4.53) weeks after LIFT and (5.67) weeks after fistulotomy. Results There was no case of incontinence after performing the LIFT technique in all our patients in group I. there were 2 cases of incontinence to gases only after fistulotomy in group II. The healing rate after LIFT was 80% (12/15 patients). The healing rate after fistulotomy was 93.3% (14/15 patients). Conclusion LIFT procedure is an effective and preferred sphincter-saving technique for fistula-in-ano with shorter healing time and lower incidence of postoperative anal incontinence, as compared to open fistulotomy., Highlights • Perianal Fistula. • Ligation of intersphinectric fistula tract • Conventional fistulotomy. • sphincter saving technique.

Background: A hospital randomized control study was conducted at a tertiary care Hospital, to compare outcomes between the Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) technique and conventional fistulotomy for the treatment of low trans-sphincteric fistula in ano, including 50 patients of low trans-sphincteric fistula in ano randomly divided into two groups. LIFT technique was used in first group while Conventional Fistulotomy was performed in another. Mean duration of operation was significantly less and mean hospital stay, post-operative pain and analgesics need was significantly less in cases operated with LIFT. Mean time for complete healing was significantly less in cases operated with LIFT technique and the difference in complication rate was statistically nonsignificant. Recurrence was reported in 3 (12%) and 1 (4%) cases operated by LIFT and fistulotomy respectively. Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) procedure is effective and preferred sphincter saving technique for fistula-in-ano. Despite slightly more recurrence, LIFT procedure has certain advantages over standard fistulotomy like shorter operative time, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay and faster wound healing and early resumption of normal duties.

Background Acute anorectal abscesses of cryptoglandular origin are commonly managed by incision and drainage, which results in fistula development in up to 73% of cases, requiring subsequent definitive fistula surgery. However, given that fistula tracts may already be present at the initial presentation, primary closure of the tract as secondary prevention of fistula formation, using ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract, may be useful. Objective This study aims to examine the feasibility and outcomes of performing intersphincteric exploration with ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract or attempted closure of internal opening for acute anorectal abscesses. Design This is a retrospective study of patients with acute anorectal cryptoglandular abscesses who underwent surgery between January 2014 and December 2016. Settings The patients were treated at a tertiary referral center in Thailand. Patients Eighty-six patients with acute anorectal abscesses without previous surgery were included. Interventions Intersphincteric dissection was performed. Further surgical intervention was dependent on the intersphincteric findings. Main outcome measure The main outcome measure was the 90-day healed rate. Results Of the 86 patients, 3 had low intersphincteric abscesses, 26 had low transsphincteric abscesses, 25 had anterior high transsphincteric abscesses, 27 had posterior high transsphincteric abscesses, and 5 had high intersphincteric abscesses. Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract was successfully performed in 66 patients with an identifiable intersphincteric tract. Intersphincteric exploration with attempted closure of the internal opening was performed in the remaining 20 patients. The success rates were 86% and 70%. Unidentified internal opening and intersphincteric pathology were risk factors for nonhealing. No patients reported fecal incontinence postoperatively. Limitations The limitation of this study is its retrospective nature and that all operations were performed by a single surgeon; therefore, the results may vary according to the individual surgeon's expertise. Conclusions Fistula tract formation was found in most cases of acute anorectal abscesses. Definitive surgery using this strategy provides promising results. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B451. Exploracin interesfintrica con ligadura del trayecto en la fstula interesfintrica o intento de cierre del orificio interno en abscesos anorrectales agudos ANTECEDENTES:Los abscesos anorrectales agudos de origen criptoglandular, comunmente se manejan mediante incision y drenaje, lo que resulta en el desarrollo de una fistula hasta en un 73% de los casos, requiriendo posteriormente cirugia definitiva de la fistula. Sin embargo, dado que los trayectos de la fistula ya pueden estar inicialmente presentes, puede ser util el cierre primario del trayecto, como prevencion secundaria en la formacion de la fistula, mediante la ligadura del trayecto de la fistula interesfinterica.OBJETIVO:El estudio tiene como objetivo, examinar la viabilidad y los resultados en realizar exploracion interesfinterica, con ligadura del trayecto de fistula interesfinterica o intento de cierre del orificio interno para abscesos anorrectales agudos.DISENO:Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo de pacientes con abscesos criptoglandulares anorrectales agudos, que fueron operados entre enero de 2014 y diciembre de 2016.AJUSTES:Los pacientes fueron tratados en un centro de referencia terciario en Tailandia.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron 86 pacientes con abscesos anorrectales agudos, sin cirugia previa.INTERVENCIONES:Se realizo diseccion interesfinterica. La intervencion quirurgica adicional dependio de los hallazgos interesfintericos.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:La principal medida de resultado, fue la tasa de cicatrizacion a 90 dias.RESULTADOS:De los 86 pacientes, hubo 3 abscesos interesfintericos bajos, 26 abscesos transesfintericos bajos, 25 abscesos transesfintericos anteriores altos, 27 abscesos transesfintericos posteriores altos y 5 abscesos interesfintericos altos. La ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica, con tracto interesfinterico identificable, se realizo con exito en 66 pacientes. Se realizo exploracion interesfinterica, con intento de cierre del orificio interno en los 20 pacientes restantes. Las tasas de exito fueron 86% y 70% respectivamente. Orificio interno no identificado y patologia interesfinterica, fueron factores de riesgo para la falta de cicatrizacion. Ningun paciente reporto incontinencia fecal posoperatoria.LIMITACIONES:La limitacion de este estudio, es su naturaleza retrospectiva y que todas las operaciones fueron realizadas por un solo cirujano, por lo tanto, los resultados pueden variar segun la experiencia de cada cirujano.CONCLUSIONES:En la mayoria de los casos de abscesos anorrectales agudos, se encontro formacion de trayectos fistulosos. La cirugia definitiva con esta estrategia, proporciona resultados prometedores. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B451.

Introduction: Fistula in ano is a common anorectal disorder requiring surgical intervention. It is associated with high recurrence rate and post-operative complications. In this study we have analysed and compare results of a newer technique for low anal fistula SLOFT with conventional Fistulectomy. Aims and Objective: To compare Submucosal Ligation of Fistula Tract (SLOFT) with conventional fistulectomy in patients of low anal fistula by analysing various intra-operative factors and post-operative outcome. Materials and Methods: An interventional study carried out at Santosh Medical College and Hospitals, Ghaziabad from January 2017 to October 2018. This study included 60 Patients of low anal fistula which were divided into two groups of 30 patients each. Group I was offered Conventional Fistulectomy & Group II underwent SLOFT. Result and Observations: Fistula in ano is commonly seen in middle aged males. There is no significant difference in duration of surgery between SLOFT and Fistulectomy. However post-operative complications, pain (measured by VAS scoring system), wound healing and early return to work was significantly better in patients who underwent SLOFT. Conclusion: SLOFT has significant advantage over convention fistulectomy in terms of post-operative pain, wound healing, early return to work and cosmetic outcome. Keywords: Fistula in ano, Low anal fistula, SLOFT (Submucosal ligation of fistula tract), LIFT (Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract), Fistulectomy.

Aim Treatment of transsphincteric fistulas (TSFs) with fistulotomy after an indwelling seton is tempered by risks of incontinence and litigation. Thus, ligation of the TSF tract has been popularized as an alternative option. We previously reported on 107 patients who underwent ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT), with a 46% failure rate. Posterior fistula was the only predictor of recurrence. The aim of the present work was to investigate whether the length, width or depth of the fistula measured on preoperative MRI was correlated with recurrence. Method Following institutional review board approval, a retrospective analysis of our prospective Complex Anal Fistula Database from 1 January 2011 to 31 August 2019 was performed. Patients with TSF who underwent preoperative MRI and LIFT were included. Fistula location was classified as anterior, posterior or lateral. MRI measurements of fistula length, width and depth (in the intersphincteric groove) were performed. The type and rate of postoperative recurrence were analysed. Results 173 patients underwent MRI for an anal fistula; of these 40 underwent LIFT and 22/40 (55%) had preoperative MRI. There was no difference in the length, width or depth of anterior (n = 9), posterior (n = 7) or lateral (n = 6) fistula tracts. The overall recurrence rate was 9/22 (41%). Posterior TSFs had the highest recurrence rate (5/7, 71%). Conclusion The mean length, width, and depth of the fistula tract, measured at the preoperative site of LIFT in the intersphincteric groove, did not correlate with recurrence regardless of fistula location.

Introduction. Complex anal fistula (CAF) is a challenging anorectal condition. Although numerous treatments for its management have been proposed, none is ideal. Herein, we investigated the clinical efficacy of video-assisted modified ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) in comparison with the incision-thread-drawing procedure for Parks type II anal fistulas. Methods. Male and female adult patients with Parks type II anal fistula who were randomized to receive one of two procedures in the Anorectal Surgery Unit of the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University: video-assisted modified LIFT (test group, 30 cases) or incision thread drawing (control group, 30 cases). Healing and recurrence, postoperative pain, and postoperative autonomous anal control ability were compared. Results. In the test group, the pain scores were significantly lower ( P = .001) and wound healing was faster ( P = .001). However, there were no marked differences between groups in operative efficacy or postoperative infection rate (all P > .05). We followed all the patients for more than 18 months, with the test group having lower Jorge–Wexner incontinence ( P = .005) and fecal incontinence (FI) severity index ( P = .000) scores. No significant difference in recurrence ( χ2 = .351, P = .554) or healing ( χ2 = 1.071, P = .301) rate was found between the 2 groups. Conclusions. We established that video-assisted modified LIFT is superior in repairing Parks type II anal fistulas, with less trauma, quicker recovery, and better anal function.

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.

Aim Fistula-in-ano (FIA) is an anomalous passage between perianal skin and the anal canal or the rectum that presents many management difficulties. Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) was introduced as a cost-effective sphincter-saving procedure with a reported success rate of 94.4%. Unfortunately, this procedure is technically challenging, and recently submucosal ligation of fistula tract (SLOFT), a simplification of LIFT, was proposed. Our aim was to assess the SLOFT technique over a longer follow-up period to determine its effectiveness. Method A prospective observational study was performed in 47 patients with FIA treated by SLOFT from September 2017 to February 2019. Results There were 47 patients, of whom 33(70.2%) were men. The median age was 39 years (range 30-50 years). All the patients had primary FIA of cryptoglandular origin. The patients were followed up for 1 year and were postoperatively assessed at 2, 4, 12 and 24 weeks and 1 year. The median body mass index was 27.3 kg/m2 (range 24.3-29.4 kg/m2 ) and the median duration of surgery was 15 min (range 13-20 min). Most (83.0%) of the fistulas were trans-sphincteric. The success rates at the end of 24 weeks and 1 year were 87.2% and 80.9%, respectively. No postoperative incontinence was recorded. Conclusion In our series the success rate of SLOFT was 80.9%. There were no sphincter-related complications. Repeat SLOFT was feasible for cases of recurrence. Therefore, SLOFT should be considered an alternative sphincter-saving procedure to LIFT for the management of FIA.

Perianal fistula is a common disease and surgery is the only treatment option. Many surgical techniques have been described. Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is a sphincter saving surgical technique in which fistula tract is ligated and excised through intersphincteric approach. The aim of study is to present our experience of first 50 LIFT procedures particularly healing rate, recurrence rate and complications from the procedure. This is a prospective observational study started from March 2018 on whom underwent LIFT procedure for primary complex perianal fistula of infective origin at Faridpur Central Hospital and Faridpur Medical College Hospital. In this study, 50 patients (42 male and 8 female) of average age of 39±7.6 years with complex fistula were included. The mean operative time was 34.7±5.67 minutes and most of the fistulas were transsphincteric variety (90%). Median wound healing time was 21.45±6.34 days for intersphincteric wound and 26.78±6.93 days for the external opening of the fistula. Mean follow up period was 10.5 months. Seven patients of our series developed recurrent fistula, making the overall success of 86%. None of the patient in our series developed incontinence. LIFT procedure has the advantage of preservation of anal sphincter, minimal tissue injury, shorter healing time, relatively easy to perform, and high success rate. It's a good choice for treatment of complex perianal fistula. Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jan 2020;15(1): 3-7

Background and Aims Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract [LIFT] and advancement flap [AF] procedures are well-established, sphincter-preserving procedures for closure of high perianal fistulas. As surgical fistula closure is not commonly offered in Crohn’s disease patients, long-term data are limited. This study aims to evaluate outcomes after LIFT and AF in Crohn’s high perianal fistulas. Methods All consecutive Crohn’s disease patients ≥18 years old treated with LIFT or AF between January 2007 and February 2018 were included. The primary outcome was clinical healing and secondary outcomes included radiological healing, recurrence, postoperative incontinence and Vaizey Incontinence Score. Results Forty procedures in 37 patients [LIFT: 19, AF: 21, 35.1% male] were included. A non-significant trend was seen towards higher clinical healing percentages after LIFT compared to AF [89.5% vs 60.0%; p = 0.065]. Overall radiological healing rates were lower for both approaches [LIFT 52.6% and AF 47.6%]. Recurrence rates were comparable: 21.1% and 19.0%, respectively. In AF a trend was seen towards higher clinical healing percentages when treated with anti-tumour necrosis factor/immunomodulators [75.0% vs 37.5%; p = 0.104]. Newly developed postoperative incontinence occurred in 15.8% after LIFT and 21.4% after AF. Interestingly, 47.4% of patients had a postoperatively improved Vaizey Score [LIFT: 52.9% and AF: 42.9%]. The mean Vaizey Score decreased from 6.8 [SD 4.8] preoperatively to 5.3 [SD 5.0] postoperatively [p = 0.067]. Conclusions Both LIFT and AF resulted in satisfactory closure rates in Crohn’s high perianal fistulas. However, a discrepancy between clinical and radiological healing rates was found. Furthermore, almost half of the patients benefitted from surgical intervention with respect to continence.

Background Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract is a sphincter-preserving technique for the treatment of anal fistulas. The BioLIFT modification involves the placement of a biologic mesh in the intersphincteric plane. Advocates of this modification state improved healing rates, however evidence for this is lacking, and this approach costs significantly more. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the healing rates of the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract with the BioLIFT. Design This was a retrospective cohort study. Settings The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from April 2008 to April 2018. Patients All adult patients with transsphincteric anal fistulas were included. Patients were excluded if they had IBD, more than 1 fistula tract operated on simultaneously, or a previous attempt at repair. Main outcome measures The primary outcome was primary healing of the fistula tract, and secondary outcomes included overall success, complications, and time to recurrence. Results There were 119 cases (75 ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract and 44 BioLIFTs). One surgeon performed 84% of the BioLIFT cases. The primary healing rate was 75.0% versus 58.7% (p = 0.08), and the complication rate was 22.7% versus 17.3% (p = 0.48; BioLIFT vs ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract). After multivariate logistic regression, the BioLIFT had a significantly better healing rate (OR = 2.38 (95% CI, 1.01-5.62); p = 0.048). Median follow-up was 9 versus 29 weeks (BioLIFT vs ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated no difference in the time to recurrence (p = 0.48). Limitations This study was limited by the retrospective nature, different lengths of follow-up, and varying case numbers between the surgeons. Conclusions The BioLIFT modification is safe and effective for the treatment of anal fistulas but has a higher cost. This modification warrants additional prospective studies to establish its benefits over the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract procedure. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B139. COMPARACION DE LIFT VERSUS BIOLIFT PARA EL TRATAMIENTO DE LA FISTULA ANAL TRANSFINTERERICA: UN ANALISIS RETROSPECTIVO: Ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica es una tecnica para preservacion del esfinter en el tratamiento de las fistulas anales. La modificacion BioLIFT implica la colocacion de una malla biologica en el plano interesfinterico. Protagonistas de la modificacion mejoraron las tasas de curacion, sin embargo, carecen evidencias definitivas y la tecnica eleva costos significativamente.Comparar las tasas de curacion de ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica con el BioLIFT.Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.Hospital de atencion de tercer nivel desde abril de 2008 hasta abril de 2018.Se incluyeron todos los pacientes adultos con fistulas anales transfinterericas. Los pacientes fueron excluidos si tenian enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal, mas de un tracto fistuloso operado simultaneamente o con un intento previo de reparacion.El resultado principal fue la curacion primaria del tracto fistuloso y los resultados secundarios incluyeron el exito en general, las complicaciones y tiempo hasta recurrencia.Se registraron 119 casos (75 ligaduras del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica y 44 BioLIFT). Un cirujano realizo el 84% de los casos de BioLIFT. La tasa de curacion primaria fue del 75.0% vs 58.7%, p = 0.08, y la tasa de complicaciones fue del 22.7% vs 17.3%, p = 0.48 comparando BioLIFT vs ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica. Despues de la regresion logistica multivariada, el BioLIFT tuvo una tasa de curacion significativamente mejor (OR 2.38 [IC 95% 1.01-5.62], p = 0.048). La mediana de seguimiento fue de 9 vs 29 semanas (BioLIFT vs ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica). El analisis de Kaplan-Meier no demostro diferencias en el tiempo hasta la recurrencia (p = 0,48).Este estudio estuvo limitado por ser retrospectivo, las diferentes duraciones de seguimiento y el numero variable de casos entre los cirujanos.La modificacion BioLIFT es segura y efectiva para el tratamiento de las fistulas anales pero tiene un costo mas alto. Esta modificacion amerita mas estudios prospectivos para establecer los beneficios sobre ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica. Consulte Video Resumen en hhttp://links.lww.com/DCR/B139.

Introduction Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is an established method for the treatment of high- and low-position anal fistulas. Numerous meta-analyzes confirm the high healing success rate with simultaneous low risk of sphincter damage. Purpose of the work 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. Material and method: Twelve patients (M-9, F-3) aged between 28 and 69 (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 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). Results 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%). Keywords: anal fistula, LIFT surgery, incontinence

COMPARISON OF MODIFIED METHOD OF LIGATION OF INTERSPHINCTERIC FISTULA TRACT (LIFT) AND STANDARD OPERATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH TRANSSPHINCTERIC RECTAL FISTULAS Kryvoruchko I.A. , Firsyk T.M.,. Bozhko O. P. Background. The search for and development of new minimally invasive methods for the surgical treatment of anal fistulas is a relevant area of surgery. Such methods combine less traumatization and preservation of the sphincter’s complex. Employment of such methods for surgical treatment of anal fistulas reduced the time of stay of patients in the hospital and improved their quality of life. Subjects and methods. A retro- and prospective study involved 58 patients with uncomplicated transsphincteric anal fistulas. All patients were treated in the hospital from January 2014 to April 2019. The patients were divided into two groups: the first group included 32 patients who were operated on according to the standard procedure using fistulotomy and Seton procedure; the second group consisted of 26 patients who were operated on using the modified LIFT method. Results. Most of these patients (72.4%) were men at the age of 42.536.79. The median of BMI was 25.7 kg/m2. There wasn’t mortality after operations. The median follow-up was 21 (6-48) weeks. In the first group there were 3 cases (9.3%) of anal sphincter insufficiency and 7 cases of recurrent fistulas (21.9%) at different times after surgery. In the second group there were no anal sphincter failure following administration of the modified method LIFT, but there were 15.4% of recurrent anal fistulas. Conclusion. The proposed modified method of ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract is an effective method for the treatment of anal fistulas. The results obtained suggest that the developed method can be used to treat other types of anal fistulas. Keywords: transsphincteric anal fistula, surgical treatment, LIFT technique, postoperative complications. Резюме. ПОРІВНЯННЯ МОДИФІКОВАНОГО МЕТОДУ ЛІГАЦІЇ ІНТЕРСФІНКТЕРНОГО ФІСТУЛЬНОГО ТРАКТУ (LIFT) ТА СТАНДАРТНИХ ОПЕРАЦІЙ У ХВОРИХ З ТРАНСФІНКТЕРНИМИ РЕКТАЛЬНИМИ СВИЩАМИ Криворучко I.A., Фірсик Т.М., Божко О. П. Вступ. Пошук та розробка нових малоінвазивних методів хірургічного лікування анальних свищів є актуальною областю хірургії. Такі методи поєднують меншу травматизацію і збереження сфінктерного комплексу прямої кишки. Застосовання таких методів хірургічного лікування анальних свищів скоротило час перебування хворих у стаціонарі і поліпшило їх якість життя. Об'єкт і методи. Ретро- і проспективне дослідження було проведено у 58 пацієнтів з неускладненими транссфінктерними анальними свищами. Всі пацієнти проходили лікування в лікарні з січня 2014 року по квітень 2019 року. Пацієнти були розділені на дві групи: перша група включала 32 пацієнтів, яких оперували за стандартною процедурою з використанням фістулотомії та процедури Сетона; другу групу склали 26 хворих, яких оперували за допомогою модифікованого нами способу лігування інтрасфінктерного фістульного тракту (LIFT). Результати. Більшість цих пацієнтів (72,4%) були чоловіками у віці 42,536,79 років. Медіана ІМТ склала 25,7 кг/м2. Після операцій летальних випадків не було. Медіана спостереження після операції склала 21 (6-48) тиждень. У першій групі ми отримали 3 випадки (9,3%) недостатності анального сфінктеру і у 7 випадках рецидив свищів (21,9%) в різний час після операції. У другій групі після застосування модифікованого методу LIFT ми не отримали жодної недостатності анального сфінктеру, але у цих пацієнтів спостерігалося 15,4% рецидивів анальних свищів. Висновок. Запропонований модифікований спосіб лігування інтрасфінктерного фістульного тракту є ефективним методом лікування анальних свищів. Отримані результати свідчать про те, що розроблений метод може бути використаний для лікування інших видів анальних свищів. Ключові слова: транссфінктерні анальні свищі, хірургічне лікування, техніка LIFT, післяопераційні ускладнення. Резюме. СРАВНЕНИЕ МОДИФИЦИРОВАННОГО МЕТОДА ЛИГАЦИИ ИНТЕРСФИНКТЕРНОГО ФИСТУЛЬНОГО ТРАКТА (LIFT) И СТАНДАРТНЫХ ОПЕРАЦИЙ У БОЛЬНЫХ С ТРАНСФИНКТЕРНИМЫ РЕКТАЛЬНЫМИ СВИЩАМИ Криворучко I.A., Фирсик Т.М., Божко А. П. Введение. Поиск и разработка новых малоинвазивных методов хирургического лечения анальных свищей является актуальной проблемой хирургии. Такие методы сочетают в себе меньшую травматизацию и сохранение сфинктерного комплекса прямой кишки. Применение таких методов хирургического лечения анальных свищей сократило время пребывания больных в стационаре и улучшило их качество жизни. Объект и методы. Ретро- и проспективное исследование было проведено у 58 пациентов с неосложненными транссфинктерными анальными свищами. Все пациенты проходили лечение в больнице с января 2014 по апрель 2019 года. Пациенты были разделены на две группы: первая группа включала 32 пациентов, оперированных по стандартной процедуре с использованием фистулотомии и процедуры Сетона; вторую группу составили 26 больных, оперированных с помощью модифицированного нами способа лигирования интрасфинктерного фистульного тракта (LIFT). Результаты. Большинство этих пациентов (72,4%) были мужчинами в возрасте 42,536,79 лет. Медиана ИМТ составила 25,7 кг/м2. После операций летальных исходов не было. Медиана наблюдения после операции составила 21 (6-48) неделю. В первой группе мы получили 3 случая (9,3%) недостаточности анального сфинктера и в 7 случаях рецидив свищей (21,9%) в разное время после операции. Во второй группе после применения модифицированного метода LIFT мы не получили ни недостаточности анального сфинктера, но у этих пациентов наблюдалось 15,4% рецидивов анальных свищей. Вывод. Предложенный модифицированный способ лигирования интрасфинктерного фистульного тракта является эффективным методом лечения анальных свищей. Полученные результаты свидетельствуют о том, что разработанный метод может быть использован для лечения других видов анальных свищей. Ключевые слова: транссфинктерные анальные свищи, хирургическое лечение, техника LIFT, послеоперационные осложнения

Background Ambulatory surgery maintains the advantages of a more rapid return to work and overall reduced hospital costs. The specific impact of ambulatory surgery for anal fistula using the LIFT procedure (ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract) is presented. Methods A total of 218 consecutive patients with anal fistula who underwent ambulatory LIFT surgery were retrospectively compared with 386 cases managed as in-patients. Patient demographics, comorbidities, postoperative morbidity and pain as well as readmission rates within 30 days and satisfaction ratings were compared between the two groups. Results When compared with patients undergoing in-patient surgery, those in the ambulatory group were younger with a better level of education (P

The development of a surgical solution for anal fistulas with minimal recurrence and morbidity remains a challenge. Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT), however, is a sphincter sparing technique that provides complete resolution of the transsphincteric fistula as well as minimizing recurrence and fecal incontinence. Our goal is to evaluate the efficacy of fistula tract ligation for primary and recurrent fistulas.A retrospective single-center case study was conducted from data between 2015 and 2019 in a large district hospital in Antwerp, Belgium. Patients who underwent LIFT were included. Demographic patient data as well as primary outcome during the follow-up period were collected. A systematic literature review and analysis was conducted with terms [ANAL FISTULA] [TREATMENT] [LIFT] [LIGATION OF INTERSPHINCTERIC FISTULA]. Primary healing and recurrence associated with surgical modifications were investigated.4 out of 25 patients presented with early failure (84% primary success rate) after a median follow-up period of 7 months. The median time until recurrence was 105 days. The success rate after a redo ligation was 100%. Twenty-eight studies were included for review and divided into three groups depending on the technical variation of the used technique. The success rate was 74.2% for the LIFT group, 72.9% in the LIFT + group, and 77.5% in the mLIFT groupLIFT is a feasible treatment option for primary and recurrent fistulas, with excellent success rates where fistula characteristics rather than chosen technique dictate the surgical outcome.

BACKGROUND Sphincter-preserving operations have been increasingly used for treating anal fistula. However, their success rates remain modest in complex anal fistulas. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to report outcomes of video-assisted ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (a procedure combining video-assisted anal fistula treatment and ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract) for treating complex anal fistulas and to compare its results with conventional ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract. DESIGN A review of prospectively collected data from October 2014 to December 2017 was performed. SETTINGS The study was conducted at a large tertiary hospital in Thailand. PATIENTS All patients with primary or recurrent complex anal fistulas undergoing video-assisted ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract were included. Patients with anal fistula related to malignancy, Crohn's disease, tuberculosis, or acute abscess were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Healing as defined by an absence of fistula or drainage from an external opening and complete epithelialization of the external opening were measured. RESULTS This study included 103 patients with a median age of 47 years. The primary healing rate was 84.5% at a median follow-up of 28 months (range, 15-38 mo). Primary healing rates of anterior high transsphincteric fistula, semi-horseshoe fistula, and horseshoe fistula were 88% (44 of 50 cases), 77% (30 of 39 cases), and 93% (13 of 14 cases). Median time to healing was 4 weeks (range, 4-8 wk). Accordingly, the overall failure rate was 15.5%. None reported worse fecal incontinence postoperatively. Video-assisted ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract had a higher rate of primary healing for complex anal fistula than ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (84.5% vs 63.4%; p < 0.001). LIMITATIONS This study is limited by its small sample size. CONCLUSIONS The outcomes of video-assisted ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract for complex anal fistulas are quite good. This technique has the potential to become another viable option of sphincter-preserving operation for complex anal fistulas. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B373. LIGADURA ASISTIDA POR VIDEO DEL TRACTO DE LA FISTULA INTERESFINTERICA PARA LA FISTULA ANAL COMPLEJA: TECNICA Y RESULTADOS PRELIMINARIES: Las operaciones de preservacion del esfinter se han utilizado cada vez mas para tratar la fistula anal. Sin embargo, sus tasas de exito siguen siendo modestas en las fistulas anales complejas.Este estudio tuvo como objetivo informar los resultados de la ligadura asistida por video del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica (un procedimiento que combina el tratamiento de la fistula anal asistida por video y la ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica) para el tratamiento de las fistulas anales complejas y comparar sus resultados con la ligadura convencional de la fistula interesfinterica tracto.Se realizo una revision de los datos recolectados prospectivamente desde Octubre de 2014 hasta Diciembre de 2017.El estudio se realizo en un gran hospital terciario en Tailandia.Se incluyeron todos los pacientes con fistulas anales complejas primarias o recurrentes sometidas a ligadura asistida por video del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica. Se excluyeron los pacientes con fistula anal relacionada con malignidad, enfermedad de Crohn, tuberculosis o absceso agudo.Curacion definida por la ausencia de fistula o drenaje de la abertura externa y la epitelizacion completa de la abertura externa.Este estudio incluyo 103 pacientes con una mediana de edad de 47 anos. La tasa de curacion primaria fue del 84,5% con una mediana de seguimiento de 28 meses (rango 15-38). La tasa de curacion primaria de la fistula transesfinterica alta anterior, la fistula semi-herradura y la fistula de herradura fue del 88% (44 de 50 casos), 77% (30 de 39 casos) y 93% (13 de 14 casos), respectivamente. El tiempo mediano hasta la curacion fue de 4 semanas (rango 4-8). En consecuencia, la tasa de fracaso general fue del 15,5%. Ninguno informo peor incontinencia fecal despues de la operacion. La ligadura asistida por video del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica tuvo una mayor tasa de curacion primaria para la fistula anal compleja que la ligadura del tracto de la fistula interesfinterica (84.5% vs 63.4%; p

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ambulatory seton placement followed by superficial fistulotomy as treatment of perianal fistula. Methods: Retrospective observational analysis of patients with cryptogenic perianal fistula aged 18-90 years, followed in a central hospital proctology consultation between 2006 and 2017. Data were obtained through clinical record's analysis. Fistula was characterized, using Parks Classification. A probe was passed through the fistula tract, followed by a seton, which remained in situ until superficial fistulotomy was possible. Results: Ninety-six patients were included (66.67% males, mean age 56 ± 15 years old). Nineteen patients (19.89%) had previous history of perianal fistula and 14 (14.58%) previous anorectal surgery. Seventy-four patients (78.72%) were submitted to fistulotomy, three (3.19%) had seton fistulotomy and one had no seton progression. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol efficacy analyses were 80.2 and 98.7%, respectively. Among the 74 patients who completed the procedure, type of fistula and time with seton were distributed as followed: 47 (63.51%) intersphincteric fistula (15 ± 31 weeks), 26 (35.14%) transsphincteric fistula (32 ± 47 weeks), one (1.35%) suprasphincteric fistula (11 weeks). Previous fistula was associated with a longer time with seton (P = 0.018). Incontinence was reported in two (2.7%) patients, who had previous perianal fistula or anorectal surgery. Two patients (2.7%) had recurrence after fistulotomy. Conclusion: Placement of seton followed by superficial fistulotomy in an ambulatory setting is a safe and effective method for simple low perianal fistula treatment. Incontinence rate may be higher in patients with previous perianal fistula or anorectal surgery. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Las fístulas anorrectales complejas son un desafío para el coloproctólogo. Son una patología frecuente que afecta la calidad de vida de los pacientes. La patogénesis aún no esta clara, estarían involucradas citoquinas y el proceso de transición de epitelio a mesénquima. El gold estandar para su estudio es la resonancia nuclear magnética, su uso por si mismo disminuye la recurrencia. El objetivo del tratamiento es lograr la curación sin afectar la función del esfínter evitando las recidivas. Existen múltiples técnicas, siendo la de mayor aceptación la ligadura interesfinteriana del trayecto fistuloso, con tasa de curación sobre el 70%, con mínimo impacto en continencia. Esta revisión incluye otras técnicas como el colgajo endorrectal de avance, uso de sellante, Permacol, células madres, Anal fistula plug, Video asisted anal fistula treatment, Over the scope clip y Fístula laser closure.

Background High perianal fistulas require sphincter-preserving surgery because of the risk of faecal incontinence. The ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) procedure preserves anal sphincter function and is an alternative to the endorectal advancement flap (AF). The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of these procedures in patients with cryptoglandular and Crohn's perianal fistulas. Methods A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library. All RCTs, cohort studies and case series (more than 5 patients) describing one or both techniques were included. Main outcomes were overall success rate, recurrence and incontinence following either technique. A proportional meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Results Some 30 studies comprising 1295 patients were included (AF, 797; LIFT, 498). For cryptoglandular fistula (1098 patients), there was no significant difference between AF and LIFT for weighted overall success (74·6 (95 per cent c.i. 65·6 to 83·7) versus 69·1 (53·9 to 84·3) per cent respectively) and recurrence (25·6 (4·7 to 46·4) versus 21·9 (14·8 to 29·0) per cent) rates. For Crohn's perianal fistula (64 patients), no significant differences were observed between AF and LIFT for overall success rate (61 (45 to 76) versus 53 per cent respectively), but data on recurrence were limited. Incontinence rates were significantly higher after AF compared with LIFT (7·8 (3·3 to 12·4) versus 1·6 (0·4 to 2·8) per cent). Conclusion Overall success and recurrence rates were not significantly different between the AF and LIFT procedure, but continence was better preserved after LIFT.

The Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) procedure is a recent sphincter-preserving procedure added to the surgical armamentarium of managing anal fistulas. It has gained popularity for its simple, easy-to-learn technique and success rate reliably exceeding 70%. Studies using validated continence scores have verified its advantage in preserving continence. The procedure is aimed at the cryptoglandular source of infection within the intersphincteric space. This is achieved through a small incision parallel to the intersphincteric groove and corresponding to the internal opening. After excision of the intersphincteric portion of the fistula tract, the openings on the internal and external sphincter are suture-ligated. Wound care is simple with minimal post-operative pain. Pre-operative imaging with endoanal ultrasonography helps to position the incision. Most failures or recurrences occur in the intersphincteric wound. This can be treated successfully with simple fistulotomy. The use of a seton before a LIFT procedure has not been proven beneficial. This technique has also been applied to Crohn׳s disease-related fistulas with similar success. Modifications to the technique using bioprosthetic inserts have also been reported to confer better results albeit at a greater cost.

Aim Published outcomes following ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) for high transsphincteric fistulas (HTFs) are equivocal probably because most trials are small and comprise mixed patient populations. The aim of this study was to highlight the long-term efficacy of LIFT for HTFs in a large homogeneous sample and to determine the risk factors that contribute to non-healing resulting in failure and recurrence. Method A retrospective study was performed which assessed patients with HTFs treated by LIFT without prior loose setons from September 2012 to December 2017. Continence function was evaluated by the Wexner incontinence scale and anal manometry. Quality of life was assessed by using the faecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) scale with four domains: lifestyle, coping, depression and embarrassment. Results Seventy patients with HTFs underwent 71 LIFT procedures. The primary healing rate was 81.7% with a median follow-up duration of 16.5 (range 4.5-68) months. The healing rates of mature and immature fistulas were 83.7% and 77.3%, respectively. Two patients suffered failure with an unhealed intersphincteric wound. Recurrence occurred in 11 patients. Incontinence of flatus, present in four patients before surgery, improved postoperatively. Two patients undergoing LIFT combined with fistulotomy complained of flatus incontinence after surgery. No significant differences between preoperative and postoperative Wexner score, maximum resting pressure and maximum squeeze pressure were detected. The FIQL was improved in lifestyle, coping and depression. No risk factor for non-healing was found. Conclusion LIFT has a promising long-term outcome for HTFs, with negligible impairment on continence and improved quality of life.

Modern treatment of chronic paraproctitis is aimed at preserving the integrity of the anal sphincter in order to reduce the risk of incontinence. One of these techniques is the operation of the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT). The data are presented in the article about the results of sphincter-saving operation of the LIFT and comparison of the effectiveness with the traditional method of treatment-fistula excision with the sphincter suture. The main and control group included 36 patients with transsphincteric fistula-in-ano. Primary recovery in the first group was 77,7 %. Disease recurrence occurred in 16,7 % cases as intersphincteric fistula, 5,6 % developed a «complete» fistula. In the second group, the relapse occurred in 25 % cases and exclusively by the type of «complete» fistula. The phenomena of incontinence were noted only in the control group.

Background Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) was developed to treat transsphincteric anal fistulas. The aftermath of a failed LIFT has not been well documented. Methods Retrospective chart review of LIFT procedure for transsphincteric anal fistula between March 2012 and September 2016. Results 53 patients with LIFT procedure were identified, 20 (37.7%) had persistent fistula with median followup of 4 months. Following LIFT, recurrence of fistula was transsphincteric (75%) or intersphincteric (25%) (p = NS). Persistent transsphincteric fistulas after LIFT were treated with seton (71.4%) followed by advancement flap (20%) or fistulotomy (50%). Of the recurrent intersphincteric fistulas, 50% underwent seton placement followed by fistulotomy, or advancement flap. Of the patients who underwent surgery after failed LIFT, 50% have had resolution of the fistula; 31.7% are still undergoing treatment. Conclusion Patients who underwent surgery after failed LIFT had 50% healing with placement of seton followed by fistulotomy or rectal advancement flap.

Objective To study the recurrence/persistence rate of complex cryptoglandular anal fistula after the LIFT procedure and analyze the patterns of recurrence/persistence. Methods Observational study of patients with transe-sphincteric or supra-sphincteric anal fistula treated using the LIFT procedure from December 2008 to April 2016. Variables studied included clinical characteristics, surgical technique and results. Clinical cure was defined and imaging studies were used in doubtful cases. Wexner's score was used for continence evaluation. The minimum follow-up time was one year. Results A total of 55 patients were operated on: 53 with a trans-sphincteric fistula and 2 supra-sphincteric. There were 16 failures (29%): 7 complete fistulas (original), 6 intersphincteric (downstage), and 3 external residual tracts. A posterior location and complexity of the tract were risk factors for recurrence/persistence. The presence of a seton did not improve results. No case presented decrease of continence (Wexner 0). Nine patients presented minor complications (9%): 4 intersphincteric wounds with delayed closure and one external hemorrhoidal thrombosis. The median time to closure of the external opening was 5 weeks (IR 2–6). Intersphincteric wounds closed in 4–8 weeks. Conclusion In our experience, the LIFT technique is a safe and reproducible procedure with low morbidity, no repercussion on continence and a success rate over 70%. There are 3 types of recurrence: the intersphincteric fistula, the original fistulatula (trans- or supra-sphincteric) and the residual external tract. Considering the types of recurrence, only 12.7% of patients need more complex surgery to solve their pathology. The rest of the recurrences/persistence was solved by simple procedures (fistulotomy in intersphincteric forms and legrado in residual tracts).

Aim Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) has been proposed as a treatment of trans-sphincteric fistula in perianal Crohn's disease (CD). The aim of this study was to look at our experience of the LIFT procedure in CD patients on long-term follow-up. Specifically, we aimed to determine the fistula healing rate after the LIFT procedure after more than 12 months follow-up and to identify any prognostic factors. Method Retrospective study of patients with trans-sphincteric Crohn's fistula tracts treated with the LIFT procedure between January 2011 and October 2015. Complete fistula healing as well as clinical outcomes were analysed. Results Data were available for 23 patients. After a median follow-up of 23 months, LIFT site healing was 48%. Patients with healed LIFT had a median follow-up time of 10.5 months, while patients with failed LIFT had a median follow-up time of 31 months (P = 0.04). Median time to failure was 9 months for patients with follow-up > 1 year. Most patients failed within 1 year (9/12; 75%) of the procedure. In multi-site CD, the LIFT procedure was more likely to be successful in those with small bowel disease (P = 0.04) compared with colonic disease (P = 0.02). Other factors such as preoperative use of biological therapies, presence of a seton, previous repair attempts, fistula position, type or number of fistulas, multiple fistula tracts, smoking status and other associated perianal disease did not appear to influence LIFT healing rates. Conclusion The LIFT procedure offers reasonable long-term success in the treatment of perianal trans-sphincteric fistulas associated with CD. LIFT is more likely to fail in patients with concurrent colonic CD than in patients with small bowel CD.

hybrid LIFT and VAAFT technique can be used concomitantlyto facilitate healing and increase the chances of success-ful surgery

Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract is a well-accepted and often used surgical procedure for perianal fistulas.This study aims to confirm results of the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract in a specialized colorectal center.This is a retrospective cohort study.This study took place in a large colorectal surgical department with a tertiary referral center for perianal fistulas.Consecutive patients were operated on with ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract for a transsphincteric perianal fistula between 2012 and December 2018.Patients underwent ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract.The primary outcome measured was the healing rate. The secondary outcomes measured were conversion into an intersphincteric perianal fistula, risk of recurrence, complications, and postoperative continence status.Forty-six patients were treated with a ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract procedure. All patients (100%) had preoperative imaging in their workup. Forty patients (87%) had a high transsphincteric fistula. The primary healing rate was a disappointing 17 of 46 patients (37%). The median time until failure was 4.2 months (interquartile range, 3.5-6.5). Of the failures, 16 converted to an intersphincteric fistula (55% of failures and 35% of all patients). The mean duration of follow-up in patients without a recurrence was 9.5 months (SD 11.9). Four patients (9%) were lost to follow-up. The mean Fecal Incontinence Severity Index postoperatively was only 2.35 (SD 5.7; range, 0-30). This resulted in 9 patients (20%) having a newly impaired continence status postoperatively. Continence impairment was mild in all these patients. The risk of developing a recurrence 1 year after surgery is 64.2% (95% CI, 49%-80%).This study was limited by its retrospective design and the small numbers with possible selection bias.Results with the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract procedure were not as good as hoped. The effect on fecal continence, however, was minimal. The procedure might be more suitable for low transsphincteric fistulas. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A992. LA LIGADURA DEL TRACTO DE LA FÍSTULA INTERESFINTÉRICA PARA UNA FÍSTULA TRANSESFINTÉRICA ALTA, PRODUCE RESULTADOS MODERADOS EN EL MEJOR DE LOS CASOS: ¿ESTÁ CAMBIANDO LA MAREA?: La ligadura del tracto de la fístula interesfintérica es un procedimiento quirúrgico bien aceptado y de uso frecuente para las fístulas perianales.Confirmar los resultados de la ligadura del tracto de la fístula interesfintérica en un centro colorrectal especializado. DISEÑO:: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.Gran departamento de cirugía colorrectal y con centro de referencia terciaria para fístulas perianales.Pacientes consecutivos operados con ligadura del tracto de la fístula interesfintérica para una fístula perianal transesfintérica, entre 2012 y diciembre de 2018.Ligadura del tracto de fístula interesfintérica.Tasa de cicatrización, resultados secundarios: conversión a una fístula perianal interesfintérica, riesgo de recurrencia, complicaciones y estado de continencia postoperatoria.Cuarenta y seis pacientes fueron tratados con una ligadura del tracto de la fístula interesfintérica. Todos los pacientes (100 por ciento) tenían imagenología en su preparación preoperatoria. Cuarenta pacientes (87 por ciento) tenían una fístula transesfintérica alta. La tasa de cicatrización primaria fue decepcionante en 17 de 46 pacientes (37 por ciento). El tiempo medio hasta el fracaso fue de 4.2 meses (rango intercuartil 3.5-6.5). De los fracasos, 16 se convirtieron en una fístula interesfintérica (55 por ciento de los fracasos y 35 por ciento de todos los pacientes). La duración media del seguimiento en pacientes sin recurrencia fue de 9.5 meses (desviación estándar de 11.9). Se perdieron durante el seguimiento a cuatro pacientes (9 por ciento). Después de la operación, el promedio del índice de severidad de incontinencia fecal fue de solo 2.35 (desviación estándar de 5.7, rango 0-30). Esto resultó en que 9 pacientes (20 por ciento) tuvieran una continencia deteriorada postoperatoria. El deterioro de la continencia fue leve en todos estos pacientes. El riesgo de desarrollar una recurrencia a un año después de la cirugía es del 64.2 por ciento (intervalo de confianza del 95 por ciento: 49-80 por ciento).Diseño retrospectivo, números pequeños con posible sesgo de selección.Los resultados del procedimiento con la ligadura del tracto de fístula interesfintérica no fueron tan buenos como se esperaba. El efecto sobre la continencia fecal, sin embargo, fue mínimo. El procedimiento podría ser más adecuado para las fístulas transesfintéricas bajas. Vea el Resumen del video en http://links.lww.com/DCR/A992.

To assess the outcome of ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) and bioprosthetic graft (BioLIFT) in the management of transsphincteric perianal fistula. A single-institution retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing LIFT and BioLIFT from January 2009 to June 2018 was performed. Only patients who had LIFTs and BioLIFT performed as their primary sphincter-preserving procedure was included. Primary outcome measured was primary healing. Secondary outcomes measured were secondary healing, morbidity, time to recurrence, and pre- and post-operative anorectal manometry. Chi-square analysis was used to determine predictive factors. A total of 116 patients were identified. One hundred five had LIFT and 11 had BioLIFT. The total primary healing rate was 60.3% (62.9% and 34.9% for LIFT and BioLIFT respectively). The overall secondary healing rate was 80.2% (80.0% and 81.9% for LIFT and BioLIFT respectively). There was no inpatient morbidity or post-procedural faecal incontinence reported. There was no significant change in the pre- and post-operative manometries in either group (P = 0.417 and P = 0.834 for LIFT and BioLIFT respectively). The only predictor for primary failure identified was anteriorly located fistula. LIFT and BioLIFT compare favourably with other sphincter-preserving procedures. LIFT and BioLIFT can be performed safely, with minimal morbidity and with no reported loss of sphincteric function.

Background Perianal fistula represents an aggressive phenotype of Crohn’s disease (CD), and is detected in CD patients without perianal complains. Data of CD patients with asymptomatic perianal fistula is scarce. Our study targets to assess the clinical characteristics of adult CD patients with asymptomatic perianal fistulas in adults with CD. Methods This retrospectively study collected data from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. Newly diagnosed CD patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging examinations during 2014–2019 were enrolled. The perianal fistulizing CD patients were divided into two groups: 1) symptomatic perianal fistula group, 2) asymptomatic perianal fistula group, then we analyze the features of clinical features, medication and prognosis of each group. Results Among 437 CD patients, 346 (79.2%) had perianal fistulas whereas 91 (20.8%) did not. In patients with perianal fistulas, 89 (25.7%) did not have perianal symptoms. Comparing to symptomatic perianal fistula group, asymptomatic perianal fistula group combined with lower perianal abscess incidence (73.9% vs. 25.8%, p < 0.001). According to Park’s classification, the most common type of fistula in these two groups was intersphincteric fistula (73.2% vs. 53.2% p=0.094). Patients with asymptomatic perianal fistulas were described by the following features when compared with patients with symptomatic perianal fistulas: higher rate of female sex (38.2% vs. 17.9%, p < 0.001), shorter disease duration at enrolment (0.8 vs. 1.0 years, p = 0.001), higher rate of stricturing behavior (32.6% vs. 18.7%, p < 0.01), worse outcomes of laboratory examinations at diagnosis, including hemoglobin (119.0 vs. 131.0 g/dL, p < 0.001), platelet (333.0 vs. 283.0 *10^9, p < 0.001), ESR (20.0 vs. 14.0 mm/H, p < 0.01), albumin (35.6 vs. 37.5 g/L, p = 0.001), C-reactive protein (27.3 vs. 15.7 mg/L, p = 0.001). The age at diagnosis and disease locations were not different. For asymptomatic perianal fistula patients, antibiotics (57.3%) and surgery (6.7%) were taken at diagnosis. The usage of biologics at diagnosis showed no difference (59.6% vs. 40.4% p=0.108). Regarding clinical outcomes, the cumulative probabilities for bowel surgery (p < 0.05) and bowel obstruction (p < 0.01) in asymptomatic perianal fistula group were higher than symptomatic perianal fistula group. Conclusion Asymptomatic perianal fistulas account for a certain proportion. Female sex, shorter disease duration, stricturing behavior and poor outcomes of laboratory examinations at diagnosis are associated with detection of asymptomatic perianal fistulas. We should pay more attention to CD patients with asymptomatic perianal fistulas because they may have poor prognosis or even worse as patients with symptomatic perianal fistulas.

Background: Fistula-in-ano is a very common condition encountered in proctology OPD. The treatment of fistula-in-ano is difficult due to potential risk of recurrence and fecal incontinence. Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistulous Tract is new modality of treatment for the condition. LIFT is a sphincter preserving surgery, aim of our study to evaluate the effectiveness of LIFT surgery.Methods: We did LIFT surgery in 35 cases of intersphincteric and transsphincteric types of fistula-in-ano during the period of December 2019 to July 2020. Standard investigation protocol was followed in all cases. Evaluation of effectiveness of procedure done in terms of anal incontinence, wound healing time, recurrence rate and wound infection rate.Results: 35 patients (23 men, 12 women) were included with mean age of 40 SD 10.38 years. Most of study population have Inter sphincteric fistula (62.9%), and 37.1% participants have trans sphincteric fistula. Healing time was 10-15 days (42.9%) and mean healing time is 17 SD 4.25 days. We didn’t see a single case of anal incontinence with LIFT in our study. 6 cases of recurrence were seen.Conclusions: Result from our study showed that LIFT surgery is effective modality and fulfilling the outcome of sphincter preservation.