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Continence disorders after anal fistulotomy
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Diseases of the Colon and Rectum
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Anal fistulotomy can lead to continence disorders. Factors like fistula extensions and anal opening location/level predict these post-surgical complications.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal surgery
- Surgical outcomes
- Patient continence
Background:
- Anal fistulotomy is a common surgical procedure.
- Continence disorders can negatively impact quality of life post-surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predictive factors for continence disorders following anal fistulotomy.
- To understand the risks associated with specific fistula characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 312 patients.
- A 90% response rate questionnaire was administered to assess outcomes.
Main Results:
- Minor continence disorders were reported in 73 patients; no complete incontinence occurred.
- Multivariate analysis identified fistula extensions (P=0.008), anal opening location (P=0.03), and level (P=0.029) as independent predictors.
Conclusions:
- High or posterior anal openings are associated with increased risk of continence issues.
- Fistula extensions are a significant risk factor for post-fistulotomy continence disorders.