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Updated: Jul 27, 2025

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
Precise and comprehensive evaluation of perianal fistulas, classification and related complications using magnetic
Wei-Wei Zhao1, Jing Yu2, Jun Shu2
1Department of Radiology, Xi'an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
Objective:
This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate perianal fistulas and their related complications using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Methods:
We enrolled 115 eligible patients who underwent preoperative perianal MRI. Primary fistulas, internal and external openings, and related complications were evaluated using MRI. All fistulas were classified according to Park's classification, Standard Practice Task Force classification, St. James's grade, and the position of the internal opening.
Results:
In total, 169 primary fistulas were detected in 115 patients; 73 (63.5%) patients had a single primary tract and 42 (36.5%) patients had multiple primary tracts, and 198 internal and 129 external openings were identified. Based on Park's classification, 150 (88.7%) primary fistulas were classified into the following types: intersphincteric (82, 54.7%), trans-sphincteric (58, 38.6%), suprasphincteric (8, 5.3%), extrasphincteric (1, 0.7%), and diffuse intersphincteric with trans-sphincteric (1, 0.7%) types. Based on St. James's grade, 149 fistulas were classified into grade 1 (52, 34.9%), grade 2 (30, 20.1%), grade 3 (20, 13.4%), grade 4 (38, 25.5%), and grade 5 (9, 6.1%). We detected 92 (54.4%) simple and 77 (45.6%) complex perianal fistulas and 72 (42.6%) high and 97 (57.4%) low perianal fistulas. Furthermore, we detected 32 secondary tracts in 23 (20.0%) patients and 87 abscesses in 60 (52.2%) patients. Levator ani muscle involvement and extensive soft tissue edema were detected in 12 (10.4%) and 24 (20.9%) patients, respectively.
Conclusion:
MRI is a valuable and comprehensive tool that can not only be used to determine the general condition of perianal fistulas but also to classify them and identify related complications.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) comprehensively evaluates perianal fistulas and their complications. This study demonstrates MRI
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Anatomy
Background:
- Perianal fistulas are complex conditions requiring accurate imaging for effective management.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a key modality for visualizing anorectal anatomy and pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the utility of preoperative perianal MRI in comprehensively evaluating perianal fistulas and associated complications.
- To classify fistulas using established grading systems and identify anatomical details relevant to surgical planning.
Main Methods:
- 115 patients with perianal fistulas underwent preoperative MRI.
- Fistulas, openings, tracts, and complications were evaluated and classified using Park's, Standard Practice Task Force, and St. James's grading systems.
- Internal opening position and involvement of adjacent structures like the levator ani muscle were assessed.
Main Results:
- 169 primary fistulas and 198 internal openings were identified in 115 patients.
- Fistulas were classified by Park's (intersphincteric, trans-sphincteric, etc.) and St. James's grade.
- Complex features included secondary tracts (20%), abscesses (52.2%), levator ani muscle involvement (10.4%), and soft tissue edema (20.9%).
Conclusions:
- Preoperative perianal MRI is a valuable tool for detailed assessment of perianal fistulas.
- MRI enables precise classification and identification of complications, aiding surgical decision-making.
- The comprehensive evaluation provided by MRI improves understanding of fistula complexity and extent.
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