Long-term outcome of endorectal advancement flap for complex anorectal fistulae

The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term outcome of endorectal advancement flap (ERF) for complex anorectal fistulae. A total of 38 ERF were performed in 36 patients (2003-2007). Mean age was 45 years. The most common fistula type was transsphincteric. Eighty-one per cent of patients had prior surgical interventions. Primary closure rate was 83 per cent. Of the six initial failures, four were noted in patients operated for recurrent rectovaginal fistula. Postoperative complications occurred in seven patients (19%). During a mean follow-up of 27 months, recurrent disease was noted in five patients (14%). All recurrences were noted in patients with left sided fistulae. At last follow-up, all patients had healed their fistula except for two. We conclude that ERF closed most complex anorectal fistulae with an acceptable complication rate and low recurrence rate. Recurrent rectovaginal fistula was associated with a lower closure rate.