Ligadura del trayecto fistuloso interesfinteriano. Nuestros resultados / Ligation of the intersphincteric fistulatract. Our results

Introducción: existen varias técnicas para el tratamiento quirúrgico de las fístulas anales, con variables resultados. La técnica de ligadura del trayecto fistuloso interesfinteriano (LIFT) consiste en la disección del espacio entre ambos esfínteres para localizar el trayecto fistuloso y proceder a su ligadura y sección. Objetivo: evaluar nuestros resultados con la técnica de LIFT para del tratamiento de las fístulas anales transesfinterianas. Diseño: retrospectivo, observacional de corte transversal. Materiales y métodos: Se incluyeron todos los pacientes con fístulas transesfinterianas tratados con LIFT desde enero de 2013 a diciembre 2020. El seguimiento postoperatorio se realizó hasta los 2 años. Resultados: se operaron 62 pacientes. El sexo predominante fue masculino. Hubo 47 pacientes con fístulas transesfinterianas bajas y 15 con fístulas transesfinterianas altas. En todos se identificó el trayecto fistuloso realizándose ligadura de ambos cabos del trayecto interesfinteriano y se procedió a un curetaje del trayecto a través del orificio externo. Cinco pacientes (8%) presentaron dehiscencia de piel a nivel de la incisión del espacio interesfinteriano, manejado en forma conservadora. Este grupo tuvo una cicatrización mas retardada de 4 semanas. Ocurrió recidiva en 22 (35,5%) pacientes. Conclusión: La técnica de LIFT parece una alternativa eficaz y segura para el tratamiento de las fístulas transesfinterianas bajas y altas ya que no altera la anatomía ni la continencia. (AU)

Introduction: there are various techniques for the surgical treatment of anal fistulas, with variable results. The ligation procedure of the intersphincteric fistulous tract (LIFT) consists of dissecting the space between both sphincters to locate the fistulous tract and proceed to its ligation and section. Objective: to evaluate our results with the LIFT procedure for the treatment of transsphincteric anal fistulas. Design: retrospective, cross-sectional observational study. Material and methods: all patients with transsphincteric fistulas treated with LIFT from January 2013 to December 2020 were included. Postoperative follow-up was carried out for up to 2 years. Results: sixty-two patients underwent surgery. The predominant sex was male. There were 47 patients with low transsphincteric fistulas and 15 with high transsphincteric fistulas. After identifying the fistulous tract in the intersphincteric groove, both ends were ligated and the tract was cut. Finally, curettage of the tract through the external orifice was performed. Five patients (8%) presented skin dehiscence at the level of the intersphincteric groove incision, managed conservatively. This group had a longer healing time of four weeks. Recurrence occurred in 22 (35.5%) patients. Conclusion: the LIFT procedure appears to be an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of low and high transsphincteric fistulas, since it does not alter the anatomy or continence. (AU)

Injection of freshly collected adipose tissue for the treatment complex cryptoglandular anal fistula: case report

Introduction: Perianal fistula is a common colorectal disease which is caused mainly by cryptoglandular disease. Although most cases are treated successfully by surgery, management of complex perianal fistulas (CPAF) remains a challenge with limited results in recurrence and sometimes associated with fecal incontinence. The CPAF treatment with autologous adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) had become a research hotspot. The technique started to be used in the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD) fistulas, where the studies showed safe and goods result from the procedure. Cultured ASCs have been used but this approach requires the preceding collection of adipose tissue, time for isolation of ASCs and subsequent in vitro expansion, need for laboratory facilities, and expertise in cell culturing. These factors have been getting over by using the commercially available alternative, allogenic ASCs. Treatment with allogeneic ASCs has shown good results in patients with CD fistulas, however with the disadvantage of being expensive. Objective: To show that the injection with freshly collected adipose tissue is an alternative to treatment with autologous or allogenic ASCs with several advantages. Methods: In this case report, we show our first experience in the treatment of CPAF with the application of collected adipose tissue in a tertiary referral hospital from Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Results The patient had a good postoperative recuperation with a complete fistula healing after 8 months without adverse effects. Conclusion: Injection with freshly collected adipose tissue is a promising and apparently safe sphincter-sparing technique in the treatment of CPAF. (AU)

Effectiveness and safety of ultra-low-dose spinal anesthesia versus perineal blocks in hemorroidectomy and anal fistula surgery: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background: Ultra-low-dose Spinal Anesthesia (SA) is the practice of employing minimal doses of intrathecal agents so that only the roots that supply a specific area are anesthetized. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of ultra-low-dose spinal anesthesia with that of Perineal Blocks (PB). Methods: A two-arm, parallel, double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing two anesthetic techniques (SA and PB) for hemorrhoidectomy and anal fistula surgery was performed. The primary outcomes were postoperative pain, complementation and/or conversion of anesthesia, and hemodynamic changes. Results: Fifty-nine patients were included in the final analysis. The mean pain values were similar in the first 48 h in both groups (p > 0.05). The individuals allocated to the SA group did not need anesthetic complementation; however, those in the PB group required it considerably (SA group, 0% vs. PB group, 25%; p = 0.005). Hemodynamic changes were more pronounced after PB: during all surgical times, the PB group showed lower MAP values and higher HR values (p < 0.05). Postoperative urinary retention rates were similar between both groups (SA group 0% vs. PB group 3.1%, p = 0.354). Conclusion: SA and PB are similarly effective in pain control during the first 48 h after hemorrhoidec-tomy and anal fistula surgery. Although surgical time was shorter among patients in the PB group, the SA technique may be preferable as it avoids the need for additional anesthesia. Furthermore, the group that received perineal blocks was under sedation with a considerable dose of propofol.

Predictors of long-term healing for endorectal advancement flap for anorectal fistulas

Introduction: Anorectal fistulas are some of the commonest surgical proctologic disorders treated by surgeons. Despite the recent introduction of various sphincter preserving techniques, the search for the optimal operation continues. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors of long-term healing for the endorectal advancement flap. Methods: A retrospective review of a single surgeon experience with the endorectal advancement flap for anorectal fistulas over an 18-year period. The impact of various patient and fistula related factors were analyzed for their impact on the primary endpoint of long-term fistula healing. Results: 87 patients underwent endorectal advancement flap (Male/Female 42.5/57.5%). Median age was 41 years. Sixty-nine patients (79.3%) had anal fistula while 18 patients had rectal fistula (20.7%). An anterior based fistula was noted in 45 patients (51.7%). The most common etiology was cryptoglandular disease (87.4%). The median operative time was 75minutes (range 36-250). Postoperative septic complications were noted in 4 patients (4.6%). Fistula healing was documented in 80 patients (93%). During a median follow-up of 4 months (range 1-38, 1 patient lost to follow-up), recurrence was noted in 8 patients (9.3%), yielding an overall long-term success rate of 83.7%. The long-term healing rate was higher in patients with fistulas from cryptoglandular etiology (86.6%) compared to fistulas from other etiologies (63.6%) [p = 0.027]. Conclusions: The endorectal advancement is associated with a high healing rate, a low postoperative septic complication rate, and infrequent risk for recurrence. Long-term healing without recurrence is achieved more frequently in patients with cryptoglandular etiology of the fistula compared to patients with non-cryptoglandular etiology. (AU)

Cutting of sphincter in fistulectomy with primary closure in complex fistula-in-ano: is it feasible?

Introduction: Treatment of complex fistulas such as inter- or transsphincteric, recurrent, and high fistulae have high rate of recurrence or incontinence. Fistulectomy with primary sphincter reconstruction might represent an effective and safe alternative to reduce rate of recurrence and incontinence. The aim of this study is to assess incontinence and recurrence after fistulectomy with primary sphincter reconstruction for management of complex fistulas. Material and Methods: There were 60 patients with complex fistulae involving the sphincter, with 56 male and 4 female, mean age 40.6 years, operated by fistulectomy and primary sphincter repair over a period of 7 years. Patients were followed up for 6months for any complications, recurrence, and incontinence. Results: The majority of patients (50, 83.3%) had complete wound healing in 2 weeks, while 4 (6.6%) patients had hematoma and superficial wound dehiscence, which were managed conservatively and healed in 4 weeks. There was one recurrence. All patients had good continence postoperatively, except for mild fecal incontinence (FI, score 3), seen in 6 (10%) patients. However, all these patients regained continence within 6 weeks. Conclusions: Primary reconstruction of anal sphincter with fistulectomy is a safe option for complex fistula-in-ano. (AU)

Approaches in the treatment of perianal fistula in Crohn disease

Perianal fistula is a common complication of Crohn disease, and it is a great burden on the life and psychology of patients, but its treatment is still a difficult problem to face. In recent years, progress in the treatment of Crohn disease has progressed rapidly due to the advent of biological agents, but there has been a lack of research on perianal fistula in Crohn disease, and the direction of research has been scattered; therefore, the author reviews the traditional treatment of perianal fistula in Crohn disease in the context of the available literature and discusses emerging and potential therapeutic approaches. (AU)

Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) for the treatment of anal fistula: a prospective observational study

Background: The ligation of intersphincteric fistula fract (LIFT) technique avoids postoperative anal continence disturbances and preserves quality of life. Methods: A total of 70 patients with anal fistula (AF) were treated in the Day Surgery Unit. The LIFT technique was the primary treatment in 63 patients. The other had previously undergone placement of a loose seton (two-step approach). The mean follow-up was 66.8 months. Statistical analysis was performed using contingency tables, the chi-square test, and the Student T-test. Results: The use of LIFT was successful in 40 patients (57.1%). However, 6 patients (8.6%) presented persistence of postoperative intersphincteric fistula, being successfully treated by fistulotomy. There were no differences in this technique's success rate between high and low AF (p = 0.45). The success rate of one-step LIFT, however, was significantly higher (p = 0.03). No disturbances of continence were observed. Conclusions: The LIFT technique has a role in the treatment of AF, is suitable for ambulatory surgery, and has a low complications rate. A two-step approach is not always needed. (AU)

Management of complex fistula-in-ano by interception of fistula track with application of ksharasutra (IFTAK): a novel technique

Objective: Despite all the technological advances, successful management of complex fistula-in-ano is still a challenge due to recurrence and incontinence. The present study evaluates the outcomes of a novel technique, Interception of Fistula Track with Application of Ksharasutra (IFTAK) in terms of success rate and degree of incontinence. Methods: In the present prospective study, 300 patients with complex fistula-inano were treated by the IFTAK technique, whose surgical steps include: incision at the anterior or posterior midline perianal area, identification and interception of the fistulous track at the level of the external sphincter, rerouting the track (and extensions) at the site of interception, and application of a ksharasutra (medicated seton) in the proximal track (from the site of interception to the internal opening) that is laid open gradually, with the resulting wound healing with minimum scarring. The distal track is allowed to heal spontaneously. Results: There were 227 transsphincteric and 73 intersphincteric varieties of fistula with supralevator extension in 23 cases, of which 130 were recurrent fistulas, 29 had horseshoe track, while 25 had blind fistula with no cutaneous opening. The mean duration of the ksharasutra application was 8.11 ± 3.86 weeks with an overall success rate of 93.33% at the 1-year follow-up. A total of 3.67% of the cases reported with a mild impairment of continence on the Wexner incontinence scoring system. Pre- and postoperative anal manometry evaluation showed minimal reduction in median basal and squeeze pressures. Conclusion: The IFTAK technique is a minimally invasive, daycare surgical procedure for the management of complex fistula-in-ano with low recurrence and minimal sphincter damage. (AU)

Is fistulotomy with marsipulization more effective than fistulectomy alone for low fistula in ano?

Background: Fistula in ano is a very common perianal condition seen in outpatient departments. Fistulotomy and fistulectomy are two conventional options of surgery. The present study is designed to observe wound healing time and mean postoperative pain score in the comparison of outcome of the fistulectomy to fistulotomy with marsupialization. Methods: This prospective randomized trial was conducted in the surgical department of the Civil Hospital Karachi for a period of 12 months, in which 60 patients with low anal fistula were divided into 2 groups. Thirty patients in group A were treated with fistulectomy, and 30 in group B were treated with fistulotomy with marsupialization. The postoperative pain severity was assessed after 24 hrs through a visual analogue scale and on weekly and fortnightly follow-ups for 6 weeks. Wound healing was assessed by clinical examination on weekly and fortnightly follow-ups for 6 weeks to estimate the mean healing time. Results: The mean pain score was significantly lower in group B in comparison to group A (3.6±1.99 versus 2.40±1.52; p=0.01). The mean wound healing time was shorter in group B in comparison to group A (4.23±0.77 versus 5.80±0.41 weeks; p=0.0005). Conclusion: Fistulotomy with marsupialization is a simple, easy, and more effective method than fistulectomy for the treatment of simple perianal fistula. (AU)

The ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) technique for simple and complex fistula-in-ano

Background: Fistula-in-ano is one of the most common clinical condition encountered in a surgical outpatient department. Many treatment modalities have been described with variable outcomes but gold standard surgical treatment is yet to be agreed upon. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the treatment outcomes of ligature of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) technique in the treatment of simple and complex fistula-in-ano with the primary objective of recurrence rate and broad objective of other postoperative complications during the period of study and after long-term follow-up. Methods: It is a retrospective study of prospectively collected data from the patients who havebeen operated for fistula-in-ano using the LIFT technique at our institute from February 2018 to March 2020 and followed-up until September 2020. Results: A total of 56 patients with fistula-in-ano were treated with the LIFT procedure during the study period, of which 20 patients had simple fistula and 36 had complex fistula. A success rate of 83% was obtained with completely healed fistulas in 46 patients. No patient developed postoperative incontinence. Conclusion: Ligature of intersphincteric fistula tract is an effective treatmentmodality for fistula-in-ano with less procedure-related morbidity, but it is associated with a higher recurrence rate in simple fistula than in complex fistula. (AU)

Operaciones en dos etapas, utilizando sutura de grosor flexible en el tratamiento de fistula anal de tipo alto en una curación rápida de estimulación y tasa de recurrrencia más baja / Two staged operations using loose thick seton suture in the treatment of high type fistula in ano stimulate rapid healing and lower recurrence rate

Antecedentes: la fístula de ano es un problema crónico para los pacientes. Causa angustia debido al mal olor y la suciedad con infecciones y secreciones recurrentes. La recurrencia y la lesión del esfínter anal fueron las complicaciones más críticas después de la cirugía. La colocación de un setón suelto y grueso fue la operación quirúrgica más prometedora. Reducir el tiempo de colocación del setón para disminuir el sufrimiento de los pacientes por la suciedad y múltiples apósitos. Pacientes y métodos: estudio retrospectivo. Cien pacientes con fístula anal alta tratados quirúrgicamente en la ciudad médica de Al-Sader y en la clínica privada diaria de Al-Najaf, ciudad de Najaf, Irak, desde febrero de 2018 hasta marzo de 2019. Se han tomado imágenes de fistulografía y resonancia magnética de todos los pacientes. Después de eso, se realiza una fistulectomía con sutura de setón suelta y gruesa durante tres meses. Los pacientes con persistencia del trayecto de trayecto fistuloso fueron sometidos a una segunda cirugía y una tercera operación hasta su completa curación. Resultados: Cien pacientes con fístula de tipo alto en ano con 96 varones (96%) y mujeres 4 (4%). La tasa de curación completa entre los pacientes masculinos después de la primera operación fue de 90 (93%), mientras que las mujeres mostraron una tasa de curación completa de 4 (100%) después de la primera operación. Tres de los pacientes varones restantes con un tracto de fístula alto persistente mostraron una curación completa después de la segunda operación, mientras que en 3 (3%) la tasa de curación completa fue del 100% después de la tercera operación. Conclusión: Un setón suelto y grueso colocado en un tracto de fístula de tipo alto durante tres meses brinda una excelente protección al esfínter anal externo con una tasa de recurrencia menor y una curación rápida.

Background: Fistula in ano is a chronic problem for the patients. It causes distressing because of foul odour and soiling with recurrent infection and discharge. Recurrence and anal sphincter injury were the most critical complications following surgery. Loose, thick seton placement was the most promising surgical operation. To reduce the time of seton placement, therefore, decreasing the suffering of patients from soiling and multiple dressing. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study. One hundred patients with high type fistula in ano treated surgically in Al-Sader Medical city and Al-Najaf daily private clinic, Najaf city, Iraq from Feb 2018 to March 2019. Fistulography and magnetic resonance imaging have taken from all patients. After that, fistulectomy with loose, thick seton suture placed for three months. Patients with the persistence of high fistula tract underwent a second surgery and third operation until complete healing. Results: One hundred patients with high type fistula in ano with male 96 (96%) and female patients were 4 (4%). The rate of complete healing among male patients after the first operation was 90 (93%), while female patients showed a 4(100%) rate of complete healing after the first operation. Three of the remaining male patients with persistently high fistula tract showed complete healing after the second operation, whereas 3 (3%) the rate of complete healing was 100% after the third operation. Conclusion: A Loose, thick seton placed in high type fistula tract for three months provides excellent protection to the external anal sphincter with less recurrence rate and rapid healing

The use of seton as a bridge to definitive ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract procedure for fistula-in-ano: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: There is still controversy over the usefulness of seton placement prior to the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) surgery in the management of anal fistula. Objective: To evaluate the impact of preoperative seton placement on the outcomes of LIFT surgery for the management of fistula-in-ano. Design: systematic review and meta-analysis. Data Sources: A search was performed on the MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar databases. Study Selection: Original studies without language restriction reporting the primary healing rates with and without seton placement as a bridge to definitive LIFT surgery were included. Intervention: The intervention assessed was the LIFT with and without prior seton placement. Main Outcome Measures: The main outcome was defined as the primary healing rate with and without the use of seton as a bridge to definitive LIFT surgery. Results: Ten studiesmet the criteria for systematic review, all retrospective,with a pooled study population of 772 patients. There were no significant differences in the percentages of recurrence between patients with and without seton placement (odds ratio [OR] 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73-1.43: p=0.35). The I2 value was 9%, which shows the homogeneity of the results among the analyzed studies. The 10 included studies demonstrated a weighted average overall recurrence of 38% (interquartile range [IQR] 27-42.7%), recurrence with the use of setonwas 40%(IQR26.6-51.2%), and without its use, the recurrence rate was 51.3% (IQR 31.3-51.3%) Limitations: The levels of evidence found in the available literature were relatively fair, as indicated after qualitative evaluation using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and the Attitude Heading Reference System (AHRS) evidence levels. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggests that the placement of seton as a bridge treatment prior to LIFT surgery does not significantly improve long-term anal fistula healing outcomes. Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract surgery can be performed safely and effectively with no previous seton placement. International prospective register of systematic reviews-PROSPERO registration number: CDR42020149173. (AU)

Evaluation of fistulotomy with immediate sphincteric reconstruction in the treatment of high transsphincteric perianal fistula

Background: High perianal fistula treatment remains challenging, mainly due to the variability in success and recurrence rates as well as continence impairment risks. So far, no procedure can be considered the gold standard for surgical treatment. Yet, strong efforts to identify effective and complication-free surgical options are ongoing. Fistulotomy can be considered the best perianal fistula treatment option, providing a perfect surgical field view, allowing direct access to the source of chronic inflammation. Controversy exists concerning the risk of continence impairment associated with fistulotomy. The present study aimed to assess the outcomes of fistulotomy with immediate sphincteric reconstruction regaring fistula recurrence, incontinence, and patient satisfaction. Methods: This interventional study was performed at the General Surgery Department of Zagazig University Hospital during the period from July 2018 to December 2019 on 24 patients with a clinical diagnosis of high transsphincteric fistula-in-ano. The fistulous tract was laid open over the probe placed in the tract. After the fistula tract had been laid open, the tract was curetted and examined for secondary extensions. Then, suturing muscles to muscles, including the internal and external sphincters, by transverse mattress sutures. Results: Our study showed that 2 patients develop incontinence to flatus ~ 8.3%.and only one patient develop incontinence to loose stool, 4.2%. Complete healing was achieved in 83% and recurrence was 16.6%. Conclusion: Fistulotomy with immediate sphincteric reconstruction is considered to be an effective option in the management of high perianal fistula, with low morbidity and high healing rate with acceptable continence state. (AU)

Urorectal fistula repair using different approaches: operative results and quality of life issues

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate efficacy of urorectal fistula (URF) repair using different approaches and the clinical factor determinant of success, and also the morbidity associated to the procedure and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in male survivors of pelvic malignancies. Material and Methods: Retrospective evaluation of 39 patients with URF primarily intervened in three institutions using different surgical approaches. Success was defined as effective fistula closure. Variables evaluated included demographics, previous treatments, surgical approach, ancillary surgeries, complications and HRQoL by using a standardized non-validated specific questionnaire. Median follow-up from surgery to interview was 55 months (interquartile range 49, range 4-112). Factors determinant of success were investigated using logistic regression. Safety of the procedure was evaluated by Clavien-Dindo scale. Deterioration of continence and erectile function and other HRQoL issues were evaluated. Results: Prostate cancer treatment was the predominant etiology. The success rate for fistula repair was 89.5%. The surgical approach was not related to failed repair (p=0.35) or complications (p=0.29). Factors associated with failure were complications (p=0.025), radiotherapy (p=0.03), fistula location (p=0.04) and fistula size (p=0.007). Multivariate analysis revealed fistula size was the only independent determinant of failure (OR 6.904, 1.01-47.75). Complications occurred in 46.2% and severe complications in 12.8%. The mortality related to the procedure was 2.6%. Urinary incontinence was present before repair in 26.3% and erectile dysfunction in 89.5%. Fistula repair caused de novo urinary incontinence in 7.9% and deterioration of erectile status in 44.7%. Globally 79% were satisfied after repair and only 7.9% rated HRQoL as unhappy. Trans-sphincteric approach was related to less deterioration of erectile function (p=0.003), and higher perceived satisfaction in QoL (p=0.04). Conclusions: The surgical approach elected to correct URF is not determinant of success nor of complications. Fistula size appears as independent determinant for failure. Transsphincteric approach could be advantageous over other procedures regarding HRQoL issues.

Efficacy of low-level laser therapy on fistula-in-ano treatment / Eficácia do laser de baixa potência no tratamento das fístulas perianais

ABSTRACT Background: Treating anal fistulae is still a great challenge due to the possibility of fecal incontinence after surgery and that the use of laser has been gaining space in medicine, including as an inducing method of healing. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy on fistula-in-ano treatment in rats. Methods: Fifteen male Wistar rats weighing approximately 250-300g were used, which were subjected to the anal fistula induction procedure and after 30 days were distributed into two groups: control group (CG, n=5) and laser group (LG, n=10) observed for another 30 days. In the CG no treatment was performed and, in the LG, low-level laser therapy was applied in fistulous tracts daily. The closure of the fistulous tract, the area of the remaining tract, the inflammatory infiltrate and vascular congestion were evaluated. Results: There was no complete closure of the tract in any of the animals. The mean area of the remaining tract was 847.2 µm2 in the CG and 248.5 µm2 in the LG (p=0.001). The mean inflammatory infiltrate score was 2.4 in the CG and 1.3 in the LG (p=0.0285), while in the evaluation of vascular congestion, 1.6 was observed in the CG and 0.6 in the LG (p=0.031). Conclusions: Low-level laser therapy was able to reduce the area of the fistulous tracts as well as decrease the inflammatory process and local vascular congestion.

RESUMO Racional: Tratamento de fístulas anais ainda é grande desafio devido à possibilidade de incontinência fecal pós-operatória; o uso do laser vem ganhando espaço na medicina, inclusive como método indutor de cicatrização. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da terapia a laser de baixa potência no tratamento de fístula perianal em ratos. Métodos: Foram utilizados 15 ratos Wistar machos com peso aproximado de 250-300 g, os quais foram submetidos à indução da fístula anal e após 30 dias foram distribuídos em dois grupos: grupo controle (GC, n=5) e grupo laser (GL, n=10) observado por mais 30 dias. No GC nenhum tratamento foi realizado e no LG laserterapia de baixa intensidade foi aplicada nos trajetos fistulosos diariamente. Foram avaliados o fechamento do trajeto fistuloso, a área do trajeto remanescente, o infiltrado inflamatório e a congestão vascular. Resultados: Não houve fechamento completo do trajeto fistuloso em nenhum dos animais. A área média do trajeto remanescente foi de 847,2µm2 no GC e 248,5µm2 no GL (p=0,001). O escore médio do infiltrado inflamatório foi de 2,4 no GC e 1,3 no GL (p=0,0285), enquanto na avaliação da congestão vascular foi observado 1,6 no GC e 0,6 no GL (p=0,031). Conclusões: A terapia a laser de baixa potência foi capaz de reduzir a área dos trajetos fistulosos, bem como diminuir o processo inflamatório e a congestão vascular local.

Manejo de la fístula anorrectal compleja: LIFT, colgajo de avance y otras técnicas / Management of complex anorectal fistula: LIFT, endorectal advancement flap and others techniques

Resumen 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 está clara, estarían involucradas citoquinas y el proceso de transición de epitelio a mesénquima. El gold standard para su estudio es la resonancia nuclear magnética, su uso por sí 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 fistula laser closure.

Complex anal fistula are a challenge for colorectal surgeons. It is a common pathology in population. Pathogenesis is still unclear, it would be involved citokines and the process of epitelial to eesenchymal transition. The gold standard for study is MRI, its use reduces recurrences. The goal of treatment is heal the fistula without damaging the function of the sphincter and avoid recurrences. There are multiple techniques, the most accepted is ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract with cure rate over 70%, with minimal impact in continence. This review includes other techniques like rectal advancement flap, fibrin glue, permacol, stem cells, anal fistula plug, video asisted anal fistula treatment, over the scope clip and fistula laser closure.

Effect of Acacia catechu and alum hot sitzbath on post-operative pain in patients treated with herbal seton / Efeito do banho quente de assento com Acacia catechu e alume na dor pós-operatória em pacientes tratados com seton à base de plantas

ABSTRACT Background Post-operative pain is the major consequence of Ksarasutra, Seton technique employed in Ayurvedic management of Low anal fistula. Surgeons are forced to prescribe Opioids and NSAIDs with pronounced untoward effects. Non pharmacological measures like Balneotherapy are used to improve circulation and relieve spasm in contemporary sciences. Aim To compare the efficacy of Khadira (Acacia catechu) and Sphatika (Potash alum) hot sitzbath with plain hot sitzbath in patients of low anal fistula treated with Ksarasutra. Method The study was single blind, double armed; prospective, randomized control clinical trial in which 30 patients were randomly allocated into two groups of 15 each on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Group A received hot sitzbath using Acacia catechu and alum infusion twice daily for 21 days. Group B received hot sitzbath using warm water for 21 days. The assessments were made on pain, post-surgical satisfaction burning sensation, tenderness, discharge, constipation, itching and incontinence. Result The disease was prevalent in the 4th decade of life, more in males (86.67%) involved in sedentary work (53.33%) residing in urban domicile, consuming mixed diet (100%). Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in outcome measures like pain, burning sensation, tenderness, discharge, constipation and itching. Conclusion On comparative analysis Acacia and Alum hot sitzbath was more effective in outcomes like pain, surgical satisfaction, burning sensation and discharge. There was no difference in the effect of both interventions with respect to outcome measures like constipation, itching and incontinence.

RESUMO Justificativa A dor pós-operatória é a principal consequência da técnica que utiliza seton de Ksarasutra no tratamento ayurvédico de fístula anal baixa. Os cirurgiões são impelidos a prescrever opiáceos e AINEs que possuem efeitos indesejáveis pronunciados. Medidas não farmacológicas como a balneoterapia são usadas nas ciências contemporâneas para melhorar a circulação e aliviar o espasmo. Objetivo Comparar a eficácia do banho quente de assento com Khadira (Acacia catechu) e Sphatika (Potash alum) com apenas banho de assento em pacientes com fístula anal baixa tratados com Ksarasutra. Método Estudo clínico prospectivo, cego e controlado de dois braços randomizados, no qual 30 pacientes foram alocados aleatoriamente em dois grupos de 15 pacientes cada com base nos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. O Grupo A recebeu banho de assento com Acacia catechu e infusão de alume duas vezes ao dia por 21 dias. O Grupo B recebeu banho de assento com água morna por 21 dias. Os desfechos avaliados foram dor, satisfação pós-cirúrgica, sensação de queimação, sensibilidade, corrimento, constipação, prurido e incontinência. Resultado A doença foi prevalente na 4ª década de vida, mais frequente no sexo masculino (86,67%), nos envolvidos em trabalho sedentário (53,33%), nos residentes em domicílios urbanos e nos que consumiam dieta mista (100%). Ambos os grupos apresentaram melhora estatisticamente significativa na avaliação dos resultados, tais como dor, sensação de queimação, sensibilidade, corrimento, constipação e prurido. Conclusão Na análise comparativa, o banho quente de assento com acácia e alume foi mais eficaz nos desfechos de dor, satisfação cirúrgica, sensação de queimação e corrimento. Não houve diferença em relação ao efeito de ambas as intervenções sobre os desfechos de constipação, prurido e incontinência.

Influence of the cotton and silastic seton on the distance of the anal sphincter cables after fistulotomy in rats / Influência do sedenho de algodão e silastic no afastamento dos cabos musculares do esfíncter anal após fistulotomia em ratos

Abstract Rationale: Fistulotomy is a procedure widely used in the treatment of anal fistulas but is associated with varying degrees of fecal incontinence that could be minimized by previous use of sedentum, and the material used may influence the outcome. Purpouse: To compare cotton and silastic used as setons in the spacing of the sphincter cables of rats subjected to fistulotomy. Method: Thirty Wistar rats were used, which after 30 days of fistula production were distributed in: Control Group (GC): the steel wire was removed, followed by fistulotomy; Cotton Group (GA) and Silastic Group (GS), in which were applied cotton and silastic setons respectively for 30 days when fistulotomy was performed; after seven days, euthanasia and removal of the specimens were performed for histological study, and the results were submitted to statistical assessment using Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test, establishing a significance level of p < 0.05. Results The distance between the muscular cables was 107.9 µm in the GC, 82.4 µm in the GA and 53.5 µm in the GS (p = 0.00001). The mean inflammation scores were 1.9 in the CG, 1.0 in the GA and 0 in the GS (p < 0.05). The fibrosis scores were 1.1 in GC, 0.9 in GA and 0.6 in GS (p > 0.05). Conclusion The silastic seton prior to fistulotomy caused less detachment of the muscular cables and less local inflammatory process.

Resumo Racional: A fistulotomia é um procedimento muito utilizado no tratamento das fístulas anais mas está associado a graus variáveis de incontinência fecal que poderia ser minimizado pelo uso prévio de sedenho, sendo que o material utilizado pode ter influência no resultado. Objetivo: Comparar os fios de algodão e sonda de silastic utilizados como sedenhos no afastamento dos cabos musculares do esfíncter anal de ratos submetidos a fistulotomia. Método: Utilizou-se 30 ratos Wistar, que após 30 dias da confecção da fístula foram distribuídos em: Grupo Controle (GC): foi retirado o fio de aço seguido por fistulotomia; Grupo Algodão (GA) e Grupo Silastic (GS), nos quais aplicou-se sedenho de algodão e silastic respectivamente por 30 dias quando foi realizada fistulotomia; após sete dias realizou-se eutanásia e remoção dos espécimes para estudo histológico, sendo os resultados submetidos a tratamento estatístico pelo teste não-paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis, estabelecendo-se como significante p < 0,05. Resultados O afastamento entre os cabos musculares foi 107,9 µm no GC; 82,4 µm no GA e 53,5 µm no GS (p = 0,00001). As médias dos escores de inflamação foram 1,9 no GC; 1,0 no GA e 0 no GS (p < 0,05). Os escores de fibrose foram 1,1 no GC; 0,9 no GA e 0,6 no GS (p > 0,05). Conclusão O sedenho de silastic previamente à fistulotomia causou menor afastamento dos cabos musculares e menor processo inflamatório local.

Epidemiological profile of patients with fistula in ano / Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com fístula anal

Abstract Rationale There is a lack of consistent national data on the evaluation of the epidemiological profile of patients with anal fistula. Objective To evaluate the epidemiological profile of patients with anal fistula at a center specialized in coloproctology. Method A cross-sectional, retrospective study was carried out between 2016 and 2018 of patients who underwent surgical procedures for the treatment of fistula in ano by the Department of Coloproctology of the Regional Hospital of Mato Grosso do Sul. Age, gender, disease duration, number of procedures, association with Crohn's disease and other comorbidities were evaluated. The data were tabulated and submitted to statistical treatment considering p < 0.05. Results 93.2% of the patients were less than 60 years old, 66.7% were male, 88.9% had the disease less than one year, the most frequent procedures were fistulotomy (55.6%) and fistulectomy (36.8%), with a greater percentage of patients having undergone only one procedure (74.4%), 8.5% had Crohn's disease, 7.7% systemic hypertension and 3.4% had diabetes mellitus. Conclusion In the studied group, there was a predominance of anal fistulae in men under 60 years old and without comorbidities, diagnosed for up to one year, most of them submitted to fistulotomy or fistulectomy at one time. Patients operated after one year of illness and also those with Crohn's disease were submitted mainly to curettage + seton and multiple procedures.

Resumo Racional Faltam dados nacionais sobre a avaliação do perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com fístula anal. Objetivo Avaliar o perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes portadores de fístula anal em um centro especializado em coloproctologia. Método Estudo retrospectivo, transversal, realizado no período de 2016 a 2018 dos pacientes que realizaram procedimentos cirúrgicos para o tratamento da fístula anal pelo serviço de Coloproctologia do Hospital Regional de Mato Grosso do Sul. Avaliou-se idade, gênero, tempo de doença, procedimento realizado, número de procedimentos, associação com doença de Crohn e outras comorbidades. Os dados foram tabulados e submetidos a tratamento estatístico considerando-se significativo p < 0,05. Resultados 93,2% dos pacientes tinham menos de 60 anos, 66,7% eram do gênero masculino, 88,9% tinham a doença a menos de um ano, os procedimentos mais realizados foram a fistulotomia (55,6%) e a fistulectomia (36,8%, sendo que um percentual maior de pacientes havia sido submetido a apenas um procedimento (74,4%); 8,5% tinham doença, 7,7% hipertensão arterial sistêmica e 3,4% diabetes mellitus. Conclusão Na amostra estudada houve predomínio de fístulas anais em homens com menos de 60 anos e sem comorbidades, com diagnóstico de até um ano, a maioria submetida à fistulotomia ou fistulectomia em um tempo. Pacientes operados após um ano de doença e também os com Doença de Crohn foram submetidos principalmente à curetagem + sedenho e múltiplos procedimentos.

Fístula perianal compleja: Tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas / Complex perianal fistula: Treatment with platelet-rich plasma

Paciente masculino con diagnóstico de enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (colitis ulcerosa), corticodependiente, que consulta en nuestro servicio por fístula perianal compleja con extenso compromiso inflamatorio crónico de la región perianal, el cual fue tratado exitosamente con la aplicación local de plasma rico en plaquetas como única terapéutica. Se presentan los beneficios que se podrían obtener mediante la aplicación de plasma rico en plaquetas autólogo en el tratamiento de este tipo de fístulas. De ese modo se evitan los procedimientos quirúrgicos en un terreno inflamatorio crónico que implican altas tasas de complicaciones y recurrencia, afectando la calidad de vida.

A male patient with a diagnosis of steroid dependent inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis) sought medical care due to complex perianal fistula with extended chronic inflammation of the perianal region that was successfully treated with platelet-rich plasma as a single therapy. The benefits of autologous platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of this type of fistulas are presented. In this way, there is no need to perform surgery in a chronic inflammatory territory with high rate of complications and recurrence affecting patients' quality of life.