Evaluation and management of perianal abscess and anal fistula: a consensus statement developed by the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR)

Aerobic Microbiological Spectrum and Antibiotic Resistance in Children Operated for Anorectal Abscesses

(1) Background: Anorectal abscesses are a relatively rare pathology in childhood. Most often, male children under 1 year of age are affected. The importance of microbiological examination for the diagnosis and treatment of such patients remains debatable among surgeons, resulting in scarce data being available in the literature. We aimed to identify the aerobic microbiological spectrum and antibiotic resistance of isolates in children undergoing operation to treat anorectal abscesses. (2) Methods: We performed a case series of 102 children diagnosed and operated for anorectal abscesses over a period of 10 years (2010-2019). Purulent wound exudate was used for microbiological evaluation, which was subsequently cultured on 5% sheep-blood agar and eosin-methylene blue agar. For microbiological identification, conventional biochemical tests and semi-automated (API 20, bioMerieux, Marcy-l'Étoile, France) tests were used, as well as automated systems (Vitek-2 Compact, bioMerieux, France). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the disk diffusion method of Bauer-Kirby and by determining the minimal inhibitory concentrations for glycopeptides. The results were interpreted according to the EUCAST standard for the corresponding year. (3) Results: Microbiological testing in children operated for anorectal abscesses mainly identified the gut commensals that normally reside in the rectal mucosa. Monocultures were found in just over half of the cases. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae complex, and Proteus mirabilis were the most frequently isolated. In addition, Staphylococcus aureus was found in 7% of patients. In Gram-negative bacteria, antibiotic resistance was most often observed in penicillins, cephalosporins, sulfonamides, and fluoroquinolones. (4) Conclusions: The increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance impose the need for the local monitoring of circulating commensal bacteria associated with anorectal abscesses in children to guide antibiotic therapy when indicated.

Efficacy and safety of video-assisted anal fistula treatment in anorectal fistula: a meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

By searching relevant literature, the recurrence rate, complication rate after video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT), and efficacy and safety of the treatment were analyzed.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Articles that reported the outcomes of VAAFT up to December 2020 were searched in PubMed (Medline) and Cochrane Library, in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) screening guidelines. Two researchers independently completed the whole process from screening and inclusion to quality evaluation and bias risk assessment, and the data was included in the RevMan 5.3 software for analysis. The main outcomes were demographic data of patients, detection rate, classification of internal opening of anorectal fistula, postoperative recurrence rate, and incidence of complications.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A total of 10 articles were included (779 patients). The average age of the patients was 44 years old, average operation time was 60 min, and the average follow-up time was 22 months. The ratio of male to female was 2.4:1, the ratio of high anorectal fistula to low anorectal fistula was 6.6:1, the detection rate of internal openings was 98%, the weighted recurrence rate was 24%, and the weighted complication rate was 1%.

CONCLUSIONS

VAAFT is effective and safe in the treatment of anorectal fistulas.

Surgery of Simple and Complex Anal Fistulae in Adults: A Review of the Literature for Optimal Surgical Outcomes

Anal fistulas are common anorectal conditions, and surgery is the primary treatment option. In the last 20 years of literature, there exist a large number of surgical procedures, especially for the treatment of complex anal fistulas, as they present more recurrences and continence problems than simple anal fistulas. To date, there are no guidelines for choosing the best technique. We conducted a recent literature review, mainly the last 20 years, based on the PubMed and Google Scholar medical databases, with the goal of identifying the surgical procedures with the highest success rates, lowest recurrence rates, and best safety profiles. Clinical trials, retrospective studies, review articles, comparative studies, recent systematic reviews, and meta-analyses for various surgical techniques, as well as the latest guidelines of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland, and the German S3 guidelines on simple and complex fistulas were reviewed. According to the literature, there is no recommendation for the optimal surgical technique. The etiology, complexity, and many other factors affect the outcome. In simple intersphincteric anal fistulas, fistulotomy is the procedure of choice. In simple low transsphincteric fistulas, the patient's selection is crucial in order to perform a safe fistulotomy or another sphincter-saving technique. The healing rate in simple anal fistulas is higher than 95% with low recurrence and without significant postoperative complications. In complex anal fistulas, only sphincter-saving techniques should be used; the optimal outcomes are obtained by the ligation of the intersphincteric fistulous tract (LIFT) and rectal advancement flaps. Those techniques assure high healing rates of 60-90%. The novel technique of the transanal opening of the intersphincteric space (TROPIS) is under evaluation. The novel sphincter-saving techniques of fistula laser closure (FiLac) and video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) are safe, with reported healing rates ranging from 65% to 90%. Surgeons should be familiar with all sphincter-saving techniques in order to face the variability of the fistulas-in-ano. Currently, there is no universally superior technique that can treat all fistulas.

Acute supralevator abscess: the little we know

INTRODUCTION

Acute supralevator abscess (SLA) is an uncommon and complicated form of anorectal sepsis. Its correct management is crucial to avoid complex iatrogenic fistula formation. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to determine the incidence of SLA and the surgical outcome with particular reference to the direction of drainage.

METHODS

A search of Medline, PubMed and the Cochrane Library was performed to identify all studies reporting surgical drainage of SLA.

FINDINGS

A total of 19 studies were identified, including 563 patients. The only two prospective studies reported an incidence of SLA of 10% and 3% in 68 and 100 patients, respectively, with anorectal sepsis. In 17 retrospective studies, the incidence ranged from 0% to 28%. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed routinely in only one study. The surgical anatomical classification of the abscess was described in six studies diagnosed at surgery. The direction of surgical drainage whether 'inwards' (into the lumen) or 'outwards' (into the ischioanal fossa) was stated in only six studies. In two of these, the direction of drainage was contradictory to the recommendation made by Parks et al. Recurrent sepsis was reported in eight studies and ranged from 0% to 53%.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed and prospective data on acute SLA are lacking. Its real incidence is unclear and it is not possible to analyse surgical outcomes conclusively according to different direction of drainage. The routine use of MRI in complicated anorectal sepsis would specify the surgical anatomy of SLA before any drainage is carried out.

Treatment of anal fistula using a decellularized porcine small intestinal submucosa plug: A non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

Using small intestinal submucosa (SIS) has increasingly become the standard method for the treatment of anal fistula. The porcine SIS manufactured by Biosis Healing is a novel biological material that has several advantages for the safe and effective repair of tissues. Our study aimed to verify the efficacy and safety of the decellularized porcine SIS (VIDASIS) anal fistula plug.

METHODS

We conducted a non-inferiority multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial involving patients with chronic anal fistula. Patients from 3 centers across China were randomized 1:1 to Biosis SIS vs commercial SIS. The primary endpoint was the healing rate and secondary endpoints included recurrence within 6 months, rate of copracrasia, healing time, pain using a visual analog scale, and patient and doctor satisfaction.

RESULTS

A total of 186 patients were randomized. Of these, 82 patients in the Biosis SIS and 81 in the control (commercial) SIS completed the trial (per-protocol set). The healing rate at the 6-month follow-up (full analysis set) was 92.0% for the Biosis SIS and 89.8% for the control SIS (P = .620). The rate difference of 2.2% (full analysis set; 95% confidence interval: -6.4% and 10.7%, respectively) was within the pre-specified non-inferiority margin of -10%. There were no differences between the 2 groups with regard to the secondary endpoints. No serious adverse event or death occurred.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that the VIDASIS anal fistula plug manufactured by the company Biosis Healing is safe and effective and is not inferior to existing commercial SIS materials.

Anal fistula metastasis of rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Anal metastasis of colorectal cancer is very rare and may present synchronously or metachronously, regardless of pre-existing anal diseases. We report a case of anal fistula metastasis after completion of neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer, followed by surgical resection of the primary tumor and metastatic lesion.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 50-year-old man was diagnosed with rectal cancer located 5 cm from the anal verge, with a clinical stage of cT3N0M0. He denied any medical or surgical history, and physical examination revealed no perianal disease. He underwent preoperative chemoradiation therapy (CRT) consisting of a tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil potassium (S-1)-based regimen with 45 Gy of radiation. After completion of CRT, computed tomography (CT) revealed the primary tumor's partial response, but a liver mass highly suggestive of metastasis was detected. This mass was later diagnosed as cavernous hemangioma 3 months after CRT initiation. He then underwent and completed six cycles of consolidation chemotherapy with a capecitabine-based regimen. Subsequent colonoscopy revealed the complete response of the primary tumor, but CT showed thickening of the edematous rectal wall. Therefore, we planned to perform low anterior resection as a radical surgery. However, he presented with persistent anal pain after the last chemotherapy, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a high-intensity mass behind the anus, suggestive of an anal fistula. We considered the differential diagnosis of a benign anal fistula or implantation metastasis into the anal fistula. Fistulectomy was performed, and a pathological diagnosis of tubular adenocarcinoma, suggestive of implantation metastasis, was made. Thereafter, we performed laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection. Histopathological examination revealed well-differentiated adenocarcinoma, ypT2N0, with a grade 2 therapeutic effect. Subsequent immunohistochemistry of the resected anal fistula showed a CDX-2-positive, CK20-positive, CK7-negative, and GCDFP-15 negative tumor, with implantation metastasis. There was no cancer recurrence 21 months after the radical surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of anal fistula metastasis after neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer in a patient without a previous history of anal disease. If an anal fistula is suspected during or after neoadjuvant therapy, physical and radiological assessment, differential diagnosis, and surgical intervention timing for fistula must be carefully discussed.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cryptoglandular Anal Fistula: Current State of Art

Anal fistula is a common disease that needs surgical treatment to be resolved. Despite a variety of surgical options, the major problem is still to cure complex fistulas without any recurrence in the long-term follow-up but, at the same time, to avoid an impairment of continence. In recent years, one solution has been the application of mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue, especially in association with other treatments, such as the use of fibrin glue or the previous application of a seton. Their initial use in fistulas associated with Crohn's disease has shown encouraging results. In this non-systematic review our aim is to analyze the use in cryptoglandular fistulas: the rate of healing is not so high, and the number of studies is limited. Therefore, further randomized controlled trials are needed to establish their efficacy in the case of complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas and their possible complications.

Treatment of anal fistula with FiLaC®: results of a 10-year experience with 175 patients

BACKGROUND

Treatment of fistula-in-ano with fistula laser closure (FiLaC^®) is a sphincter-saving procedure indicated for patients with complex anal fistulas. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical results of a 10-year experience with FiLaC^®.

METHODS

Data from patients with cryptoglandular anal fistula who underwent laser closure with FiLaC^® in June 2009-May 2019 were evaluated. The primary study endpoint was healing rate. Secondary endpoints were evaluation of morbidity and assessment of possible predictive factors of failure.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 180 patients, 5 had been lost to follow-up. 175 patients [m:f: 115:60; median age 49 years (range18-81 years)] with cryptoglandular fistulas treated with FiLaC^® were included in the study. Fistulas were transphincteric in 152 (86.8%) cases, intersphincteric in 18 (10.3%), and suprasphincteric in 5 (2.9%). A seton or draining silicon loop was placed in 142 (81.8%) patients at a median of 14 weeks (range10-28 weeks) prior to FiLaC^®. At median follow-up of 60 months (range 9-120 months), the overall primary healing rate was 66.8% (117/175). Thirty-eight patients (21.7%) failed to heal. Twenty out of 175 (11.4%) patients had recurrence at median follow-up of 18 months (range 9-50 months). Patients in whom a seton/loop was inserted for drainage at the first-stage procedure had a statistically significant higher rate of success (100/142, 70.4% vs. 17/33, 51.5%, respectively; p 0.0377; odds ratio 0.45). Forty-eight patients were reoperated on at a median of 15 months (range 12-20 months) after laser treatment. Twenty-six underwent redo laser closure with FiLaC^®, and 12 of them healed (46%), for a secondary success rate of 73.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

Longer follow-up confirms the efficacy of FiLaC^® in the treatment of complex anal fistulas. Its use and implementation should be encouraged.

Video-assisted anal fistula treatment combined with anal fistula plug for treatment of horseshoe anal fistula

Objective

Horseshoe anal fistula is a common anorectal disease, and there is no standard procedure for its treatment. In this study, we performed a modified surgical procedure for the treatment of horseshoe anal fistula and investigated its efficacy and adverse effects.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of video-assisted anal fistula treatment combined with an anal fistula plug (VAAFT-Plug) in 26 patients with a horseshoe anal fistula. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 18 months. Preoperative and postoperative data were collected to analyze the cure rate, anal sphincter function, and incidence of complications.

Results

The surgeries were successfully performed in all patients, 23 of whom were cured (effective cure rate of 88.46%). Three patients developed recurrence and were cured after traditional surgery. No patients developed severe complications or postoperative anal incontinence. The VAAFT-Plug protocol was performed with a small incision in the fistula that subsequently promoted fistula healing and preserved sphincter function.

Conclusion

Although randomized controlled trials will be needed to fully validate these findings, our results suggest that VAAFT-Plug represents a promising treatment strategy for horseshoe anal fistulas. This technique preserves normal anal function and achieves satisfactory outcomes in most patients.

Risk for developing perianal abscess in type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the impact of poor glycemic control

PURPOSE

The primary aim of this study was to see whether perianal abscess rate differs between patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. A secondary aim was to determine whether poor glycemic control increases the risk for perianal abscess.

METHODS

Data from the Swedish National Diabetes Registry and the Swedish National Patient Registry between January 2008 and June 2015 were matched. The risk for anal abscess was evaluated in univariate and multivariate analyses with type of diabetes, HbA1c level, BMI, and various diabetes complications as independent factors.

RESULTS

Patients with type 1 diabetes had a lower rate of perianal abscess than patients with type 2 diabetes when adjusted for HbA1c, sex, and age (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.57-0.73). The risk for perianal abscess increased with higher HbA1c. Incidence of perianal abscess was also elevated in diabetes patients with complications related to poor glycemic control such as ketoacidosis and coma (OR 2.63; 95% CI 2.06-3.35), gastroparesis, and polyneuropathy (OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.41-2.32).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of perianal abscess was higher among patients with type 2 diabetes than those with type 1, suggesting that metabolic derangement may be more important than autoimmune factors. Poor glycemic control was associated with higher risk for perianal abscess.

Could FiLaC™ be effective in the treatment of anal fistulas? A systematic review of observational studies and proportional meta-analysis

AIM

Fistula Laser Closure (FiLaC™) is a novel sphincter-preserving technique that is based on new technologies and shows promising results in repairing anal fistulas whilst maintaining external sphincter function. The aim of the present meta-analysis is to present the efficacy and the safety of FiLaC™ in the management of anal fistula disease.

METHOD

The present proportional meta-analysis was designed using the PRISMA and AMSTAR guidelines. We searched MEDLINE, Scopus, clinicaltrials.gov, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials CENTRAL and Google Scholar databases from inception until November 2019.

RESULTS

Overall, eight studies were included that recruited 476 patients. The pooled success rate of the technique was 63% (95% CI 50%-75%). The pooled complication rate was 8% (95% CI 1%-18%). Sixty-six per cent of patients had a transsphincteric fistula and 60% had undergone a previous surgical intervention, mainly the insertion of a seton (54%). The majority had a cryptoglandular fistula. Operation time and follow-up period were described for each study.

CONCLUSION

FiLaC™ seems to be an efficient therapeutic option for perianal fistula disease with an adequate level of safety that preserves quality of life. Nevertheless, randomized trials need to be designed to compare FiLaC™ with other procedures for the management of anal fistulas such as ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract, anal advancement flaps, fibrin glue, collagen paste, autologous adipose tissue, fistula plug and video-assisted anal fistula treatment.

Efficacy of video-assisted anal fistula treatment combined with closure of the internal opening using a stapler for Parks II anal fistula

Background

To explore the efficacy of video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) combined with an internal-opening closure technique using a stapler in the treatment of Parks II anal fistula.

Methods

From September 2017 to June 2019, 75 patients with Parks II anal fistulas in Beijing Erlonglu Hospital were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups. The 37 patients in the treatment group received VAAFT combined with internal-opening closure techniques, and the 38 patients in the control group were treated with anal fistulotomy with seton placement. The primary outcomes included the healing rate and recurrence, the fecal incontinence severity index (FISI) score, and the Wexner incontinence score during the 6-month postoperative follow-up.

Results

Thirty-two cases were healed in the treatment group (86.5%) and thirty-six cases were cured in the control group (94.7%). There was no notable difference in the healing rate between the two groups (P=0.487). Significant differences between the groups were observed in the Wexner incontinence and FISI scores at 1, 3, and 6 months after the operation (P=0.001). Furthermore, the wound healing time in the treatment group was significantly shorter than in the control group (P<0.05), while the numerical rating scale (NRS) for postoperative pain on the first day and 1 week after the operation were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.05).

Conclusions

VAAFT combined with closure of the internal opening using a stapler is effective and safe for Parks II anal fistula, and should be promoted as a promising treatment.

Loose combined cutting seton for patients with high intersphincteric fistula: a retrospective study

Background

Achieving a complete cure while maintaining continence constitutes a considerable challenge in the treatment of patients with high anal fistula. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of loose combined cutting seton (LCCS) for treating patients with high intersphincteric fistula.

Methods

Consecutive patients with high intersphincteric fistula who underwent LCCS were retrospectively enrolled. Patient data including demographics, medical history, comorbidities, details of the fistula, operative procedure, and prognosis were collected. Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), which ranged from 0 (no pain) to 10 (extremely severe pain). The severity of fecal incontinence was assessed using the Wexner Continence Grading Scale, with a total score ranging from 0 (no incontinence) to 20 (complete incontinence). The primary outcome was the healing rate of fistula. Secondary outcomes included the recurrence rate of fistula and the severity of fecal incontinence.

Results

The 22 patients (male: female =18:4) in our study had a median follow-up of 55 (range, 32–568) days. The healing rate was 100%, and none of the patients experienced fistula recurrence. At the follow-up visit, 19 patients (86.4%) reported no fecal incontinence. The median total Wexner score was 0. 95.5% patients had VAS score of 0 and only 1 patient (4.5%) had a VAS score of 1, which indicated a low level of postoperative pain.

Conclusions

LCCS achieved a high healing rate with an increased level of continence, as well as a low level of postoperative pain, in most patients with high anal fistula in our study. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this novel seton-based technique.

Can the risk of anal fistula development after perianal abscess drainage be reduced?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE Perianal abscesses are frequently seen in clinical practice, and perianal fistulas develop in 30%–50% of cases after treatment. This study investigated whether the type of dressing applied after abscess drainage is correlated with fistula development. Prevention of fistula formation would reduce both the loss of work and healthcare costs. METHODS The records of patients who underwent drainage of perianal abscesses between January 2015 and January 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with postoperative dressings changed with washing of the area in the hospital were included as Group 1. Patients with dressings changed at home and the area bathed in 10% povidone-iodine sitz bath were included as Group 2. The frequency and time of fistula formation, age, sex, cost, and workdays lost in the two groups were compared. RESULTS Between-group differences in age, sex, body mass index, and type of fistula that developed after months and 1 year of the abscess drainage were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). During follow-up, fistula development was significantly lower in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p < 0.001). The risk of perianal fistula development was significantly increased in those with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 (p = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS After perianal abscess drainage, in-hospital washing and dressing of the abscess area until abscess closure reduced the risk of perianal fistula, lost work time, and cost. The risk of perianal fistula development appeared to increase with BMI. A large, prospective study is needed for confirmation.

Formation rate of secondary anal fistula after incision and drainage of perianal Sepsis and analysis of risk factors

BACKGROUND

The choice of surgery for perianal sepsis is currently controversial. Some people advocate one-time radical surgery for perianal sepsis, while others advocate incision and drainage. The objective of this study is to observe the formation probability of secondary anal fistula after incision and drainage in patients with perianal sepsis and determine factors that contribute to secondary anal fistula after incision and drainage.

METHODS

A retrospective descriptive analysis was conducted in 288 patients with perianal sepsis who were treated with anorectal surgery in the Suzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2016 to June 2018. The patients were followed by telephone, physical examination, and pelvic MRI examination for at least 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

Three patients were not followed, 98 patients did not receive surgical treatment or one-time radical surgery for perianal sepsis, and 187 patients were ultimately identified for the study. Anal fistula was present in 105 patients, and the rate of formation of secondary anal fistula was 56.15%. There was no statistically significant difference in the fistula formation rate between different types of sepsis (P>0.05). And, in patients with secondary anal fistula, there was no significant correlation between the location of sepsis and the type of secondary anal fistula (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of secondary anal fistula after incision and drainage of perianal sepsis is 56.15%, which is lower than the incidence found in previous study. Young is a risk factor for secondary anal fistula after incision and drainage of perianal sepsis. There is no significant correlation between the location of sepsis and the type of secondary anal fistula. Simple incision and drainage is a suitable choice for patients with acute perianal sepsis.

Perianal sepsis in neutropaenic patients with haematological malignancies: the role of magnetic resonance imaging and surgery

BACKGROUND

Perianal sepsis occurs in up to 10% of neutropaenic patients with haematological malignancy and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The management of this condition is challenging in neutropaenic patients due to its atypical pathophysiology. The aim of this study is to assess the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and surgery in neutropaenic patients with perianal sepsis.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on all neutropenic patients with a haematological malignancy who had a diagnosis of perianal sepsis during the inpatient admission between 2008 and 2017. Patient characteristics, symptoms, haematological data, MRI result, surgical intervention, intraoperative findings and outcomes including recurrence and mortality were collected.

RESULTS

Nineteen neutropaenic patients with haematological malignancy were treated for perianal sepsis, eight (42%) patients were managed conservatively and 11 (58%) were managed surgically. Nine patients underwent MRI, which identified a collection in 88% of cases despite severe neutropaenia. In patients with a collection identified on MRI prior to surgery, 80% had a drainable collection confirmed intraoperatively. Post-operative complications included two cases of sepsis from a presumed perianal source and one death. A total of 82% of patients experienced symptom resolution after surgery compared to 88% of patients managed conservatively.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated that MRI is a useful diagnostic tool in evaluating perianal sepsis in patients with haematological malignancy, even during periods of severe neutropenia. We found that both conservative and surgical management strategies lead to resolution of symptoms.

Evaluation and management of perianal abscess and anal fistula: SICCR position statement

Perianal sepsis is a common condition ranging from acute abscess to chronic anal fistula. In most cases, the source is considered to be a non-specific cryptoglandular infection starting from the intersphincteric space. Surgery is the main treatment and several procedures have been developed, but the risks of recurrence and of impairment of continence still seem to be an unresolved issue. This statement reviews the pertinent literature and provides evidence-based recommendations to improve individualized management of patients.

Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Recurrence/Anal Fistula Formation Following Initial Operation for Anorectal Abscess

BACKGROUND The association between body mass index (BMI) and recurrence of anorectal abscess remains controversial. This study investigated the exact relationship between BMI and anorectal abscess recurrence or anal fistula formation following initial surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a retrospective registry-based study conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine. Patients treated for anorectal abscess from 01/2015 to 03/2016 were included. Clinical data and time to recurrence were recorded. The Cox regression model was used to estimate the association between BMI and recurrence. RESULTS A total of 790 patients were operated on during the study period. The average age of the participants was 38.3±11.6 years, and 83.2% were male. Median follow-up was 27 (range, 1-38) months. Compared with the low BMI (range, 15.7-22.8 kg/m²) patients, the high BMI (range, 26.0-40.6 kg/m²) patients showed higher risk of recurrence (HR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.15-2.67). In the non-adjusted model, high BMI was found to be positively correlated with recurrence (HR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.10-2.40, P=0.02), and a stronger association was found in the fully adjusted model (HR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.15-2.67, P=0.01). BMI was also used as a continuous variable for sensitivity analysis, and a similar trend was observed (P=0.01 for trend). CONCLUSIONS Elevated BMI is an independent risk factor of anorectal abscess recurrence and for increased risk of abscess recurrence or anal fistula formation.

Fistulotomy with or without marsupialisation of wound edges in treatment of simple anal fistula: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Promotion of healing of the anal wound after fistulotomy may help accelerate recovery and return to work. The present study aimed to assess the effect of marsupialisation of the edges of the laid open fistula track on wound healing after anal fistulotomy for simple anal fistula.

METHODS

This was a prospective randomised trial on patients with simple anal fistula. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups; group I underwent anal fistulotomy and group II underwent anal fistulotomy and marsupialisation of the edges of the laid open track. Outcomes of the study were time to achieve complete wound healing, operation time, postoperative pain and complications.

RESULTS

Sixty patients of mean age of 40.8 years with simple anal fistula were randomly divided into two equal groups. No significant differences between the two groups regarding operation time (16.8 vs 18.4 minutes; P = 0.054), postoperative pain score (1.6 vs 1.2; P = 0.22), and complication rates were recorded. Group II achieved complete healing in a significantly shorter duration than group I (5.1 vs 6.7 weeks; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Marsupialisation of the edges of the laid open fistula track after fistulotomy resulted in quicker wound healing with similar complication and recurrence rates to lay open fistulotomy alone.

[Quality indicators in the treatment of anal fistulas]

Anal fistulas are a common anorectal disease and are frequently associated with a perianal abscess. The etiology is based on a cryptoglandular infection in the intersphincteric space. Surgery remains the only definitive therapy. The primary goal of definitive fistula surgery is healing; however, success of fistula surgery is influenced by a variety of factors including the surgeon's experience, type of fistula, involvement of sphincter muscles, type of surgical procedure and patient-related factors. For the surgical treatment of a complex anal fistula, a variety of operative procedures have been described including fistulectomy with sphincterotomy, different flap procedures (e.g. mucosal flap and advancement flap) and finally so-called sphincter-preserving techniques, such as LIFT (ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract), VAAFT (video-assisted anal fistula treatment), the use of plugs of collagen or fibrin glue sealants as well as laser procedures or the clip. In the search for suitable quality indicators in anal fistula surgery there is a conflict between healing and preservation of continence. If potential quality indicators are identified the principles of anal fistula surgery must be adhered to and the appropriate selection of patients and procedures is of crucial importance to achieve high healing rates without compromising continence or inducing surgical revision due to abscesses or recurrence. Based on the available literature and guidelines, in the assessment of quality indicators considerable differences exist with respect to patient selection, etiology of anal fistulas and length of follow-up. Heterogeneity of treatment protocols lead to difficulties in a definitive assessment of which surgical treatment is the best option for complex anal fistulas.

Antibiotic use in prevention of anal fistulas following incision and drainage of anorectal abscesses: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Treatment of anorectal abscesses continues to revolve around early surgical drainage and control of perianal sepsis. Yet even with prompt drainage, abscess recurrence and postoperative fistula formation rates are as high as 40% within 12 months. These complications are thought to be associated with inadequate drainage, elevated bacterial load, or a noncryptoglandular etiology of disease. Postoperative antibiotics have been used to account for these limitations, but their use is controversial and only weakly supported by current guidelines due to low-quality evidences. The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the current literature to determine the role of antibiotics in prevention of anal fistula following incision and drainage of anorectal abscesses.

METHODS

Literature search was conducted using Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from 1946 to April 2018. Search terms were "perianal OR anal OR fistula-in-ano OR ischiorectal OR anorectal AND abscess AND antibiotics" and was limited to human studies in the English language. Literature review and data extraction were completed using PRISMA guidelines. A total of six studies with 817 patients were included for systematic review. The weighted mean age was 37.8 years, 20.4% of patients were female, and the follow up ranged from one to 30 months. Antibiotic courses varied by study, and duration ranged from five to 10 days. Of included patients, 358 (43.8%) underwent management without antibiotics while 459 (56.2%) patients were treated with antibiotics. Fistula rate in subjects receiving antibiotics was 16% versus 24% in those not receiving postoperative antibiotics. Meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant protective effect for antibiotic treatment (3 studies, OR 0.64; CI 0.43-0.96; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Antibiotic therapy following incision and drainage of anorectal abscesses is associated with a 36% lower odds of fistula formation. An empiric 5-10-day course of antibiotics following operative drainage may avoid the morbidity of fistula formation in otherwise healthy patients, although quality of evidence is low. Further randomized trials are needed to fully clarify the role, duration, and type of antibiotics best suited for postoperative prevention of fistula following drainage of anorectal abscesses.

68Ga-PSMA Uptake in Anal Fistula on PET/CT Scan

Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT scan for primary staging discovered increased Ga-PSMA uptake in a known anal fistula in a recently diagnosed high-risk prostate cancer patient. The patient had an ongoing history of surgical revisions of complex fistulas in the perianal region, contributing to active inflammation and infection. Recently, reports have demonstrated increased Ga-PSMA uptake in different benign inflammatory conditions. This case demonstrates another case of a benign condition associated with increased Ga-PSMA uptake.

INTERESFINCTERIAL LIGATION OF FISTULA TRACT (LIFT) FOR PATIENTS WITH ANAL FISTULAS: A BRAZILIAN BI-INSTITUTIONAL EXPERIENCE

Background:

The best treatment for anal fistula should extirpate infection and promote healing of the tract, whilst preserving the anal sphincter complex and full continence.

Aim:

To analyze the success rate after a modified technique for ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) for patients with anal fistulas.

Methods:

A prospective (observational cohort study) Brazilian bi-institutional experience with a modified (ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract without excision) LIFT technique was undertaken. A clinical database was settled for the following variables: age, gender, BMI, comorbidities, distance between external orifice and the anus, previous fistula surgery, type of fistula, operative time, intra- and postoperative complications, duration of follow-up, and success rate.

Results:

Between November 2015 and January 2017, 38 patients with transsphincteric fistulas were operated on using the modified LIFT procedure. Seventeen (44.7%) were men. Median age was 41 (18-67) years. Median BMI was 26.4 (22-38) kg/m². Five (13.2%) had undergone previous surgery. The fistula was transsphincteric in all cases. Median follow-up was 32 (range, 14-56) weeks. Success was observed in 30 (79%) patients.

Conclusions:

The LIFT technique without excision of the fistula tract proved to be safe and effective for transsphincteric anal fistulas.

Draining Setons as Definitive Management of Fistula-in-Ano

BACKGROUND

The ideal management for fistula-in-ano would resolve the disease while preserving anal continence.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of draining seton alone in achieving resolution or significant amelioration of symptoms for patients with fistula-in-ano.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective case series involving chart review and telephone interviews. A single colorectal surgeon performed surgeries between June 1, 2005, and June 30, 2014.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted by a single surgeon in a large urban city.

PATIENTS

Patient ≥18 years of age presenting with fistula-in-ano of cryptoglandular origin were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Resolution of symptoms or significant symptom improvement requiring no additional surgical management and rate of recurrence were measured.

RESULTS

A total of 76 patients (53 men) met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 45 years (range, 19-73 y). The average time to seton removal was 36.6 weeks (range, 6.0-188.0 wk). Mean follow-up was 63 months (range, 7-121 mo). Fifty-seven patients (75%) were reached for telephone interview. Fifty-six patients (73.7%) had complete symptom resolution, and 14 (18.4%) had significant amelioration of symptoms with no additional surgical management required. Six (7.9%) had persistent severe symptoms. Five (7.1%) had a recurrence after seton removal. Rates of symptom resolution and recurrence were similar between patients whose setons were removed before or after 26 weeks (median time of seton removal) from the time of placement. Twenty-one patients (27.6%) required 1 or more additional operative procedures before planned seton removal to unroof a collection and/or replace the seton, and this represented the most significant risk factor for failure of resolution or improvement or recurrence (relative risk = 7.0).

LIMITATIONS

This study was retrospective and represents a single surgeon experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Placement of draining seton alone is a viable treatment option for definitive symptomatic management of fistula-in-ano. Because draining setons are sphincter and function preserving, their use should be considered as primary management for fistula-in-ano. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A552.

Micro-fragmented adipose tissue injection for the treatment of complex anal fistula: a pilot study accessing safety and feasibility

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of autologous, micro-fragmented and minimally manipulated adipose tissue injection associated closure of the internal opening in promoting healing of complex anal fistula.

METHODS

A pilot study was conducted on patients referred to our center with anal fistula, from April 2015-December 2016. Inclusion criteria were age over 16 years old and a diagnosis of complex anal fistula according to the American Gastroenterological Association classification The patients were divided into 2 groups; the "first time group" (Group I) in which micro-fragmented adipose tissue injection with closure of the internal opening was the first sphincter-saving procedure, and the "recurrent group" (Group II) consisting of patients who had failed prior sphincter-saving procedures. The procedure was carried out 4-6 weeks after seton placement. Follow-up visits were scheduled at 7 days, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Fistula healing was defined as the closure of the internal and external openings without any discharge.

RESULTS

Out of 47 patients with complex transsphincteric anal fistula, 19 met the inclusion criteria and were selected to undergo the procedure. Twelve of these patients (Group I) had micro-fragmented adipose tissue injection as first-line treatment, and 7 (Group II) had failed previous sphincter-saving procedures. The mean operative time was 55 ± 6 min (range 50-70 min). The mean postoperative pain score measured with the visual analog pain scale was 2 ± 1.4 (range 0-4). No intraoperative difficulties related to the use of the kit were recorded. There were no cases of postoperative fever or abdominal sepsis related to the procedure and no post-treatment perianal bleeding or impaired anal continence. Only 3 cases of minor abdominal wall hematoma that did not require any treatment and 1 case of perianal abscess were observed. Patients were evaluated for a mean follow-up time of 9 ± 3.1 months (range 3-12 months). The overall healing rate was 73.7, 83.3% for Group I and 57.1% for Group II.

CONCLUSIONS

The injection of autologous, micro-fragmented and minimally manipulated adipose tissue associated with closure of the internal opening is a safe, feasible and reproducible procedure and may enhance complex anal fistula healing.

Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment (VAAFT) in Cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano: A systematic review and proportional meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment (VAAFT) is a relatively new minimally invasive videoendoscopic procedure for treating fistula-in-ano. We reviewed and performed metaanalysis to evaluate the efficacy of this procedure.

METHODS

Studies from the period 2010 to 2016 were searched in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Embase, Ovid, SCI database, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) & Google Scholar database. All studies which utilized VAAFT to treat fistula-in-ano were extracted. The studies in which the Cryptoglandular fistula were treated were included. Procedure's done in patients with Crohn's disease, pediatric patients and associated malignancy were excluded from the study. The primary outcome parameter was success rate in fistula healing and the secondary outcome parameters were operating time, hospital stay, return to work, incontinence rate and complication rate.

RESULTS

A total of 1378 studies were screened. Out of these, eight studies were finally included for meta-analysis. The analysis (n = 786) demonstrated a net Proportion Meta-analysis pooled rate of 76.01% (95% CI = 68.1 to 83.9) for success rate, 16.2% (95% CI = 12.1 to 20.2) for complications, 44.7 min (95% CI = 38.3 to 51.2) for operating time, 1-4.1 days for mean hospital stay and 1-11 days for return to work. None of the studies reported worsening of continence levels.

CONCLUSIONS

VAAFT is a safe videoendoscopic method to treat fistula-in-ano with an overall success rate of 76% (net Proportion Meta-analysis pooled rate). The main benefit of the procedure is minimal risk to incontinence, minimal hospital stay and early return to work.

Typical MR imaging findings of perianal infections in patients with hematologic malignancies

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the MR imaging findings of patients with hematologic malignancies who have symptoms suggesting perianal infection and to demonstrate the importance of imaging.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The study included 36 patients with hematologic malignancies who underwent anorectal MR imaging in our department between September 2011-May 2016. Two radiologists experienced in abdominal radiology viewed the MR images in consensus. Abscesses, fistulous or sinus tracts, signal alterations and contrast enhancement in keeping with an inflammation and edema in the perianal region were recorded.

RESULTS

Perianal abscess was found in 16 of the 36 patients. In 10 of these 16 patients there was also extensive inflammatory signal alterations in perianal and/or perineal soft tissues. In six of the 36 patients perianal fistula was detected. A sinus tract was seen at the level of subcutaneous external anal sphincter in one patient. Inflammatory signal alterations in the surrounding soft tissues were present in three of these seven patients. There were abscesses in labium majus in two patients and in one patient there were perineal abscesses with accompanying inflammatory signal alterations. In six of the 36 patients no abscess or fistula/sinus tract was seen. There were only inflammatory signal alterations with contrast enhancement in perianal or subcutaneous tissues. In two patients presenting with perianal pain and hemorrhoids, minimal inflammatory changes were detected on MR images. There were two patients with normal MR imaging findings.

CONCLUSION

As digital examination of the anorectum and rectoscopy are avoided in neutropenic patients, MR imaging, which clearly demonstrates the perianal pathology should be preferential.

Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment: Pros and Cons of This Minimally Invasive Method for Treatment of Perianal Fistulas

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present results of a single-center, nonrandomized, prospective study of the video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT).

Methods

68 consecutive patients with perianal fistulas were operated on using the VAAFT technique. 30 of the patients had simple fistulas, and 38 had complex fistulas. The mean follow-up time was 31 months.

Results

The overall healing rate was 54.41% (37 of the 68 patients healed with no recurrence during the follow-up period). The results varied depending on the type of fistula. The success rate for the group with simple fistulas was 73.3%, whereas it was only 39.47% for the group with complex fistulas. Female patients achieved higher healing rates for both simple (81.82% versus 68.42%) and complex fistulas (77.78% versus 27.59%). There were no major complications.

Conclusions

The results of VAAFT vary greatly depending on the type of fistula. The procedure has some drawbacks due to the rigid construction of the fistuloscope and the diameter of the shaft. The electrocautery of the fistula tract from the inside can be insufficient to close wide tracts. However, low risk of complications permits repetition of the treatment until success is achieved. Careful selection of patients is advised.

Clinical effects of comfort nursing in perianal abscess patients with postoperative pain

AIM

To evaluate the clinical effects of comfort nursing in patients with perianal abscess.

METHODS

Ninety perianal abscess patients with postoperative pain treated at our hospital were selected and divided into either a control group to receive routine nursing care alone or a study group to receive routine nursing care plus comfort nursing, with 45 cases in each group. Pain, anxiety and sleep quality of the two groups were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The numeric pain rating scale scores at different time points in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (t = 9.67, 13.53, 15.83, and 10.46, P < 0.05). The self-rating anxiety scale score were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (t = 2.31, -18.04, P < 0.05); and the Pittsburgh sleep quality index were also significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (t = 9.47, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The application of comfort nursing is helpful to reduce postoperative pain, relieve anxiety, and improve sleep quality in patients with perianal abscess.

German S3 guidelines: anal abscess and fistula (second revised version)

BACKGROUND

The incidence of anal abscess and fistula is relatively high, and the condition is most common in young men.

METHODS

This is a revised version of the German S3 guidelines first published in 2011. It is based on a systematic review of pertinent literature.

RESULTS

Cryptoglandular abscesses and fistulas usually originate in the proctodeal glands of the intersphincteric space. Classification depends on their relation to the anal sphincter. Patient history and clinical examination are diagnostically sufficient in order to establish the indication for surgery. Further examinations (endosonography, MRI) should be considered in complex abscesses or fistulas. The goal of surgery for an abscess is thorough drainage of the focus of infection while preserving the sphincter muscles. The risk of abscess recurrence or secondary fistula formation is low overall. However, they may result from insufficient drainage. Primary fistulotomy should only be performed in case of superficial fistulas. Moreover, it should be done by experienced surgeons. In case of unclear findings or high fistulas, repair should take place in a second procedure. Anal fistulas can be treated only by surgical intervention with one of the following operations: laying open, seton drainage, plastic surgical reconstruction with suturing of the sphincter (flap, sphincter repair, LIFT), and occlusion with biomaterials. Only superficial fistulas should be laid open. The risk of postoperative incontinence is directly related to the thickness of the sphincter muscle that is divided. All high anal fistulas should be treated with a sphincter-saving procedure. The various plastic surgical reconstructive procedures all yield roughly the same results. Occlusion with biomaterial results in lower cure rate.

CONCLUSION

In this revision of the German S3 guidelines, instructions for diagnosis and treatment of anal abscess and fistula are described based on a review of current literature.

Preliminary results of video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) in children

BACKGROUND

Anal fistula is a common acquired anorectal disorder in children. Treatment methods that have been used are associated with inconsistent results and possible serious complications. In 2011 a minimally invasive approach, video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) was described for adult patients. The aim of the present study was to assess the first series of pediatric patients treated with VAAFT.

METHODS

All patients who underwent VAAFT between August 2013 and May 2015 were included. Demographics, clinical features, preoperative imaging, surgical details, outcome, and medium-term data were prospectively collected for each patient.

RESULTS

Thirteen procedures were performed in nine patients. The male to female ratio was 8:1, and the median age was 9.6 years. Five fistulas were idiopathic, three iatrogenic, and one associated with Crohn's disease. Eight complete VAAFT procedures were performed. The remaining five procedures were either fistuloscopy and cutting seton placement or fistuloscopy and electrocoagulation, both without mucosal sleeve. The median length of surgery was 41 min. The median hospital stay was 24 h, and the median length of follow-up was 10 months. Resolution of the fistula was observed in all patients who underwent a complete VAAFT. In four out of five patients who underwent an incomplete procedure (without mucosal sleeve), the fistula recurred. No incontinence or soiling was reported in the medium term.

CONCLUSIONS

VAAFT proved to be feasible and safe in children. It also proved to be versatile as it could be applied to fistulas of different etiologies. The key to success seems to be an adequate mucosal sleeve. Older children and adolescents benefit most from VAAFT which is a valid alternative to available surgical procedures.