[Advances and considerations for surgical treatment of horseshoe anal fistulas]

Horseshoe anal fistula is one of the most challenging subtypes of complex anal fistulas, closely related to the failure of anal fistula surgery and postoperative recurrence. Accurate preoperative assessment, correct classification, and appropriate surgical plans are crucial for improving treatment efficacy. This article primarily explores the clinical classification of horseshoe anal fistulas and the applicability of mainstream surgical techniques in different types of horseshoe anal fistulas, focusing on their cure rates, recurrence rates, and fecal continence, to assist surgeons to make reasonable surgical plans when treating horseshoe anal fistulas.