Comparative Study of Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy and Diltiazem 2% Topical Ointment in the Treatment of Chronic Fissure in Ano: A Prospective Study.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Anal fissure was first described by Recamier in 1829. It is a linear ulcer in the anoderm. Anal fissures are most commonly seen in young adults and have a slight female preponderance. Although a relatively minor entity, the morbidity in the general population is very large. Our knowledge of the pathophysiology and management of anal fissure has rapidly progressed over the past 15 years. All methods of treatment aim to reduce the anal sphincter spasm and aid in pain relief and healing of fissure. Aim: The main aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of topical 2% Diltiazem ointment and lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) in the management of chronic fissure in ano. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study of 70 patients with chronic fissure in ano. A number of 35 patients were treated with diltiazem (2%) topical ointment and 35 patients were treated with LIS. The effectiveness of both treatment modalities was assessed on 2, 4, and 6 weeks follow-up. Result: Healing of fissure was complete in 24 (68.7%) patients of topical diltiazem group and 33 (94.28%) patients of LIS group after 6 weeks of treatment. A maximum number of patients (97.14%) achieved symptomatic relief who underwent LIS at 4 weeks follow-up. Patients who underwent LIS had an immediate pain relief when compared to those who were treated with topical diltiazem 2% ointment. Both topical diltiazem 2% ointment and LIS were equally effective in reducing bleeding per rectum in patients with chronic fissure in ano. Conclusion: Time taken for fissure healing in topical diltiazem group is long in comparison to LIS group. Surgical treatment with LIS is the treatment of choice in chronic fissure in ano.