Total anal sphincter saving technique for fistula-in-ano; the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract
Rojanasakul, A.; Pattanaarun, J.; Sahakitrungruang, C.; Tantiphlachiva, K.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 90(3): 581-586
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 17427539 Document Number: 2943
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.
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