Total anal sphincter saving technique for fistula-in-ano; the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract.

Rojanasakul, Arun; Pattanaarun, Jirawat; Sahakitrungruang, Chucheep; Tantiphlachiva, Kasaya

Total anal sphincter saving technique for fistula-in-ano; the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract.

Date

2007-03-13

Authors

Rojanasakul, Arun

Pattanaarun, Jirawat

Sahakitrungruang, Chucheep

Tantiphlachiva, Kasaya

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe a new technique for fistula-in-ano surgery aimed at total sphincter preservation, and evaluate the preliminary results concerning non-healing and intact anal function. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A prospective observational study in eighteen fistula-in-ano patients treated by ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) technique, from January to June 2006. RESULTS: Fistula-in-ano in seventeen patients healed primarily (94.4%). There was one non-healing case (5.6%). The mean healing time was four weeks. None had disturbances in clinical anal continence. CONCLUSION: The early outcome of the LIFT technique is quite impressive. Results warrant a larger study with long-term evaluation. This technique has the potential to become a viable option for fistula-in-ano surgery.

Description

Chotmaihet Thangphaet.

Citation

Rojanasakul A, Pattanaarun J, Sahakitrungruang C, Tantiphlachiva K. Total anal sphincter saving technique for fistula-in-ano; the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand. 2007 Mar; 90(3): 581-6