LIFT TECHNIQUE FOR FISTULA-IN-ANO

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

General Surgery Department, Assuit University Hospital, Egypt

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: LIFT technique is the novel modified approach through the intersphincteric plane for 
the treatment of fistula-in-ano. This work aimed to secure closure of the internal opening and removal of 
infected cryptoglandular tissue through the intersphincteric approach. 
Methods: This was a prospective, observational study. The study was performed on patients with perianal 
fistula who were admitted to General Surgery Assiut University Hospital. All the included patients were 
subjected to: Complete history taking including age, gender, Fistulogram and MRI. 
Results: The study included 30 patients with fistula in ano, 83.3% (n=25) were males and 16.7 % (n=5) were 
females. The mean age was 36.53±11.52 (Range 22:66). Types of fistula-in-ano were low trans-sphincteric type 
(n = 15) and high trans-sphincteric and supra-sphincteric type (n = 15). The lift technique was done in the 
entire study group. There was no change of the continence status in all patients. Four cases developed postoperative complications in the form of abscess or recurrence. All cases with recurrence occurred with high 
fistula.
Conclusion: The LIFT technique is simple, less invasive methods for treatment of fistula-in-ano with no major 
complications.

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