[Personal experience in the treatment of perianal fistulas]

The authors describe the therapeutic results assembled with perianal fistulae in 130 patients. The best and most reliable method for treatment of the above mentioned lesions is discision or excision of the fistula followed by the so-called "open method" of healing. Since 1988 by this method 74 patients were treated where only two relapses were recorded. Postoperative treatment is simple, dietetic provisions are not necessary. Regular digital control of the wound hastens granulation. After rapid epithelization the wound heals by an almost linear scar. As in particular intersphincteric and low transphincteric fistulae calt for careful sphincterotomy of an appropriate extent it is essential that these operations should be performed by a surgeon adequately experienced in proctosurgery.