Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract: what is the evidence in a review?

ABSTRACT: Broadly, complex fistulas are those that are not low transsphincteric or intersphincteric. The objectives of surgical management are to achieve fistula healing, prevent recurrences and maintain continence. The risk of incontinence associated with treatment ranges from 10% to 57%. The objective of this manuscript is to review the current literature to date on the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract procedure (LIFT procedure) as a treatment option in these types of fistula. A search was conducted in Medline, PUBMED, EMBASE and ISI Web of Knowledge, and studies published from January 2009 to May 2013 were included. The primary outcomes were fistula healing rates, mean healing time and patient satisfaction with this surgical technique. Eighteen studies were included in this review.

SUBMITTER: Vergara-Fernandez O 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3812479 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature