Current concepts in anal fissures

Botulinum toxin injection is an effective alternative for the treatment of chronic anal fissure

OBJECTIVES

There are few published data on the optimized use of botulinum toxin A (BTA) for the treatment of chronic anal fissure (CAF). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of injection of 100 IU BTA into the internal anal sphincter (IAS) at the side opposite of the fissure, using an anal retractor, sedation, and perianal transcutaneous pudendal nerve block.

METHODS

The prospectively maintained data of 132 patients who underwent BTA injection for CAF were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, symptom duration, fissure location, post-procedure pain, complications, continence status, response to treatment, and follow-up period were investigated. Postoperative analgesic requirements of patients who did and did not receive pudendal nerve block were compared.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients were male and the median age was 40 (18-74) years. Sixty-six patients required no, 46 required oral, and 20 required parenteral analgesics. No complications were observed. Complete response was observed in 105 patients (79.5%). Symptomatic improvement was observed in 67.4% of patients within 3-7 d. Median follow-up was 24 (18-42) months. The median Wexner's incontinence score was 0 (0-8) at 1 month. In all, 104 patients had no, 22 patients had minor, and 6 patients had non-minor incontinence. All patients with incontinence recovered fully within 4 (2-13) weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

BTA injection using an anal retractor under sedation and perianal transcutaneous pudendal nerve block is an effective and safe alternative to partial lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) for the treatment of CAF.

Be Kind to Your Behind: A Systematic Review of the Habitual Use of Bidets in Benign Perianal Disease

Background

Benign perianal disease carries significant morbidity and financial burden on the healthcare system. Given that sitz baths are recommended as a treatment modality, we considered whether using a continuous stream of water, in the form of a bidet, offers a convenient and effective alternative. Bidet use is the predominant form of perianal hygiene in Asia, but its role in perianal disease is unknown.

Purpose

To critically analyze and systematically review the current evidence regarding the effect of habitual bidet use on symptoms of benign perianal disease. Data Sources. A database search was conducted on MEDLINE and Epub Ahead of Print, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Cochrane Library, and ProQuest Dissertations. All studies on bidet use in pruritus ani, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures were included. Data Extraction. The studies were screened and critically analyzed by two independent reviewers in line with PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Two prospective trials and 1 cross-sectional study found that habitual use of bidets had no impact on the odds of developing hemorrhoids or hemorrhoidal symptoms. One RCT concluded that using bidets was non-inferior to sitz bath for post-hemorrhoidectomy pain. Two prospective trials and 1 cross-sectional study determined that habitual bidet use may increase the odds of developing pruritus ani. Two case series found that habitual bidet use may cause perianal burns or anterior anal fissures. A meta-analysis was not performed because only a limited number of studies were available, and they were of variable quality.

Conclusion

The current evidence does not identify using bidets as a treatment modality for perianal disease, and further research is warranted to study this increasingly utilized technology.

A Retrospective Critique of the Various Sphincter-preserving Surgical Procedures for Ischiorectal Fistula

In the 1950s, the cause of anal fistulas was identified as an infection of the anal gland (cryptoglandular infection theory). Thereafter, treatment for this disorder began in the 1960s with the lay-open procedure, which involved incising the sphincter and the fistula tract. However, it was found that too much invasion into the sphincter could result in postoperative fecal incontinence. Thus, to reduce such risk, sphincter-preserving surgery was applied for superficial anal fistula in 1961 and for deep anal fistula (ischiorectal fistula) in 1965. Over the years, more effective sphincter-preserving procedures for ischiorectal fistula have been developed to improve the quality of life of the patient. In this review article, we aim to first introduce the basic surgical techniques for ischiorectal fistula. We will discuss the anatomy of the anus and the pathogenesis of ischiorectal fistula and will provide some diagnostic methods. Representative sphincter-preserving procedures that have been performed for ischiorectal fistula since 1965 will also be categorized and outlined chronologically. The discussion will look at the following techniques for ischiorectal fistula and outline the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure so that they can be used as a reference for ischiorectal fistula surgery in the future: the lay-open procedure (fistulotomy and fistulectomy), the Hanley procedure (first partial sphincter-preserving procedure), the muscle-filling procedure, the Moriya method and Ui method (modified partial sphincter-preserving procedure), the Takano method and the sphincter-preserving lateral procedure (complete sphincter-preserving procedure), the seton method (a cross between the lay-open procedure and sphincter-preserving procedure), and the overseas sphincter-preserving procedure.

Modified open posterior internal sphincterotomy with sliding skin graft for chronic anal fissure and anal stenosis: Low recurrence rate and no serious faecal incontinence postoperative complication

AIM

Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) remains a standard for chronic anal fissure even though other surgical techniques have shown high efficacy. Faecal incontinence is a well-documented complication of LIS. We devised modified open posterior internal sphincterotomy (m-OPIS) with sliding skin graft (SSG), which is a combined procedure of OPIS and anal advancement flap. The aim of this study is to evaluate m-OPIS+SSG.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, observational, single-arm study. m-OPIS+SSG was performed for chronic anal fissure and anal stenosis. m-OPIS involved incision of the internal sphincter muscle at the posterior midline until four fingers could be passed. The incision wound was closed by anastomosis of the anoderm and skin. Then, an arcuate skin incision was created and the skin graft was advanced into the anal canal. Follow-up was conducted by clinical consultation and telephone interview. Faecal continence was assessed by Cleveland Clinic Faecal Incontinence (CCFI) score.

RESULTS

m-OPIS+SSG was performed in 143 patients. The mean patient age was 50±16 years. The success and overall recurrence rates after m-OPIS+SSG were 99% and 0.7%, respectively, with a median follow-up period of 16.3 years. One patient developed incontinence with liquid stools once during the 6-month period. None of the other patients suffered permanent faecal incontinence postoperatively. The postoperative CCFI score was 0.5±0.9.

CONCLUSIONS

We consider m-OPIS+SSG as one of the efficacious options of procedure for chronic anal fissure and anal stenosis, owing to its high success rate, low recurrence rate and no postoperative complication of serious faecal incontinence.

Management options for chronic anal fissure: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Anal fissure is the most common cause of severe anorectal pain in adults, contributing significantly to coloproctology workloads. There are a wide variety of management options available, including topical nitrites, calcium channel blockers, botulinum toxin injection and sphincterotomy. The aim of this study was to review current options for the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

METHODS

A comprehensive search identifying randomized controlled trials comparing treatment options for anal fissure published between January 2000 and February 2020 was performed. The primary outcome assessed was healing at 8 weeks post commencing treatment. Secondary outcomes included recurrence, intolerance of treatment and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 2822 studies were identified. After removal of duplicates and non-relevant studies, we identified nine randomized controlled trials which met pre-defined criteria. There was a total of 775 patients. At 8 weeks, healing rates were 95.13% in those treated with sphincterotomy, 66.7% in the botulinum toxin group, 63.8% in the nitrate group, 52.3% for topical diltiazem and 50% for topical minoxidil. Recurrence was highest amongst those treated with botulinum toxin injection (41.7%) and lowest for sphincterotomy (6.9%). Although the absolute number is low, there was a risk of permanent incontinence with sphincterotomy.

CONCLUSION

This review of the randomized control data demonstrates that healing was significantly higher amongst those treated with sphincterotomy versus more conservative modalities. Topical nitrites had similar outcomes to botulinum toxin injection but were poorly tolerated in comparison to other treatments. The benefit of sphincterotomy was at a cost of increased complications, notably permanent incontinence.

Safety and efficacy of the treatment of chronic anal fissure by lateral internal sphincterotomy: A retrospective cohort study

Background

An anal fissure is one of the most common anorectal diseases resulting from a longitudinal tear in anoderm under the dentate line. It causes severe pain during defecation, and the resulting emotional stress leads to a reduction in the overall quality of life of a person. There are several medical and surgical treatment procedures that are employed to treat anal fissures. In the present retrospective study, we aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) surgical procedure for the treatment of chronic anal fissure. Additionally, we also analyzed the complications arising after the surgery and the factors affecting the complications.

Methods

The present study is a retrospective study that included 691 patients treated for chronic anal fissure in a private sector setting, by a single Saudi female surgeon, starting from April 2004 to April 2020.

Results

Out of the 691 patients included in the study, all the patients were female, with an average age of 45.77 years (ranging from 17 to 82 years). Major complaints of the patients were as follows: pain, bleeding, constipation, pruritus, perianal discharge. Recurrence was reported in 2 patients (0.3%) while, 3 patients (0.4%) developed gas incontinence.The complaints of all patients with gas incontinence regressed over a period of time.

Conclusion

This study reports that lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is a safe surgical treatment for chronic anal fissure, leading to a reduction in recurrence, incontinence rate and substantially improves symptoms, especially pain.

Fisurectomy and anoplasty with botulinum toxin injection in patients with chronic anal posterior fissure with hypertonia: a long-term evaluation

Chronic anal fissure’s (CAF) etiopathogenesis remain unclear. CAF of the posterior commissure (CAPF) are often characterized by internal anal sphincter (IAS) hypertonia. The treatment of this disease aimed to reduce IAS hypertonia. Due to the high rate of anal incontinence after LIS, the employment of sphincter preserving surgical techniques associated to pharmacological sphincterotomy appears more sensible. The aim of our study is to evaluate the long-term results of fissurectomy and anoplasty with V–Y cutaneous flap advancement associated to 30 UI of botulinum toxin injection for CAPF with IAS hypertonia. We enrolled 45 patients undergone to fissurectomy and anoplasty with V–Y cutaneous flap advancement and 30 UI botulinum toxin injection. All patients were followed up for at least 5 years after the surgical procedure, with evaluation of anal continence, recurrence rate and MRP (Maximum resting pressure), MSP (Maximum restricting pressure), USWA (Ultrasound wave activity). All patients healed within 40 days after surgery. We observed 3 “de novo” post-operative anal incontinence cases, temporary and minor; the pre-operative ones have only temporary worsened after surgery. We reported 3 cases of recurrences, within 2 years from surgery, all healed after conservative medical therapy. At 5 year follow-up post-operative manometric findings were similar to those of healthy subjects. At 5 years after the surgical procedure, we achieved good results, and these evidences show that surgical section of the IAS is not at all necessary for the healing process of the CAPF.

S3-Leitlinie: Analfissur

Die Analfissur ist eine der häufigsten Pathologien, welche sich dem Proktologen präsentiert. Entsprechend ist es wichtig, verlässliche Leitlinien dazu zu entwickeln. Die aktuelle Leitlinie wurde anhand eines systematischen Literaturreview von einem interdisziplinären Expertengremium diskutiert und verabschiedet.

Die akute Analfissur, soll auf Grund ihrer hohen Selbstheilungstendenz konservativ behandelt werden. Die Heilung wird am besten durch die Einnahme von Ballaststoff reicher Ernährung und einer medikamentösen Relaxation durch Kalziumkanal-Antagonisten (CCA) unterstützt. Zur Behandlung der chronischen Analfissur (CAF), soll den Patienten eine medikamentöse Behandlung zur „chemischen Sphinkterotomie“ mittels topischer CCA oder Nitraten angeboten werden. Bei Versagen dieser Therapie, kann zur Relaxation des inneren Analsphinkters Botulinumtoxin injiziert werden. Es ist belegt, dass die operativen Therapien effektiver sind. Deshalb kann eine Operation schon als primäre Therapie oder nach erfolgloser medikamentöser Therapie erfolgen. Die Fissurektomie, evtl. mit zusätzlicher Botulinumtoxin Injektion oder Lappendeckung, ist die Operation der Wahl. Obwohl die laterale Internus Sphinkterotomie die CAF effektiver heilt, bleibt diese wegen dem höheren Risiko für eine postoperative Stuhlinkontinenz eine Option für Einzelfälle.

Botulinum toxin injection vs topical nitrates for chronic anal fissure: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIM

Chronic anal fissures (CAFs) are frequently encountered in coloproctology clinics. Chemical sphincterotomy with pharmacological agents is recommended as first-line therapy. Topical nitrates (TN) heal CAF effectively but recurrences are common. An alternative treatment modality is injection of botulinum toxin (BT) into the anal sphincter. We aimed to perform an updated systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness of BT and TN in the management of CAF.

METHOD

PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant articles from inception until March 2017. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported direct comparisons of BT and TN were included. Two independent reviewers performed methodological assessment and data extraction. Random effects models were used to calculate pooled effect size estimates.

RESULTS

Six RCTs describing 393 patients (194 BT, 199 TN) were included. There was significant heterogeneity among the trials. On random effects analysis there were no significant differences in incomplete fissure healing (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.13-1.68, P = 0.24) or recurrence (OR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.39-1.25, P = 0.22) between BT and TN, respectively. BT was associated with a higher rate of transient anal incontinence (OR = 2.53, 95% CI 0.98-6.57, P = 0.06) but significantly fewer total side effects (OR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.02-0.63, P = 0.01) and headache (OR = 0.10, 95% CI 0.02-0.60, P = 0.01) compared with TN.

CONCLUSION

BT is associated with fewer side effects than TN but there is no difference in fissure healing or recurrence. Patients need to be warned regarding the risk of transient anal incontinence associated with BT.

Anal advancement flap versus lateral internal sphincterotomy for chronic anal fissure- a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissures (CAF) are common and associated with reduced quality of life. Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is frequently carried out but carries a significant risk of anal incontinence. Anal advancement flap (AAF) has been advocated as an alternative, 'sphincter-preserving' procedure. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the efficacy of both techniques in the treatment of CAF.

METHODS

The online databases of PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from inception to January 2017. All studies that investigated and reported outcomes of LIS and AAF for treatment of CAF were included. The primary outcome measure was anal incontinence while secondary outcomes included unhealed fissure and wound complication rates. Random effects models were used to calculate pooled effect size estimates.

RESULTS

Four studies (2 randomized controlled trials and 2 retrospective studies) describing 300 patients (150 LIS, 150 AAF) fulfilled our inclusion criteria. There was significant clinical heterogeneity among the trials. On random effects analysis, AAF was associated with a significantly lower rate of anal incontinence compared to LIS (OR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.36, p = .002). However, there were no statistically significant differences in unhealed fissure (OR = 2.21, 95% CI = 0.25 to 19.33, p = .47) or wound complication rates (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 0.50 to 4.99 p = .51) between AAF and LIS.

CONCLUSIONS

AAF is associated with less incontinence, but similar wound complications as well as a similar rate of unhealed fissures compared to LIS. However, further well-executed, multi-centre randomized trials are required to provide stronger evidence.

Operative and medical treatment of chronic anal fissures-a review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Anal fissures are a common problem and have a cumulative lifetime incidence of 11%. Previous reviews on anal fissures show inconsistent results regarding post-interventional healing and incontinence rates. In this review our aim was to compare the treatments for chronic anal fissures by incorporating indirect comparisons using network meta-analysis. The PubMed database was searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 1975 and 2015. The primary outcome measures were healing and incontinence rates after lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS), anal dilatation (DILA), anoplasty and/or fissurectomy (FIAP), botulinum toxin (BT) and noninvasive treatment (NIT). Random effects network meta-analyses were complemented by fixed effects and Bayesian models. The present analysis included 44 RCTs and 3268 patients. After a median follow-up of 2 months, the healing rates for LIS, DILA, FIAP, BT and NIT were 93.1, 84.4, 79.8, 62.6, and 58.6% and the incontinence rates were 9.4, 18.2, 4.9, 4.1, and 3.0%, respectively. Compared with NIT, the odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] for healing after LIS, DILA, FIAP and BT was 9.9 (5.4-18.1), 8.6 (3.1-24.0), 3.5 (1.0-12.7) and 1.9 (1.1-3.5), respectively, on network meta-analysis. The OR (95% CI) for incontinence after LIS, DILA, FIAP and BT was 6.8 (3.1-15.1), 16.9 (6.0-47.8), 3.9 (1.0-15.1) and 1.6 (0.7-3.7), respectively. Ranking of treatments, fixed effects and Bayesian models confirmed these findings. In conclusion, based on our meta-analysis LIS is the most efficacious treatment but is compromised by a high rate of postoperative incontinence. Given the trade-offs between the risks and benefits, FIAP and BT might be good alternatives for the treatment of chronic anal fissures.

Stress and psychopathology and its impact on quality of life in chronic anal fissure (CAF) patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) onset, exacerbation, and impact on quality of life are influenced by a host of psychological, physiological, and social factors. We aimed to investigate the difference in psychopathology and stress between normal and CAF groups.

METHODS

Thirty CAF patients and 20 age-sex matched healthy controls were evaluated for Axis I psychopathology, depression, anxiety, and stress with Hamilton and Hospital Depression-Anxiety Scales, Perceived Stress Scale, and SF-36.

RESULTS

With a mean age of 39.47, 83.3% of CAF patients were female. Anxiety-depression and stress scores were all significantly higher and functionality was lower in the CAF group compared to controls (p < 0.001); 36.7% of the patients had a triggering stress factor and 56.6% had an exacerbating stress factor; 56.7% of the patients had an ongoing Axis I psychopathology while 50% had a previous psychopathology. Pain (96.7% had pain (VAS = 6.55)) and bleeding (83.3% had bleeding (VAS = 4.14)) severity showed a negative impact on bodily pain and role limitations emotional subscales of SF36.

CONCLUSION

There is a high comorbidity of psychopathology in the CAF patients and depression and anxiety severities show a negative impact on the quality of life. Stress acts as both a triggering and an exacerbating factor in CAF.

A novel method for treatment of chronic anal fissure: adipose-derived regenerative cells - a pilot study

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and feasibility of autologous adipose-derived regenerative cells (ADRC) in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

METHOD

A prospective pilot study was conducted in six patients with chronic anal fissures at the First Surgical Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia and at the BelPrime Clinic, Belgrade, Serbia. All patients were candidates for surgical treatment. The average duration of symptoms was 24 months. Pain assessment was quantified using a visual analogue scale and bowel continence was assessed using the Wexner incontinence score. Both were assessed before treatment and during each postoperative outpatient visit. Liposuction was performed under local or general anaesthesia. Extraction of ADRC was achieved with a closed automated medical device. The fat and ADRC were injected subcutaneously into the edge of the fissure. The rest of the pellet was infiltrated into the internal anal sphincter. The study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02628522).

RESULTS

Complete healing of the anal fissure and the disappearance of symptoms was achieved in all patients. The average time to complete pain cessation was 33.7 ± 15.0 days. All fissures healed after 3 months and remained healed 12 months after the procedure. There were no complications related to the procedure.

CONCLUSION

The application of ADRC may be an alternative to lateral sphincterotomy and a reliable procedure which avoids faecal incontinence.

Percutaneous Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation vs Perianal Application of Glyceryl Trinitrate Ointment in the Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Current therapeutic guidelines for the treatment of chronic anal fissure establish a medical approach as the first step. Glyceryl trinitrate ointment is the most popular of the available topical treatments in Spain but it is associated with the appearance of headache.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the compliance rate among patients receiving glyceryl trinitrate treatment for chronic anal fissure with that among patients receiving percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation.

DESIGN

This was a prospective randomized study.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at Garcilaso Clinic (Madrid, Spain).

PATIENTS

Subjects with persistent anal fissure despite hygiene and dietary measures applied over at least a 6-week period were included.

INTERVENTIONS

Study interventions were perianal application of glyceryl trinitrate ointment (twice daily for 8 weeks) and percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (30-minute session 2 days per week for 8 weeks).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Compliance with the treatment and healing rate of chronic anal fissure in patients receiving glyceryl trinitrate ointment or undergoing percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation were evaluated.

RESULTS

Forty patients were included in each group. In the glyceryl trinitrate ointment group, 15% of the patients discontinued treatment because of disabling headaches. There were no adverse effects or treatment withdrawals in the percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation group (p = 0.033). After 8 weeks of treatment, the healing rate in the percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation group was 87.5% vs 65.0% in the glyceryl trinitrate ointment group (p = 0.018).

LIMITATIONS

Because the patients were not blinded to the treatment, we cannot rule out a placebo effect derived from the needle insertion in the percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation group.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation is a safe and effective alternative that is in some ways superior to glyceryl trinitrate ointment for the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

Optimal Dosing of Botulinum Toxin for Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissures are associated with significant morbidity and reduced quality of life. Studies have investigated the efficacy of botulinum toxin with variable results; thus, there is currently no consensus on botulinum toxin dose or injection sites.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to systematically analyze trials studying the efficacy of botulinum toxin for treatment of chronic anal fissure to identify an optimum dosage and injection regimen.

DATA SOURCES

A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to June 2015.

STUDY SELECTION

All clinical trials that investigated the efficacy of botulinum toxin for chronic anal fissure were selected according to specific criteria.

INTERVENSIONS

The interventions used were various doses of botulinum toxin.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical outcomes, dosage, and injection site data were evaluated with weighted pooled results for each dosage and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

There were 1158 patients, with 661 in botulinum toxin treatment arms, from 18 clinical trials included in this review. The outcomes of interest were 3-month healing, incontinence, and recurrence rates. Meta-regression analysis demonstrated a small decrease in healing rate (0.34%; 95% CI, 0-0.68; p = 0.048) with each increase in dosage, a small increase in incontinence rate (1.02 times; 95% CI, 1.0002-1.049; p = 0.048) with each increase in dosage and a small increase in recurrence rate (1.037 times; 95% CI, 1.018-1.057; p = 0.0002) with each increase in dosage. The optimum injection site could not be determined.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by weaknesses in the underlying evidence, such as variable quality, short follow-up, and a limited range of doses represented.

CONCLUSIONS

Fissure healing with lower doses of botulinum toxin is as effective as with high doses. Lower doses also reduce the risk of incontinence and recurrence in the long term.

Increased anal basal pressure in chronic anal fissures may be caused by overreaction of the anal-external sphincter continence reflex

Chronic anal fissure is a painful disorder caused by linear ulcers in the distal anal mucosa. Even though it counts as one of the most common benign anorectal disorders, its precise etiology and pathophysiology remains unclear. Current thinking is that anal fissures are caused by anal trauma and pain, which leads to internal anal sphincter hypertonia. Increased anal basal pressure leads to diminished anodermal blood flow and local ischemia, which delays healing and leads to chronic anal fissure. The current treatment of choice for chronic anal fissure is either lateral internal sphincterotomy or botulinum toxin injections. In contrast to current thinking, we hypothesize that the external, rather than the internal, anal sphincter is responsible for increased anal basal pressure in patients suffering from chronic anal fissure. We think that damage to the anal mucosa leads to hypersensitivity of the contact receptors of the anal-external sphincter continence reflex, resulting in overreaction of the reflex. Overreaction causes spasm of the external anal sphincter. This in turn leads to increased anal basal pressure, diminished anodermal blood flow, and ischemia. Ischemia, finally, prevents the anal fissure from healing. Our hypothesis is supported by two findings. The first concerned a chronic anal fissure patient with increased anal basal pressure (170mmHg) who had undergone lateral sphincterotomy. Directly after the operation, while the submucosal anesthetic was still active, basal anal pressure decreased to 80mmHg. Seven hours after the operation, when the anesthetic had completely worn off, basal anal pressure increased again to 125mmHg, even though the internal anal sphincter could no longer be responsible for the increase. Second, in contrast to previous studies, recent studies demonstrated that botulinum toxin influences external anal sphincter activity and, because it is a striated muscle relaxant, it seems reasonable to presume that it affects the striated external anal sphincter, rather than the smooth internal anal sphincter. If our hypothesis is proved correct, the treatment option of lateral internal sphincterotomy should be abandoned in patients suffering from chronic anal fissures, since it fails to eliminate the cause of high anal basal pressure. Additionally, lateral internal sphincterotomy may cause damage to the anal-external sphincter continence reflex, resulting in fecal incontinence. Instead, higher doses of botulinum toxin should be administered to those patients suffering from chronic anal fissure who appeared unresponsive to lower doses.

Comparative study of conventional lateral internal sphincterotomy, V-Y anoplasty, and tailored lateral internal sphincterotomy with V-Y anoplasty in the treatment of chronic anal fissure

BACKGROUND

Lateral internal sphincterotomy has been proven highly effective in curing anal fissure but with a high incidence of postoperative incontinence.

OBJECTIVE

We compared conventional lateral internal sphincterotomy, V-Y advancement flap, and combined tailored lateral internal sphincterotomy with V-Y advancement flap in treating anal fissure.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients treated for anal fissure at our colorectal unit were evaluated for inclusion. Participants were randomly allocated to receive conventional sphincterotomy (GI), V-Y advancement flap (GII), or combined tailored lateral sphincterotomy with V-Y advancement l flap (GIII).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was the incontinence rate; secondary outcomes included healing rate, operative time, anal manometery, and recurrence rate.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty patients with chronic anal fissure were randomized. Healing rate after 1 year was 84% in GI, 48% in GII, and 94% in GIII, respectively (P = 0.001). The recurrence rate was 4% in G1, 22% in GII, and 2% in GIII (P = 0.01). Incontinence rate was 14% in GI, 0% in GII, and 2% in GIII (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Although all three procedures are simple and easy to perform, tailored lateral internal sphincterotomy with V-YF appears to produce the greatest healing rate, with the fewest complications and less rate of recurrence.

Topical diltiazem cream versus botulinum toxin a for the treatment of chronic anal fissure: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

A double-blind randomized clinical trial to compare topical diltiazem with botulinum toxin A (BTA) in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissures remain a challenging condition. Topical diltiazem and BTA are promising agents in the treatment of anal fissure. As to date diltiazem and BTA were never compared in a solid randomized trial, which is the purpose of this study.

METHODS

One hundred thirty-four patients were randomized to receive either diltiazem cream and placebo injection or BTA injection and placebo cream. The primary end point was fissure healing after 3 months.

RESULTS

After 3 months healing of the fissure was noted in 32 of 74 (43%) patients in the diltiazem group and 26 of 60 (43%) patients in the BTA group. Reduction >50% in mean pain score was noted in 58 of 74 (78%) patients in the diltiazem group and 49 of 60 (82%) patients in the BTA group. Perianal itching was the only side effect reported and was noted in 15% of patients in the diltiazem group, and this difference was statistically significant (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

BTA yields higher healing rates in the short term, though after 3 months diltiazem and BTA resulted in equal healing rates. Also no significant difference in pain reduction was observed for both treatments. This study shows no significant advantage of one treatment compared to the other. This randomized clinical trial is registered by the Dutch Trial Register as NTR1012.

Segmental internal sphincterotomy--a new technique for treatment of chronic anal fissure

OBJECTIVE

Lateral internal sphincterotomy is an effective treatment for fissure in ano but carries a definite risk of incontinence. In trial to avoid this complication, segmental lateral internal sphincterotomy was used to treat chronic anal fissures.

DESIGN

The lateral internal sphincterotomy was done in two parts and at different planes.

SETTING

This study was conducted in the General Surgery Department, Zagazig University Hospital, Egypt.

PATIENTS

This study was undertaken on 50 patients (43 men and seven women, with mean age of 37.3 years) with chronic fissure in ano from January 2009 to December 2010.

INTERVENTIONS

Under general or local anesthesia, lateral internal sphincterotomy was done in two segments under direct vision. Preoperative and postoperative anal manometry study was recorded.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Postoperative course with early and long-term results were recorded. Mean follow-up was 18.5 months (ranging from 6 to 24 months).

RESULTS

In 31 patients, the technique was done under general anesthesia and the remainder under local anesthesia. The fissures and anal wounds were healed within 4 weeks. Pain was significantly reduced in all patients at day 1 postoperative. Early complications included mild hematoma and urine retention in one male patient (2%). No transient or any persistent degree of incontinence occurred in these patients group.

CONCLUSION

Segmental lateral internal sphincterotomy is a safe, easy, and effective procedure and not associated with risk of incontinence for the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

Is There Any Relationship between the Chronicity of Chronic Anal Fissure and Endothelin-1?

PURPOSE

Many kinds of substances are produced on vascular endothelial activation. The aim of this study is to confirm an increase in Endothelin-1 (ET-1), the most potent vasoconstrictor, which is produced by endothelial activation, in patients with chronic anal fissure and to infer the relationship between ET-1 and anal fissure chronicity.

METHODS

The study groups are divided into three different groups with 30 subjects each. Group 1 is comprised of healthy volunteers, group 2 of chronic anal fissure patients, and Group 3 of patients with higher than 3rd degree hemorrhoids. Blood samples were taken to measure the ET-1 levels in subject's serum and to compare the results with those for the control groups.

RESULTS

Among the 90 subjects, 38 were male, and 52 were female. The average age was 36.8. The average ET-1 level marked 1.47 ± 0.78 pg/mL for male subjects and 1.16 ± 0.47 pg/mL for female subjects (P = 0.02). The average ET-1 level in the patient groups is as follow: 1.21 ± 0.44 pg/mL in group 1, 1.46 ± 0.83 pg/mL in group 2, and 1.20 ± 0.56 pg/mL in group 3 (P = 0.14).

CONCLUSION

Group 2, the chronic anal fissure patient group, showed a higher ET-1 level than groups 1 and 3, the control group and the hemorrhoid patient group, but this difference had no statistical significance.

Fissurectomy and anal advancement flap for anterior chronic anal fissure without hypertonia of the internal anal sphincter in females

AIM

Lateral internal sphincterotomy is considered the surgical treatment of choice for chronic anal fissure after failure of medical therapy but it risks continence. The aim of the study was to evaluate fissurectomy with advancement flap for anterior chronic anal fissure (CAAF) resistant to medical therapy.

METHOD

Sixteen women with CAAF without hypertonia of the internal anal sphincter, unresponsive to previous medical treatment, were included in the study. Absence of hypertonia was defined as a maximum anal resting pressure (MRP) of less than 85 mmHg. All patients underwent fissurectomy with an advancement skin flap.

RESULTS

Complete healing occurred in all patients within 30 days. The intensity and the duration of pain after defecation reduced from the first postoperative defecation. MRP before surgery and at 6 months showed no significant difference. At 1 month, four patients experienced a continence disturbance, two of whom had it preoperatively. At 12 months, two (12.5%) patients continued to experience a continence disturbance.

CONCLUSION

Fissurectomy with skin advancement flap resulted in complete healing and full relief of symptoms in all patients. There was a low incidence of continence disturbance.

Conservative and surgical treatment of chronic anal fissure: prospective longer term results

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the efficacy of different medical treatments and surgery in the treatment of chronic anal fissure (CAF).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 2004 to March 2009, 311 patients with typical CAF completed the study. All patients were initially treated with 0.2% nitroglycerin ointment (GTN) or anal dilators (DIL) for 8 weeks. If no improvement was observed after 8 weeks, the patients were assigned to the other treatment or a combination of the two. Persisting symptoms after 12 weeks or recurrence were indications for either botulinum toxin injection into the internal sphincter and fissurectomy or lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS). During the follow-up (29 +/- 16 months), healing rates, symptoms, incontinence scores, and therapy adverse effects were prospectively recorded.

RESULTS

Overall healing rates were 64.6% and 94% after GTN/DIL or BTX/LIS. Healing rate after GTN or DIL after 12 weeks course were 54.5% and 61.5%, respectively. Fifty-four patients (17.4%) responded to further medical therapy. One hundred two patients (32.8%) underwent BTX or LIS. Healing rate after BTX was 83.3% and overall healing after LIS group was 98.7% with no definitive incontinence.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, although LIS is far more effective than medical treatments, BTX injection/fissurectomy as first line treatment may significantly increase the healing rate while avoiding any risk of incontinence.

Fissurectomy combined with anoplasty and injection of botulinum toxin in treatment of anterior chronic anal fissure with hypertonia of internal anal sphincter: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

In patients affected by anterior chronic anal fissure (CAAF) with hypertonia of the internal anal sphincter (IAS), the role of IAS hypertonia remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of fissurectomy combined with advancement flap and IAS injection of botulinum toxin in healing the CAAF with hypertonia of IAS resistant to medical therapy.

METHODS

Ten consecutive patients were enrolled. Anorectal manometry was performed preoperatively and at 6 months. CAAF with hypertonia was defined as those associated with maximum resting pressure (MRP) values higher than 85 mmHg. All patients underwent fissurectomy and anoplasty with advancement skin flap combined with the intrasphincter injection of 30 UI of botulinum toxin. Complete healing, MRP changes, relief of symptoms and immediate and long-term complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Complete healing was observed in all patients within 30 days of the operation. The intensity and duration of pain post-defecation was reduced significantly starting from the first defecation. In all subjects, the preoperative MRP values were significantly reduced at 6 months. One month after surgery, three patients reported anal incontinence, two of them had complained preoperatively. The only postoperative complications were minor.

CONCLUSIONS

Fissurectomy combined with advancement flap and intrasphincter injection of botulinum toxin results in complete healing, significant MRP reduction and full relief of symptom in all patients, thus it represents a valid procedure in preventing the occurrence of anal incontinence.

Early Results of Fissurectomy and Advancement Flap for Resistant Chronic Anal Fissure without Hypertonia of the Internal Anal Sphincter

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of fissurectomy with skin advancement flap in healing chronic anal fissures without hypertonia of the internal anal sphincter. Twenty-six consecutive patients who failed healing after well-practiced topical medical therapy were enrolled. Anorectal manometry was performed preoperative and 6 months postoperatively. All patients were treated with fissurectomy and advancement flap through healthy skin tissue. All patients healed completely within 30 days from operation. The intensity and the duration of pain post-defecation was reduced significantly with respect to the preoperative values starting from the first defecation. One patient suffered urinary retention, two patients suffered infections, and two partial breakdowns were recorded. At 6 months the maximum resting pressure values were similar to those were detected preoperatively. One month after surgery, anal incontinence was reported in seven patients, four of whom complained about it preoperatively. At 12 months, only three subjects reported incontinence. No patients needed reoperation and no recurrences were detected. The fissurectomy, in combination with advancement flap, is a safe sphincter-saving procedure for the treatment of chronic anal fissures without hypertonia of internal anal sphincter that fails medical conservative treatment.

Blinded randomized clinical trial of botulinum toxin versus isosorbide dinitrate ointment for treatment of anal fissure

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide donors such as isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) are considered the first choice of treatment for anal fissure. After reports of the successful treatment of such fissures with botulinum toxin, this randomized blinded trial compared botulinum toxin with ISDN in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to receive an injection of botulinum in the internal anal sphincter and a placebo ointment, or a placebo injection and ISDN ointment. The primary endpoint was macroscopic fissure healing after 4 months.

RESULTS

After 4 months macroscopic healing of the fissures was noted in 14 of 37 patients in the botulinum group and 21 of 36 in the ISDN group. Pain scores were lower among patients who received ISDN, although the difference was not significant. Side-effects were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

In contrast with previous reports on botulinum toxin as a therapeutic agent for anal fissure, this study found no advantage over treatment with a nitric oxide donor as regards fissure healing and fissure-related pain.

Anal fissures associated with targeted therapies in ovarian cancer

Although ovarian cancer remains a leading cause of gynecologic cancer death, targeted therapies are improving patient outcomes. Anal fissures are a side effect of targeted therapies that can disrupt or stop treatment regimens. Diagnosis and management of anal fissures by advanced practice nurses are crucial for maintaining the quality of life of patients with ovarian cancer.

Results of lateral internal sphincterotomy with open technique for chronic anal fissure: evaluation of complications, symptom relief, and incontinence with long-term follow-up

The aim of this study is to investigate the results of open lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) and the recurrence and incontinence rate, to perform a long-term assessment of incontinence and to assess complications and relief of symptoms. This clinical prospective study was undertaken in patients undergoing open LIS. One hundred and twenty-nine patients entered the study. Mean duration of pain relief was 1.2 +/- 0.4 days and mean time before defecation without pain was 1.9 +/- 1.0 days. Complication rate was 41.8%. We found that urine retention was seen frequently in males. We demonstrated that open LIS up to the dentate line does not have a higher rate of incontinence. Incontinence after LIS was only to flatus and two-thirds of these resolved in 6 weeks. No patient showed improvement of incontinence after 6 weeks.

Idiopathic hypertensive anal canal: a place of internal sphincterotomy

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive anal canal is frequently known to be associated with the presence of anal fissure. Based on clinical experience, we hypothesized that idiopathic anal sphincter hypertonia was a condition equivalent to anal fissure, and therefore, it could be treated the same way.

PATIENT AND METHODS

Sixty-three patients complaining of anal pain without any anal pathology and ten healthy volunteers were examined. All patients underwent clinical evaluation, neurological examination, anorectal manometry, and measurement of pudendal nerve terminal motor latency. All patients with hypertensive anal canal were randomized into three groups. Group I (surgical group) underwent closed lateral sphincterotomy (LS), group II using nitroglycerine ointment (GTN), and group III received injection of botulinum toxin in internal sphincter. Post-procedures data were recorded at follow-up period.

RESULTS

The mean resting anal pressure (MRAP) was significantly higher in the patient group (114.6 +/- 7.4 mmHg) than control group (72.5 +/- 6.6 mmHg, P < 0.001). Anal pain is the main presenting symptoms aggravated by defecation and not relived by analgesics or local anesthetics. After LS, pain visual analogue scale decreased significantly at follow-up period than after chemical sphincterotomy using GTN or BTX (P = 0.001). There was a significant decrease in MRAP postoperatively from 114.6 +/- 7.4 to 70.8 +/- 5.5 mmHg than after using GTN or BTX (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Idiopathic hypertensive anal canal is a fact and already exists presented by anal pain aggravated by defecation. It can be managed safely by closed lateral sphincterotomy, but chemical sphincterotomy had a minor role in its management.

A pilot comparative study of fissurectomy/diltiazem and fissurectomy/botulinum toxin in the treatment of chronic anal fissure

BACKGROUND

Treatment of chronic anal fissure (CAF) by fissurectomy with botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection results in a healing rate of greater than 90%. BTA injection, however, can cause incontinence and perianal sepsis. The decrease in sphincter pressure following topical treatment with 2% diltiazem cream (DTC) is comparable to that following BTA injection but with potentially fewer complications and at less cost. We report the shortterm results of a pilot study comparing fissurectomy with BTA and fissurectomy followed by DTC for the treatment of CAF.

METHODS

The recorded outcomes of CAF following treatment with the two methods were analysed retrospectively. Patients underwent either fissurectomy followed by injection of 40 U BTA into the internal sphincter (group A) or fissurectomy followed by the perianal application of DTC twice daily for 8 weeks (group B). Symptom resolution and treatment side effects at the initial follow-up were compared.

RESULTS

Demographics, fissure characteristics and the number of multiparous women between the two groups were comparable. At a median follow-up of 12 weeks (range 8-20 weeks), the two groups had similar rates of complete symptom resolution (group A, 25/28, 89.3%; group B, 19/23, 82.6%; p=0.7739), with minor side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small pilot study fissurectomy combined with chemical sphincterotomy resulted in high short-term fissure healing rates. The study also suggested that fissurectomy followed by 8 weeks of topical DTC may be as good as fissurectomy with BTA injection in the treatment of CAF. A prospective study, adequately powered to determine the significance of differences is needed.

Fine-tuning of the extent of lateral internal sphincterotomy: spasm-controlled vs. up to the fissure apex

PURPOSE

This study was designed to compare the results of controlled lateral internal sphincterotomy by using anal calibrators with those of sphincterotomy up to the fissure apex in a randomized, prospective fashion.

METHODS

In the fissure apex group, sphincterotomy was extended to the level of the fissure apex, and in the spasm-controlled group, serial small sphincterotomies and anal caliber measurements followed until an anal caliber of 30 mm was obtained.

RESULTS

The preoperative anal caliber was 24 +/- 1.9 (range, 20-28) mm and 24.9 +/- 2.44 (range, 19-28) mm in the spasm-controlled and fissure apex groups, respectively (P = 0.127). Postoperatively, the spasm-controlled group had a mean anal caliber of 31.5 +/- 1.28 (range, 30-32) mm, and the fissure apex group had 32.5 +/- 2.33 (range, 25-37) mm (P = 0.035). In the fissure apex group, a significant negative correlation was determined between the postoperative anal caliber and time of relief of pain (r = -0.568, P = 0.001). The early (7 and 28 days) postoperative anal incontinence scores were significantly higher in the fissure apex group (P = 0.002, P < 0.0001, respectively). A significant positive correlation between the anal caliber measurements and anal incontinence scores at 28 days and 2 months also was noted in the fissure apex group (r = 0.406, P = 0.023; and r = 0.364, P = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

Controlled sphincterotomy provided a faster relief of pain, and it was associated with a lower rate of early postoperative disturbance of continence and an insignificantly lower rate of treatment failure compared with sphincterotomy up to the fissure apex.

Medical and surgical treatment of chronic anal fissure: a prospective study

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the efficacy of different medical treatments and surgery in the treatment of chronic anal fissure (CAF). From 1/04 to 09/06, 156 patients with typical CAF completed the study. All patients were treated with 0.2% nitroglycerin ointment (GTN) or anal dilators (DIL) for 8 weeks. If no improvement was observed after 8 weeks, patient was assigned to the other treatment or a combination of the two. Persisting symptoms after 12 weeks or recurrence were indications for either botulinum toxin injection into the internal sphincter and fissurectomy or lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS). During the follow-up (19 +/- 8 months), healing rates, symptoms, incontinence scores, and therapy adverse effects were prospectively recorded. Overall healing rates were 65.3 and 96.3% after GTN/DIL or BTX/LIS. Healing rate after GTN or DIL were 39.8 and 46%, respectively. Thirty-six patients (23.1%) responded to further medical therapy. Fifty-four patients (34.6%) underwent BTX or LIS. Healing rate after BTX was 81.8%. LIS group showed a 100% healing rate with no morbidity and postoperative incontinence. In conclusion, although LIS is far more effective than medical treatments, BTX injection/fissurectomy as first line treatment may significantly increase the healing rate while avoiding any risk of incontinence.

La respuesta inicial al diltiazem tópico puede predecir la evolución de la fisura anal crónica

INTRODUCTION

In the last few years, the medical treatment of chronic anal fissure (chemical sphincterotomy) has been introduced as a consequence of the morbidity attributed to surgical sphincterotomy. However, medical treatment has two disadvantages: moderate effectiveness (between 30% and 80%) and the need for treatment to be prolonged for more than 8 weeks.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate initial response to topical diltiazem 2% topical gel as a predictive factor in the curability of chronic anal fissure.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

From February 2004 to December 200, all patients with a history of anal fissure of more than 6 weeks were included in this study. Pregnant patients and those with prior anal surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, diltiazem intolerance and problems for maintaining contact during follow-up were excluded. A magistral formula of diltiazem 2% gel was used in three applications daily for 8 weeks. Patients were followed-up clinically and pain was measured through a visual analog scale (VAS) at the end of weeks 1, 3, 6, and 8. Groups with and without response to diliazem were compared through the chi2 test, Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test. A Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of initial pain response to diliazem, as well as sensitivity, specificity and predictive values.

RESULTS

One hundred patients (70 men), with a mean age of 43 years (22-76) were analyzed. Localization was posterior in 87%, anterior in 11% and lateral in 2%. All patients had pain, 65 had bleeding, and 13 had pruritus. At the end of the 8-week treatment, cure was achieved in 62%, with morbidity of 5% (mild headache in 2%, and pruritus in 3%). No significant differences were found between the groups with and without response to diltiazem 2% in terms of age, sex, localization, bleeding, or pruritus. Notable differences were found in the VAS for pain at the end of weeks 1, 3, 6, and 8 between the two groups (p = 0.00). ROC curves established a cut-off point of 4 in the VAS at the end of week 1, with an area below the curve of 0.925 (95% CI, 0.858-0.989). The capacity of early response to diliazem to predict curability showed a sensitivity of 85.5% (95% CI, 74.7%-92.2%), a specificity of 92.1% (95% CI, 79.2%-97.3%), a positive predictive value of 94.6% (95% CI, 85.4%-98.2%), and a negative predictive value of 79.5% (95% CI, 65.5%-88.8%). Among patients who showed no response to diltiazem by the end of week 1, cure was achieved in only 9% at 8 weeks. In contrast, among those with a favorable response in the first week, cure was achieved in 94.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

Lack of response to topical diltiazem 2% gel at the end of the first week reliably predicts failure of medical treatment for chronic anal fissure, obviating the need to prolong treatment for 8 weeks.