Efficacy of Lift (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) for Complex and Recurrent Anal Fistulas - A Single-Center Experience and A Review of the Literature

Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract in treatment of anal fistulas (LIFT) is being said to have satisfactory results in short and long follow up, with low risk of complications. This study was designed to evaluate the results in patients with complex and recurrent fistulas in comparison with simple transsphincteric anal fistulas. The aim of the study was to present a single-center experience in LIFT procedure in treatment of both simple and complex anal fistulas, including recurrent fistulas, in comparison with a review of current literature. Material and methods. A series of 17 patients were qualified to LIFT procedure. 5 patients were treated for simple transsphincteric, 6 for complex fistulas, 6 with fistulas recurrent after fistulotomy. Median age was 47, most of the patients were male (16/17). Mean follow up was 11 months. Results. Mean operating time was 55 minutes counting from surgical site disinfection to final dressing of the wound. Of the 17 patients the overall success rate was 53%. As expected, best results were achieved in patients with simple fistulas (80% success rate), then complex (50%), and recurrent fistulas (only 33%). There were no early nor late complications of the surgery. Conclusion. As expected, in simple transsphincteric fistulas the results were satisfactory, taking into account low complication rate. Complex and recurrent fistulas seem to be risk factors of LIFT failure. The results are consistent with data published by other authors, based on the review of the current literature, and it seems there is still room for improvement, so further research is required.