Abstract
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.
Keywords
anal fistula (AF); ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT)
Highlights
• The main reason for choosing the LIFT technique for the treatment of AF is to avoid postoperative anal continence disturbances and to preserve quality of life.
• A two-step approach by placing a preoperative seton exists, but its indication is controversial.
• The LIFT technique had a success rate of 57.1 % in our series and there were no differences between high and low AF.
• No changes in postoperative continence were observed with respect to the preoperative score.
• All patients were treated in the Day Surgery Unit.