Clinical role of a modified seton technique for the treatment of trans-sphincteric and supra-sphincteric anal fistulas.

摘要

We have devised a modified seton technique that resects the external fistula tract while preserving the anal sphincter muscle. This study assessed the technique when used for the management of complex anal fistulas.Between January 2006 and December 2007, 239 patients (208 males and 31 females, median age: 41?years) underwent surgery for complex anal fistulas using the technique. Of the 239 patients, 198 patients had trans-sphincteric fistula and 41 patients had supra-sphincteric fistula.The durations of the surgeries were 17?min (47, 13) [median (range, interquartile range)] for trans-sphincteric fistulas and 38 (44, 16) for supra-sphincteric fistulas. The durations of the surgeries were significantly (P?