[Mucosal flap in the treatment of anal fistula]

A technique of sliding flap repair for the treatment of anal fistulae is described. This technique may prevent sphincter damage. Fifty-five consecutive fistulae have been treated: 23 transsphincteric, 26 intersphincteric, 3 suprasphincteric and 3 rectovaginal fistulae. The fistulous tract is excised and cored out. The intersphincteric space is opened: any gland or inflammatory tissue is removed. The internal opening is excised. The gaps in the internal, as well as in the external, sphincter are closed. The endo-anal wound is closed, using a sliding flap of anorectal mucosa. The ischiorectal wound is left open. Healing has been achieved in every case but one within three weeks, without sphincteric functional defect. Only 3 recurrences have been observed in a mean follow-up of 24 months.