Total Anal Sphincter Saving Technique for Fistula-in-Ano; The Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract
Arun Rojanasakul MD*, Jirawat Pattanaarun MD*, Chucheep Sahakitrungruang MD*, Kasaya Tantiphlachiva MD*
Affiliation : * Division of Colorectal Surgery, Chulalongkorn University
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.
Materials and Methods : A prospective observational study in eighteen fistula-in-ano patients treated by liga-
tion 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.
Keywords : Fistula-in-ano, Anorectal fistula, Sphincter saving operation, Nonhealing of fistula-in-ano
