Effectiveness of Laser-Based Fistula Therapies with and without Adjunctive Measures in Anal Fistulas Management: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Fistula Laser Closure (FiLaC®) is a sphincter-preserving technique for anal fistulas, but its efficacy and safety remain under discussion. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of FiLaC® in the management of patients with cryptoglandular fistulas.

Methods

A systematic review was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases in January 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies assessing FiLaC® for cryptoglandular fistulas, with or without surgical adjunctive measures. The main outcome was the primary healing rate. Secondary outcomes included fistula recurrence, incontinence, reoperation rates, and postoperative complications. Subgroup analyses explored variables related to the pr

SUBMITTER: Duda JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12426143 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature