Outcomes with the use of bioprosthetic grafts to reinforce the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (BioLIFT procedure) for the management of complex anal fistulas.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

This study was undertaken to determine the outcomes of patients whose complex anal fistulas were managed by ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract reinforced with a bioprosthetic graft (BioLIFT procedure).

METHODS:

A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients whose anal fistula was managed by use of the BioLIFT technique between May 2005 and May 2008, who had a minimum of 1 year of follow-up after their last treatment.

RESULTS:

The BioLIFT technique using a bioprosthetic graft was used to treat a complex anal fistula in 31 patients (22 men, 9 women; mean age, 48 y (range, 30-68 y). Clinical healing of the fistula, defined as the absence of drainage with no evidence of residual fistula tract, occurred in 29 (94%) patients. No complications occurred that required intervention.

CONCLUSIONS:

The BioLIFT procedure is effective for the management of complex fistulas-in-ano. Randomized clinical trials comparing this technique with other sphincter-preserving methods for fistula management need to be performed to further determine the role of this technique in the management of anal fistulas.

• Authors: C Neal Ellis
• Journal: Diseases of the colon and rectum (Dis Colon Rectum) Vol. 53 Issue 10 Pg. 1361-4 (Oct 2010) ISSN: 1530-0358 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 20847616 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Anal Canal (surgery)
• Bioprosthesis
• Cohort Studies
• Female
• Humans
• Ligation (instrumentation, methods)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Rectal Fistula (etiology, pathology, surgery)
• Retrospective Studies
• Suture Techniques (instrumentation)
• Treatment Outcome