Anorectal Crohn's disease: definitive surgery for fistulas and recurrent abscesses

Twenty patients with anorectal Crohn's disease manifested by anal fistulas or recurrent perirectal abscesses underwent attempted definitive surgical eradication of that pathologic process. The role of Parks' partial internal anal sphincterectomy is discussed. The results are presented and correlated with the activity of the underlying Crohn's disease. The excellent results recommend this approach for recurrent perirectal abscess and intersphincteric abscess, even when occurring for the first time.