Garg P, Kaur B, Yagnik VD, Dawka S. Including video and novel parameter-height of penetration of external anal sphincter-in magnetic resonance imaging reporting of anal fistula.
World J Gastrointest Surg 2022;
14:271-275. [PMID:
35664366 PMCID:
PMC9131832 DOI:
10.4240/wjgs.v14.i4.271]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The main purpose of a radiologist’s expertise in evaluation of anal fistula magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is to benefit patients by decreasing the incontinence rate and increasing the healing rate. Any loss of vital information during the transfer of this data from the radiologist to the operating surgeon is unwarranted and is best prevented. In this regard, two methods are suggested. First, a short video to be attached with the standardized written report highlighting the vital parameters of the fistula. This would ensure minimum loss of information when it is conveyed from the radiologist to the operating surgeon. Second, inclusion of a new parameter, the amount of external sphincter involvement by the anal fistula. This parameter is usually not included in the MRI report. This can be evaluated as the height of penetration of the external anal sphincter (HOPE) by the fistula. The external anal sphincter plays a pivotal role in maintaining continence. This parameter (HOPE) is distinct from the ‘height of internal opening’ and assumes immense importance as its knowledge is paramount to prevent damage to the external anal sphincter by the surgeon during surgery.
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