Assessing the suitability of video-assisted anal fistula treatment for obese patients compared to conventional surgery: a question worth investigating.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) is an innovative surgical approach enabling the direct visualization of the fistula tract structure. This study aims to assess the efficacy of VAAFT in comparison with that of traditional surgical methods and explore potential risk factors contributing to fistula recurrence to provide new recommendations for surgical selection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Information was collected from 100 patients with complex anal fistula (CAF) in our hospital who underwent surgical treatment from January 2021 to January 2023. We compared the baseline information and surgical outcomes of two groups, analyzed the risk factors for fistula recurrence by using logistic regression analysis, and conducted further exploration by using the body mass index. RESULTS: Equal numbers of patients underwent VAAFT and traditional surgeries, and no significant differences in baseline information were observed. Patients who received VAAFT experienced less intraoperative bleeding (15.5 (14.0-20.0) vs. 32.0 (25.0-36.0)), shorter hospital stays (2.0 (2.0-2.5) vs. 3.0 (3.0-3.5)), reduced postoperative pain and wound discharge, but longer operative times (43.3 ± 6.9 vs. 35.0 (31.5-40.0)) compared with patients who underwent traditional surgeries. No significant differences in recurrence rates were found three and six months after operation (the p-values were 0.790 and 0.806, respectively). However, the Wexner scores of the VAAFT group were significantly low in the first follow-up (0 (0-1.0) vs. 2.0 (1.0-2.0)). Postoperative recurrence of fistulas may be associated with obesity (p-value = 0.040), especially in patients undergoing traditional surgeries (p-value = 0.036). CONCLUSION: VAAFT offers advantages, such as less pain, less trauma, and faster recovery, compared with traditional surgical treatment. Obese patients with CAF are prone to recurrence, and we recommend that they undergo VAAFT treatment rather than traditional surgeries.

Subtotal fistulectomy and sliding anoderm flap: A new sphincter-sparing technique for anal fistula.

AIM: The underlying causes of failure or recurrence after ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract are postulated to be refistulization, breakdown of the closure wound in the intersphincteric plane and faecal contents entering the internal opening, thereby causing recurrent infection. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the outcomes of subtotal fistulectomy with sliding anoderm flaps to prevent refistulization. METHOD: This retrospective study used prospectively collected data. Patients with transsphincteric or intersphincteric fistulas were enrolled between August 2021 and July 2023. An anal manometric study was performed before and after surgery. Faecal incontinence was evaluated using the faecal incontinence severity index (FISI). Failure was defined as nonhealing of the surgical wound or fistula. RESULTS: Fifty-one patients who underwent subtotal fistulectomy with a sliding anoderm flap were included. After a median follow-up of 12 months (range 4-27 months), primary healing was achieved in 49 patients (96%). Two patients experienced treatment failure, while none developed postoperative recurrence. The median healing time was 10 weeks (range 6-24 weeks). The FISI scores did not change significantly after the surgery. The median resting pressure significantly reduced after surgery [125 cmH2O (range 59-204 cmH2O) vs. 99 cmH2O (range 36-176 cmH2O); p = 0.0001]. The median squeeze pressure significantly decreased after surgery [356 cmH2O (range 137-579 cmH2O) vs. 329 cmH2O (range 72-594 cmH2O; p = 0.005)]. CONCLUSION: Subtotal fistulectomy with a sliding anoderm flap showed excellent healing rates with no postoperative deterioration of anal function.

The development of a cryptoglandular anal fistula quality of life scale (AF-QoL).

AIM: Quality of life (QoL) is a crucial and core outcome in assessing the effectiveness of treatments for cryptoglandular anal fistula. Despite its extensive impact, there is a lack of patient-centred, disease-specific QoL measurement instruments of adequate quality. The aim of this study is to develop a disease-specific measurement instrument that can accurately measure QoL for patients with cryptoglandular anal fistula. METHOD: Semi-structured qualitative patient interviews and a systematic review of current instruments were used to generate items for the draft instrument. This underwent successive rounds of cognitive interviews to refine its wording and structure. Individual item and overall scale content validity were determined by asking experts to rate the relevance of each item and those deemed irrelevant were removed. The final instrument then underwent psychometric testing and test-retest analysis to determine its sensitivity and stability. RESULTS: A total of 148 patients were involved in item generation, scale development and psychometric testing. A 22-item measurement instrument has been developed; it is scored on a scale of 0-100, where 0 indicates the worst QoL and 100 demonstrates perfect QoL. The scale demonstrates excellent internal consistency (Cronbach-α = 0.927), strong content and construct validity [correlation with Perianal Disease Activity Index = -0.713, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Anxiety (-0.659) and Depression (-0.673) subscales and Short Form-12 physical (0.609) and mental (0.589) component scales] and strong reliability and responsiveness. CONCLUSION: We have developed a cryptoglandular Anal Fistula Quality of Life scale (AF-QoL), a comprehensive, disease-specific patient reported outcome measure assessing QoL in patients with cryptoglandular anal fistula.

Exploring methods of improving patient understanding and communication in a complex anal fistula clinic: results from a randomized controlled feasibility study.

AIM: Patient understanding of disease can guide decision-making in the management of anal fistula. This prospective feasibility study aimed to assess the acceptability and methods of assessing the impact of viewing realistic models on patients with anal fistula. METHODS: New referrals to a tertiary clinic participated in this single-centre, parallel-group randomized controlled study. Baseline characteristics, Decisional Conflict Scale and understanding of disease were assessed pre-consultation. Participants were randomized to a standard consultation, where disease and treatment options were explained using magnetic resonance images and drawn diagrams, or a similar consultation supplemented with an appropriate generic three-dimensional (3D) printed model. Understanding of disease and proposed surgery, Decisional Conflict Scale and ratings of visual aids were assessed post-consultation, along with 3D model feedback. RESULTS: All 52 patients who were approached agreed to be randomized (25 standard, 27 3D consultation). Understanding of disease increased post-consultation in both groups. Post-consultation decisional conflict (0, no; 100, high decisional conflict) was low (median 27 post-standard vs. 24 post-3D consultation). Patients scored highly on measures assessing understanding of proposed surgery. 3D models were rated highly, with 96% of patients wanting to see them again in future consultations. CONCLUSIONS: Three-dimensional printed fistula models are a welcome addition to outpatient consultations with results suggesting that understanding of surgery is improved. A future trial should be powered to detect whether 3D models result in a significant improvement in understanding beyond traditional methods of explanation and explore the conditions in which models have their maximal utility. GOV REGISTRATION ID: This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04069728). Registered on 23 August 2019.

Protocol of the LATFIA trial (Laser Assisted Treatment of Fistula in Ano): a multicentre, prospective, randomized controlled trial comparing fistula-tract laser closure (FiLaC™) with rectal advancement flap for high trans-sphincteric fistulas.

AIM: Anal fistula is one of the most common anal diseases, affecting between 1 and 3 per 10 000 people per year. Symptoms have a potentially severe effect on a patient's quality of life. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment, aiming to cure the fistula and preserve anal sphincter function. Rectal advancement flap (RAF) is currently the gold standard treatment but has recurrence rates varying between 20% and 50% and might lead to disturbance of continence. The aim of the trial described in this work is to discover if the minimally invasive fistula tract laser closure (FiLaC™) technique could achieve higher healing rates and a better functional outcome than RAF. METHOD: We will perform a randomized prospective multicentre noninferiority study of the treatment of high trans-sphincteric perianal fistulas, comparing FiLaC™ with RAF in terms of fistula healing, recurrence rate, functional outcome and quality of life. Primary and secondary fistula healing will be evaluated at 26 and 52 weeks' follow-up. Quality of life will be evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire, the Faecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale questionnaire and the Vaizey score at 3, 6, 12 and 26 weeks postoperatively. CONCLUSION: High trans-sphincteric fistulas have a potentially severe effect on a patient's quality of life. Classical treatment with RAF is a time-consuming invasive procedure. The LATFIA trial aims to compare FiLaC™ with the gold standard treatment with RAF. In case of noninferiority, FiLaC™ treatment could be standardized as a first line treatment for high trans-sphincteric fistulas. Better conservation of the patient's anal sphincter function could possibly be obtained. Likewise, we will report on the postoperative quality of life when applying these two techniques.

Video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) combined with ozonide oil dressing: standardization of technique in pediatric patients.

BACKGROUND: Anal fistula and perianal abscess are commonly acquired anorectal pathologies in children. Surgical treatment options commonly adopted are fistulotomy, fistulectomy, cutting seton placement, and more recently video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT). Optimal postoperative wound dressing remains debated. This study aimed to report our series of pediatric patients, who received VAAFT and postoperative wound dressing using ozonide oil. METHODS: All patients who underwent VAAFT between August 2018 and May 2023 were included in the study. Demographics, clinical features, pre-operative imaging, surgical details, outcome, and mid-term outcome data were retrospectively reviewed for each patient. All VAAFT procedures were performed under general anesthesia and using a 10-Ch fistuloscope. RESULTS: Thirty-three VAAFT procedures were performed in 30 patients over the study period. The median patient age was 5.7 years (range 1.75-14). Anal fistula was idiopathic in 26/30 (86.6%), iatrogenic in 2/30 (6.7%), and secondary to Crohn's disease in 2/30 (6.7%). The median duration of surgery was 23 min (range 18-40). All patients received ozonide oil dressing twice a day for 5 weeks postoperatively. The median hospital stay was 24 h (range 9-36). The median healing time was 28 days (range 17-39). With a median follow-up of 2 years (range 0.5-5), disease recurrence occurred in 3/30 (10%) patients with idiopathic fistula, who were re-operated using the same technique, with no further recurrence. No fecal incontinence or soiling was observed. CONCLUSION: Our series confirmed that VAAFT is a safe and effective technique to treat children with perianal fistula. The technique is versatile, allowing to treat fistulae of different etiologies. Postoperative course was painless and fast. Future comparative prospective studies are needed to better establish these conclusions.

Postoperative pain following laser fistula closure versus ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract: A prospective double-blinded randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Prior studies focus primarily on surgical outcomes of anal fistula treatment, such as healing rates, rather than patient-reported outcomes, such as postoperative pain, which could influence surgical choice. OBJECTIVE: To compare pain scores at 6 and 24 h postoperatively between laser closure and ligation of the intersphincteric tract for anal fistula. DESIGN: Prospective, double-blinded randomized controlled trial. SETTINGS: A quaternary hospital in Malaysia. PATIENTS: Patients aged 18-75 years with high transsphincteric fistulas. INTERVENTION: Fistula laser closure versus ligation of the fistula tract (LIFT) treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Pain scores, continence, quality of life (QOL), operative time, and treatment failure were compared using chi-square, Fisher's exact test, student t-test, or Mann-Whitney with p < 0.05 denoting statistical significance. RESULTS: Fifty-six patients were recruited (laser, n = 28, LIFT, n = 28). Median pain scores for laser versus LIFT at 6 h postoperatively were 1.0 versus 2.0 (Rest, p = 0.213) and 3.0 versus 4.0 (Movement, p = 0.448), respectively. At 24 h, this reduced to 2.5 in both arms at rest (p = 0.842) but increased to 4.8 versus 3.5 on movement (p = 0.383). Median operative time for laser was significantly shorter (32.5 min) than LIFT (p < 0.001). Laser treated patients trended toward quicker return to work (10.5 vs. 14.0, p = 0.181) but treatment failure was similar (54% vs. 50%, p = 0.71). No patients developed postoperative incontinence. Mean SF-36 scores increased from baseline (67.1 ± 17.0; 95% CI 63.6-82.4 vs. 71.3 ± 11.4; 95% CI 64.0-75.0) to 6 months postoperatively (77.7 ± 21.0; 95% CI 57.0-80.3 vs. 74.0 ± 14.3; 95% CI 67.6-81.4) regardless of the type of surgery (P > 0.05). LIMITATIONS: Patients with prior fistula surgery (approximately 20%) led to heterogeneity. The total laser energy delivered varied depending on fistula anatomy. CONCLUSION: Laser fistula closure is an alternative to LIFT, with similar postoperative pain and shorter operative time despite more complex fistula anatomy in the laser arm, with a greater improvement in QOL. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06212739.

Dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging in identifying active anal fistula after surgery.

BACKGROUND: It is challenging to identify residual or recurrent fistulas from the surgical region, while MR imaging is feasible. The aim was to use dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging (DCE-MRI) technology to distinguish between active anal fistula and postoperative healing (granulation) tissue. METHODS: Thirty-six patients following idiopathic anal fistula underwent DCE-MRI. Subjects were divided into Group I (active fistula) and Group IV (postoperative healing tissue), with the latter divided into Group II (≤ 75 days) and Group III (> 75 days) according to the 75-day interval from surgery to postoperative MRI reexamination. MRI classification and quantitative analysis were performed. Correlation between postoperative time intervals and parameters was analyzed. The difference of parameters between the four groups was analyzed, and diagnostic efficiency was tested by receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS: Wash-in rate (WI) and peak enhancement intensity (PEI) were significantly higher in Group I than in Group II (p = 0.003, p = 0.040), while wash-out rate (WO), time to peak (TTP), and normalized signal intensity (NSI) were opposite (p = 0.031, p = 0.007, p = 0.010). Area under curves for discriminating active fistula from healing tissue within 75 days were 0.810 in WI, 0.708 in PEI, 0.719 in WO, 0.783 in TTP, 0.779 in NSI. All MRI parameters were significantly different between Group I and Group IV, but not between Group II and Group III, and not related to time intervals. CONCLUSION: In early postoperative period, DCE-MRI can be used to identify active anal fistula in the surgical area. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2000033072.

Use of 3D Anorectal Ultrasonography in the Preoperative Assessment of Complex Anal Fistulas and Patterns of Healing, Failure, and Recurrence After Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT).

OBJECTIVES: To use three-dimensional anorectal ultrasonography (3D-US) to evaluate the outcome of ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) in patients with crypto-glandular transsphincteric fistula and describing the patterns of healing, failure, and recurrence rate. METHODS: After classifying the fistula and determining the length of the sphincter muscle to be transected, the patients were submitted to LIFT. The accuracy of pre- and postoperative 3D-US with 360° endoprobe (16 MHz) with automatic scanning and clinical findings was evaluated against surgical findings. Three outcomes were considered: healing, failure (persistent anal fistula through the original external opening or intersphincteric), and recurrence (reappearance of the anal fistula). RESULTS: Sixty-three patients of both sexes were evaluated. The 3D-US assessment revealed primary healing in 50 (79.3%) patients, although in 6 (9.5%) cases healing was delayed and the cavity was without communication with the anal canal. The procedure failed in 9 (15.9%) and fistula recurred in 4 (6.3%), all of whom underwent a second surgery based on a new 3D-US, resulting in a 92.3% (12/13) healing rate on 3D-US. CONCLUSIONS: A 3D-US was found to be useful in the preoperative assessment of fistulas by quantifying the percentage of muscle to be transected, and in the postoperative assessment by identifying healing, types of failure, and recurrence. The 3D-US was accurate and consistent with surgical findings.

Efficacy of injection of autologous adipose tissue in the treatment of patients with complex and recurrent fistula-in-ano of cryptoglandular origin.

BACKGROUND: Adipose tissue injections, a rich source of mesenchymal stem cells, have been successfully used to promote anal fistula healing. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of adipose tissue injection in treating patients with complex and recurrent fistulas of cryptoglandular origin. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, single-center, open-label, non-randomized, interventional clinical trial from January 2020 to December 2022. We enrolled nine patients, who were evaluated after at least 12 months of follow-up. All patients had seton removal, fistula tract excision or curettage, and a mucosal flap if possible or, alternatively, an internal opening suture. We used a commercially available system to collect and process adipose tissue prior to injection. This system allowed the collection, microfragmentation, and filtration of tissue. RESULTS: Selected cases included six men and three women with a median age of 42 (range 31-55) years. All patients had an extended disease course period, ranging from 3 to 13 (mean 6.6) years, and a history of multiple previous surgeries, including two to eight interventions (a mean of 4.4 per case). All fistulas were high transsphincteric, four cases horseshoe and two cases with secondary suprasphincteric or peri-elevator tract fistulas. Six cases (66%) achieved complete fistula healing at a mean follow-up of 18 (range 12-36) months. Three cases (33.3%) experienced reduced secretion and decreased anal discomfort. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with complex and recurrent fistulas, such as the ones described, many from palliative treatments with setons, the adjuvant injection of adipose tissue might help achieve complete healing or improvement in a significant percentage of cases. CLINICALTRIALS: The study protocol was prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04750499).

Simplified dressing change after surgery for high anal fistula: A prospective, single centre randomized controlled study on loose combined cutting seton (LCCS) technique.

BACKGROUND: Dressing change is the most important part of postoperative wound care. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a more effective, simple and less painful method of dressing change for anal fistulas could be found without the need for debridement and packing. Data related to postoperative recovery were recorded at postoperative days 3, 7, 14, 21 and 180. METHODS: In this experiment, 76 subjects diagnosed with high anal fistula were randomly divided into a simplified dressing change (SDC) group and a traditional debridement dressing change(TDDC) group according to a ratio of 1:1. RESULTS: The SDC group had significantly fewer pain scores, bleeding rates, dressing change times, inpatient days and lower average inpatient costs than the TDDC group. There were no significant differences in wound healing time, area and depth and Wexner score between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Studies have shown that the use of simplified dressing changes does not affect cure or recurrence rates, but significantly reduces dressing change times and pain during changes, reducing patient inpatient length of stay and costs.

Effects of loose combined cutting seton surgery on wound healing and pain in patients with high anal fistula: A meta-analysis.

A meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of loose combined cutting seton surgery on wound healing and pain in patients with high anal fistula, aiming to provide evidence-based medical evidence for surgical method selection for these patients. A comprehensive computerized search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases was conducted to collect all relevant studies published up to November 2023, evaluating the effects of loose combined cutting seton surgery in treating patients with high anal fistulas. Two researchers independently screened, extracted data, and assessed the quality of the identified studies. RevMan 5.4 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 16 articles were included, comprising 1124 patients, with 567 undergoing loose combined cutting seton surgery and 557 undergoing simple cutting seton surgery. The analysis revealed patients undergoing loose combined cutting seton surgery had a higher rate of postoperative wound healing (97.44% vs. 81.69%, odds ratio [OR]: 7.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.29-13.10, p < 0.00001), shorter wound healing time (standardized mean differences [SMD]: -1.48, 95% CI: -1.89 to -1.08, p < 0.00001), lower postoperative wound pain scores (SMD: -2.51, 95% CI: -3.51 to -1.51, p < 0.00001), and a lower rate of postoperative complications (3.43% vs. 20.83%, OR: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.05-0.31, p < 0.00001). The current evidence suggests that compared to simple cutting seton surgery, loose combined cutting seton surgery in treating high anal fistulas can promote postoperative wound healing, shorten wound healing time, alleviate pain, and reduce the incidence of postoperative complications, making it a worthy clinical practice for widespread application.

Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract as an Emergency Treatment for Cryptoglandular Anal Fistula.

Introduction: Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) is a sphincter-preserving procedure for treating anal fistula of cryptoglandular origin. Our prospective study aimed to determine the postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing LIFT in emergency and elective settings. Methods: This was a single-centre prospective observational study of the LIFT procedure for the treatment of anal fistulas. The differences in the 6-month postoperative outcomes between the emergency and elective procedures were analysed, including the healing rate, healing time, recurrence rate, recurrence time, postoperative complications and length of hospital stay. Results: Twenty-two patients were recruited for this study: 11 patients underwent LIFT as an emergency procedure (EM-LIFT), while the others underwent LIFT as an elective procedure (EL-LIFT). The healing rate for the EM-LIFT group was 90.9% (n = 10), with a median healing time of 2 months (range 0.5-4). For the EL-LIFT group, the healing rate was 100% (n = 11), with the same median healing time of 2 months (range 0.5-4). Two of the patients in the EM-LIFT group developed recurrence, with a median recurrence time of 5 months (range 4-6) and three developed recurrence in the EL-LIFT group, with the same median recurrence time of 5 months (range 4-6). There were minor postoperative complications of pain and subcutaneous infection, with no faecal incontinence. There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative outcomes between the groups. Conclusion: EM-LIFT is a feasible and safe primary procedure for active cryptoglandular-type anal fistulas.

Postoperative three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound findings and relation to anal fistula plug failure.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the utilization of three-dimensional (3D) endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) for the follow-up of the anal fistula plug (AFP), describe morphological findings in postoperative 3D EAUS, and evaluate if postoperative 3D EAUS combined with clinical symptoms can predict AFP failure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 3D EAUS examinations performed during a single-centre study of prospectively included consecutive patients treated with the AFP between May 2006 and October 2009. Postoperative assessment by clinical examination and 3D EAUS was performed at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6-12 months ("late control"). Long-term follow-up was carried out in 2017. The 3D EAUS examinations were blinded and analysed by two observers using a protocol with defined relevant findings for different follow-up time points. RESULTS: A total of 95 patients with a total of 151 AFP procedures were included. Long-term follow-up was completed in 90 (95%) patients. Inflammation at 3 months, gas in fistula and visible fistula at 3 months and at late control, were statistically significant 3D EAUS findings for AFP failure. The combination of gas in fistula and clinical finding of fluid discharge through the external fistula opening 3 months postoperatively was statistically significant (p < 0.001) for AFP failure with 91% sensitivity and 79% specificity. The positive predictive value was 91%, while the negative predictive value was 79%. CONCLUSIONS: 3D EAUS may be utilized for the follow-up of AFP treatment. Postoperative 3D EAUS at 3 months or later, especially if combined with clinical symptoms, can be used to predict long-term AFP failure.ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03961984.

Study on the factors influencing the prognosis after perianal abscess surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To study the influence of clinical characteristics and diagnosis and treatment methods of perianal abscess on postoperative recurrence or formation of anal fistula to provide a basis for selecting appropriate surgical and inspection methods for clinical treatment of perianal abscess in the future. METHODS: The clinical data of 394 patients with perianal abscesses were collected, the influencing factors were investigated, and univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to further determine the risk factors affecting the prognosis of perianal abscess. RESULTS: The results showed that the rate of preoperative blood routine results in the uncured group was higher (51.16%) than in the cured group (35.61%); the rate of high abscess space in the uncured group (23.26%) was higher than in the cured group (9.11%); the proportion of patients in the uncured group who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before surgery (27.90%) was lower than in the cured group (45.30%); the proportion of patients in the uncured group who underwent simple drainage (51.16%) was higher than in the cured group (28.49%). The two groups had significant differences in perineal MRI examination, surgical method, preoperative blood routine, and abscess space (p = 0.030, p = 0.002, p = 0.047 and p = 0.010, respectively). Based on the results of univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis, the extent of the abscess cavity (OR = 2.544, 95%CI = 1.087-5.954, p = 0.031) and the surgical method (OR = 2.180, 95%CI = 1.091-4.357, p = 0.027) were independent influencing factors for postoperative recurrence of perianal abscess or anal fistula. CONCLUSION: Preoperative assessment of the abscess range and precise intraoperative methods to resolve the infection of the abscess glands in the internal mouth can effectively improve the cure rate.

Three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound is a practical tool for the assessment of anal fistula.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the diagnostic value of three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound in the preoperative assessment of anal fistula compared with findings of MRI and surgery. METHODS: A total of 67 patients (62 males) with suspected anal fistula were analyzed retrospectively. Preoperative three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging were performed in all patients. The number of internal openings and the type of fistula were recorded. The accuracy of three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound was determined by comparing these parameters with surgical outcomes. RESULTS: At surgery, 5 (6%) were extrasphincteric, 10 (12%) were suprasphincteric, 11 (14%) were intersphincteric, and 55 (68%) were transsphincteric. There was no significant difference in the accuracy of pelvic 3D US and MRI, based on internal openings (97.92%, 94.79%), anal fistulas (97.01%, 94.03%), and those under Parks classification (97.53%, 93.83%). CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound is a reproducible and accurate method for determining the type of fistula and detecting internal openings and anal fistulas.

Enhancing surgical precision: unveiling the impact of preoperative colonoscopy in anal fistula patients.

BACKGROUND: Anal fistula is a common benign anorectal disease that often requires surgical intervention for effective treatment. In recent years, preoperative colonoscopy as a diagnostic tool in patients with anal fistula has garnered increasing attention due to its potential clinical application value. By investigating underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), polyps, and other abnormalities, preoperative colonoscopy can offer insights to refine surgical strategies and improve patient outcomes. METHODS: This retrospective study focused on 1796 patients with various benign anorectal diseases who underwent preoperative intestinal endoscopy and met surgical criteria within the preceding three years at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Among these patients, 949 diagnosed with anal fistula comprised group A, while 847 patients without anal fistula were assigned to group B for comparison. The investigation encompassed an analysis of general patient information, endoscopic findings, polyp histopathology, distribution of bowel inflammation sites, and results of inflammatory bowel disease assessments between the two patient cohorts. A subgroup analysis was also conducted on 2275 anal fistula patients with no surgical contraindications. This subgroup was categorized into Group A (949 patients who underwent preoperative intestinal endoscopy) and Group C (1326 patients who did not undergo preoperative colonoscopy). The study compared the rates of detecting endoscopic lesions and IBD-related findings between the two subgroups. RESULTS: The study initially confirmed the comparability of general patient information between groups A and B. Notably, the abnormal detection rate in group A was significantly higher than in group B (P < 0.01). In terms of endoscopic findings, the anal fistula group (group A) exhibited higher rates of detecting bowel inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, and polyps compared to the non-anal fistula group (group B) (P < 0.05). The distribution of inflammation locations indicated higher detection rates in the terminal ileum, ileocecal region, and ascending colon for group A compared to group B (P < 0.05). Although the incidence of IBD in group A was higher than in group B, this difference did not reach statistical significance (P > 0.05). Subsequently, the analysis of the subgroup (groups A and C) revealed a significant disparity in intestinal endoscopic detection rates (P < 0.01) and statistically significant differences in detecting IBD (P < 0.05) and Crohn's disease (P < 0.05) between the two anal fistula subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study underscore the substantial clinical value of preoperative colonoscopy in the comprehensive evaluation of patients with anal fistula. Preoperative colonoscopy aids in ruling out localized perianal lesions caused by underlying inflammatory bowel disease, thereby mitigating the likelihood of missed diagnoses and enhancing treatment outcomes. This research highlights the importance of incorporating preoperative colonoscopy as a valuable diagnostic tool in managing anal fistula patients.

Repeat operations in patients with anal fistula, a retrospective study across England and Wales.

AIM: This article reports the frequency of repeat operations including waiting times within the National Health Service (NHS) of England and Wales. METHODS: Retrospective study on repeat operations for anal fistula (AF) performed between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2016. Data were extracted from the national registry of data entered into Hospital Episode Statistics (HES). Patient factors (age, sex, self-declared ethnicity) and geographical location were tested for association with repeat operations and time to the second operation. RESULTS: We analysed 36,223 patients that had an operation for AF within 148 NHS trusts. The median follow-up time was 28 months. The majority of patients (67.4%) had only one operation. Eighty-five per cent of them remained under the care of a single consultant. Six per cent of the repeat surgeries occurred in at least three different treatment sites. Young age and female sex were associated with higher rates of repeat operations. Non-declared and Black or Black British ethnicity were associated with fewer operations. The median waiting time between the first and second operations was 27.4 weeks (IQR: 14.7-55.3); between the second and third 28.0 weeks (IQR: 14.7-57.0); between the third and fourth 29.0 weeks. CONCLUSION: This large real world population-based study shows that the majority of patients with AF undergo only one operation. Patients requiring multiple procedures tend to stay under the care of a small number of consultants but waiting times between operations are long. There is a geographical variation in the number of operations and the time between them.

Gracilis muscle transposition in complex anorectal fistulas of diverse types and etiologies: long-term results of 60 cases.

PURPOSE: Complex fistulas often require several attempts at repair and continue to be a challenging task for the surgeon, but above all, a major burden for the affected patient. This study is aimed at evaluating the potential of gracilis muscle transposition (GMT) as a therapeutic option for complex fistulas of diverse etiologies. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted over a period of 16 years with a total of 60 patients (mean age 50 years). All were treated for complex fistula with GMT at St. Josef's Hospital in Regensburg, Germany. Follow-up data were collected and analyzed using a prospective database and telephone interview. Success was defined as the absence of fistula. RESULTS: A total of 60 patients (44 women, 16 men; mean age 50 years, range 24-82 years) were reviewed from January 2005 to June 2021. Primary fistula closure after GMT was achieved in 20 patients (33%) and 19 required further interventions for final healing. Overall healing rate was 65%. Fistula type was heterogeneous, with a dominant subgroup of 35 rectovaginal fistulas. Etiologies of the fistulas were irradiation, abscesses, obstetric injury, and iatrogenic/unknown, and 98% of patients had had previous unsuccessful repair attempts (mean 3.6, range 1-15). In 60% of patients with a stoma (all patients had a stoma, 60/60), stoma closure could be performed after successful fistula closure. Mean follow-up after surgery was 35.9 months (range 1-187 months). No severe intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperative complications were observed in 25%: wound healing disorders (n = 6), gracilis necroses (n = 3), incisional hernia (n = 2), scar tissue pain (n = 2), suture granuloma (n = 1), and osteomyelitis (n = 1). In 3 patients, a second gracilis transposition was performed due to fistula recurrence (n = 2) or fecal incontinence (n = 1). CONCLUSION: Based on the authors' experience, GMT is an effective therapeutic option for the treatment of complex fistulas when other therapeutic attempts have failed and should therefore be considered earlier in the treatment process. It should be seen as the main but not the only step, as additional procedures may be required for complete closure in some cases.

Comparing the efficacy and safety of different thread-drawing surgery method for treating high complex anal fistula: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different surgical methods in the treatment of high complex anal fistula by systematic review and network meta-analysis. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials that met the inclusion criteria in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, CBM, CNKI, WANFANG DATA, VIP were searched from the date of database construction to May 23, 2023. RESULTS: Among the 48 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 4205 patients were included in the network meta-analysis. Incision thread-drawing counter-drainage procedure (ITCP) in improving the effective rate, the cure rate; reduce the recurrence rate, reduce the anal canal damage has a huge advantage. Directional line-hanging method (DLM) is optimal for safety and postoperative pain relief. Directional line-hanging method (ITSS) protect the optimal anal function after surgery. Sphincter preserving thread-hanging method (SPTM) has a significant advantage in accelerating wound healing time. Main tube incision combined with thread-hanging branch tube drainage (MIBD) is second only to incision thread-drawing counter-drainage procedure (ITCP) in improving effective rate, cure rate, reducing recurrence rate and reduce complication rate. CONCLUSION: In general, different thread-drawing surgery methods have good clinical effect for the treatment of high complex anal fistula. In general, these methods provide evidence-based medical evidence for early treatment in terms of improving clinical efficacy, relieving anal pain and reducing wound healing time. However, there are differences in the number of included literature studies, and further verification by large-sample, high-quality, multicenter RCTS is still needed in the next stage.