Intersphincter ligation of the fistulous tract (LIFT). Our results

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: There are several techniques for the surgical treatment of fistulas. Different surgical techniques have their own differences from each other, just as each case is also different, so possible outcomes may vary. The LIFT technique begins with a small incision in the intersphincter groove, where the fistulous path that crosses there is located. The space is opened, the same is dissected where the section is proceeded and ligation by means of resorbable thread, in both ends with the conservation of the sphincter.

OBJECTIVE:  Present and evaluate our results of the LIFT technique for the treatment of fistulas.

DESIGN: Retrospective, observational cross-sectional.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted from January 2013 to December 2020. Patients with transsphincterian fistulas were included. Patients were followed up per office up to 7 years postoperatively.

RESULTS: A total of 62 patients were operated on in this period. The predominant sex was male. 47 patients with low and 15 high transsphincteric fistulas. In all of them, the fistulous path was identified, performing double ligation of the intersphincter path and curettage of the secondary hole. Five patients presented dehiscence of the points on the skin at the level of the intersphincter space that was managed conservatively and we presented 22 recurrences in this period of time.

CONCLUSION: The LIFT technique seems an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of transsphincteric and complex fistulas, since it does not alter the anatomy or continence and other techniques can be performed later or several of them can be combined.

Keywords: LIFT, fistulas, transsphincteric.