[Evaluation of surgical treatment of anal fistula]

Second reason for consultations in proctology in our department after hemorroïds-linked illnesses, fistulas in ano constitute a chronic disease which causes therapeutic difficulties linked mainly to the futur functionning of the sphincter, especially in its most complex types. In our group of 43 patients in whom surgical exploration with stylet was the key of the diagnosis, the anorectoscopy and even less chirurgical examination were not often contributive, the fear of post-operative incontinence forced us to prefer ligation-section with rubber every time that the sphincter was involved. With our results, the majority of patients (41/43) healed in normal periods with a sufficient functionning of the anus. This result confirmed our attitude towards the sphincter: that is to save if possible.