Publication:

Clinical study of fistula in ano with special reference to its surgical management

Background The present study was undertaken to evaluate the results of “Lay open method” fistulectomy technique in treating fistula-in-ano in terms of relief of symptoms, healing of wound, recurrence rate and post-operative complications.

Methods Total 45 cases with definite history of fistula and clinically diagnosed cases of fistula in ano selected for the study. A final diagnosis was made after proctoscopic examination under anaesthesia during operation and by histopathological examination after completion of operation.  In all the patients, lay open method fistulectomy was done. Post-operative period was closely monitored and all the cases were meticulously followed for a variable period of time.

Results The common fistulas were low anal type (80%). External opening was mostly located in the posterior mid zone (44.44%). Internal opening was found in 30 cases (66.66%) during per rectal digital examination while proctoscopic examination revealed internal opening in 26 cases (57.77%). Pain (22.22%), retention of urine (8.88%) were the commonest immediate as well as incontinence (1; 2.22%) and recurrence (1; 2.22%) were the delayed post-operative complications. 90% of cases had a satisfactory healing of their wounds within 21 days. Excellent results were achieved in 77.77% cases and only one case of recurrence (2.22%).

Conclusions Encouragingly high success rates were achieved in our patients, but this series comprised a very small number of patients in a short period of time with limited amenities; also follow up of very short duration and irregular for which a definite conclusion is difficult to arrive at.