Comparison of Complications Between Ligation of Intersphincteric Tract and Seton for Transphincteric Perianal Fistula
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51273/esc25.2513214Keywords:
LIFT, Transphincteric perianal fistula, Incontinence, RecurrenceAbstract
Abstract
Objective: To assess healing time, recurrence rate and fecal incontinence of transphincteric fistula
Material and Methods: This study was conducted in Surgical Unit 2 services hospital Lahore between June
2022 and June 2024.Total 50 patients having transphincteric perianal fistula in age range from 18 to 65 years
were included in study and patients with previous perianal disease or perianal surgery were excluded as
diagnosed on history and examination. Patients were divided equivalently among two groups with Group A
receiving the LIFT and Group B underwent the seton technique. Follow up was done for six months
postoperatively.
Results: Healing rate of the LIFT group was 80% with no incontinence but recurrences were noted in about
20%. Seton group had a healing rate of 84% but a lower recurrence rate with an incidence of incontinence at
16%. These observations indicate that LIFT is more useful in maintaining continence while seton seems to
offer slight benefit in reducing recurrences. This comparative study explains the merits and demerits of each
procedure thereby helping in decisions for treating Transphincteric fistula tracts.
Conclusion: This study illustrates that no single technique is termed ideal, however LIFT and seton
techniques have their own unique strengths. It is appropriate to resort to the LIFT for the transphincteric
fistula if the intention is to preserve the continence in case of transphincteric fistula. LIFT technique should be
applied taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient to strengthen healing response and
reduce the risk of incontinence and recurrence.
Keywords: LIFT, Transphincteric perianal fistula, Seton, Incontinence, Recurrence
How to cite: Mengal MZ, Nazir T, Aslam M, Rafi Y, Akhtar NN, Hameed MR. Comparison of Complications Between
Ligation of Intersphincteric Tract and Seton for Transphincteric Perianal Fistula. Esculapio - JSIMS 2025;21(01): 20-
25
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51273/esc25.2513214
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