Annals of Coloproctology

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Original Articles

Anorectal benign disease

Validation of a novel imaging-guided and anatomy-based classification system for anorectal fistulas: a retrospective clinical evaluation study: Antonio Brillantino, Francesca Iacobellis, Luigi Marano, Adolfo Renzi, Pasquale Talento, Luigi Brusciano, Claudio Gambardella, Umberto Favetta, Michele Schiano Di Visconte, Luigi Monaco, Maurizio Grillo, Mauro Natale Maglio, Fabrizio Foroni, Alessio Palumbo, Maria Laura Sandoval Sotelo, Luciano Vicenzo, Elisa Palladino, Giovanna Frezza, Maria Paola Menna, Paolino Mauro, Stefano Picardi, Mario Massimo Mensorio, Vinicio Mosca, Vincenzo Bottino, Giovanna Ioia, Corrado Rispoli, Marco Di Serafino, Martina Caruso, Roberto Ronza, Barbara Frittoli, Daria Schettini, Luca Stoppino, Franco Iafrate, Giulio Lombardi, Carmine Antropoli, Salvatore Cappabianca, Ludovico Docimo, Roberto Grassi, Alfonso Reginelli; Ann Coloproctol. 2025;41(3):207-220. Published online June 16, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2024.00675.0096

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study was conducted to evaluate the validity of a new imaging-guided, anatomy-based classification of anorectal fistulas in defining disease severity and predicting surgical outcomes.
Methods
This multicenter, retrospective cohort study analyzed data from patients with perianal fistulas who underwent surgery between 2017 and 2023. All patients underwent preoperative 3-dimensional endoanal ultrasound, with adjunctive magnetic resonance imaging performed if ultrasound indicated a complex fistula. Imaging examinations were retrospectively evaluated to categorize fistulas according to the Garg classification and the newly proposed classification system. The new classification included 6 severity grades based on the characteristics of the primary tract: submucosal, intersphincteric, low transsphincteric, high transsphincteric, multiple, and suprasphincteric/extrasphincteric. Each grade was further subdivided into 3 subtypes (A, B, C) based on the extension of secondary tracts.
Results
When compared with the new classification, the Garg classification demonstrated a slightly lower ability to predict the feasibility of fistulotomy in simple fistulas (94.2% vs 99.1%; Fisher exact test, P=0.006). A strong positive correlation was found between the surgery failure rate and the severity grade of the new classification (Spearman rho, 0.90; P<0.001), whereas the Garg classification showed a nonsignificant positive correlation with surgical failure rate (Spearman rho, 0.90; P=0.08).
Conclusion
The new imaging-guided, anatomy-based classification of anorectal fistulas demonstrates high accuracy in defining disease severity. It represents a valuable tool for preoperative grading of anal fistulas, standardizing the reporting of diagnostic imaging, and improving the communication of findings among healthcare professionals.

Translational/basic research

Preclinical testing of a new radiofrequency ablation device in a porcine perianal fistula model: Sunseok Yoon, Jung-Woo Choi, Yongtaik Son, Hyun Soon Lee, Kwang Dae Hong; Ann Coloproctol. 2025;41(1):84-92. Published online February 26, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2024.00626.0089

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
Anorectal fistulas present a treatment challenge, with conventional surgical methods potentially resulting in complications such as fecal incontinence. To improve patient outcomes, more effective and minimally invasive therapies are critically needed. In this study, an optimal porcine model for the creation of anorectal fistulas was developed and used to evaluate the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy.
Methods
Two distinct but related experiments were conducted. In the first experiment, a reliable and standardized porcine anorectal fistula model was developed. In the second, the healing process was assessed, and outcomes were compared between the RFA-treated group and the control group using the established porcine model.
Results
The results indicated that a 3.5-cm fistula tract length and a 14-day evaluation period following seton removal are optimal for the porcine anorectal fistula model. In the second experiment, the RFA group tended to exhibit better outcomes regarding fistula closure, although the differences were not statistically significant. Histopathologically, no significant difference in inflammation grade was observed between groups; however, scar tissue was more predominant in the RFA group.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that RFA therapy may offer potential benefits in the treatment of anorectal fistulas, as demonstrated using a porcine model. To validate these results and explore the mechanisms of action underlying RFA therapy for anorectal fistulas, further research involving larger sample sizes and a more robust study design is required.

Anorectal benign disease

Antibiotic use during the first episode of acute perianal sepsis: a still-open question: Stanislas Blondin, David Lobo, Axel Egal, Saliha Ysmail-Dahlouk, Milad Taouk, Josée Bourguignon, David Blondeel, Isabelle Etienney; Ann Coloproctol. 2025;41(1):40-46. Published online February 3, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2024.00472.0067

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
The role of antibiotics in preventing fistula formation following an initial abscess remains a subject of debate. This study compared the incidence of fistula in ano in patients experiencing their first episode of acute perianal sepsis, with and without antibiotic therapy, and evaluated the prevalence of fistula in ano necessitating surgical intervention at 1 year.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital with a dedicated proctology department. All patients who presented to the emergency proctology unit with a first episode of acute perianal sepsis were eligible for inclusion.
Results
This study included 276 patients. At 1 year, fistula formation was identified in 65.6% of all patients, 54.0% of those who had received antibiotics, and 75.0% of those who had not (P<0.001). This finding remained significant after weighted propensity analysis (odds ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.31–0.92; P=0.025).
Conclusion
The rate of fistula formation was relatively high in this study. However, it was lower among patients with perianal sepsis who were treated with antibiotics, although a causal relationship could not be established. Prolonged follow-up is needed to clarify the role of antibiotic therapy in preventing or delaying fistula development in patients with acute perianal sepsis.

Anorectal benign disease

Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) for high transsphincteric fistulas: a double-center retrospective study with long-term follow-up: Leichang Zhang, Chuanyu Zhan, Lu Li, Wanjin Shao, Guidong Sun, Yugen Chen, Guanghua Chen, Yulei Lang, Zenghua Xiao, Xiao Xiao; Ann Coloproctol. 2025;41(1):77-83. Published online January 17, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2024.00024.0003

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) procedure in treating high transsphincteric fistulas.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the success rate of LIFT treatment in 82 patients with high transsphincteric fistulas involving at least one-third of the external sphincter. This study was carried out across 2 centers from November 2009 to February 2023.
Results
All patients underwent successful surgery with a median operative time of 48.9 minutes (range, 20–80 minutes), and no intraoperative or postoperative complications were reported. The median follow-up duration was 85.5 months (range, 4–120 months), with 5 patients (6.1%) lost to follow-up. Treatment was successful in 62 patients, whose symptoms disappeared and both the external opening and the intersphincteric incision completely healed, yielding an overall efficiency rate of 80.5%. There were 15 cases (19.5%) of treatment failure, including 6 (7.8%) that converted to intersphincteric anal fistula and 9 (11.7%) that experienced persistent or recurrent fistulas. Only 1 patient reported minor overflow during the postoperative follow-up, but no other patients reported any significant discomfort. There were no statistically significant differences between patients with surgical success and those with treatment failure in terms of fistula length, history of previous abscess or anal fistula surgery, number of external orifices or fistulas, and location of fistulas (all P>0.05).
Conclusion
LIFT is a safe and effective sphincter-preserving procedure that yields satisfactory healing outcomes and has minimal impact on anal function.

Technical Note

Anorectal benign disease

Botulinum injection technique to reduce spasms in refractory anal fissures and after anal fistula or hemorrhoid surgery: Pankaj Garg, Vipul D. Yagnik, Kaushik Bhattacharya; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(6):610-612. Published online December 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2023.00696.0099

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PDF Supplementary Material

Review

Anorectal benign disease

Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of complex anal fistula: Pankaj Garg, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Vipul D. Yagnik, G. Mahak; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(4):321-335. Published online August 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2024.00325.0046

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7 Web of Science
10 Citations

Abstract PDF

Anal fistula can be a challenging condition to manage, with complex fistulas presenting even greater difficulties. The primary concerns in treating this condition are a risk of damage to the anal sphincters, which can compromise fecal continence, and refractoriness to treatment, as evidenced by a high recurrence rate. Furthermore, the treatment of complex anal fistula involves several additional challenges. Satisfactory solutions to many of these obstacles remain elusive, and no consensus has been established regarding the available treatment options. In summary, complex anal fistula has no established gold-standard treatment, and the quest for effective therapies continues. This review discusses and highlights groundbreaking advances in the management of complex anal fistula over the past decade.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Understanding the anatomical basis of anorectal fistulas and their surgical management: exploring different types for enhanced precision and safety
Asim M. Almughamsi, Yasir Hassan Elhassan
Surgery Today.2025; 55(4): 457. CrossRef
Mucosal advancement flap versus ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract for management of trans-sphincteric perianal fistulas in the elderly: a retrospective study
Tamer A. A. M. Habeeb, Massimo Chiaretti, Igor A. Kryvoruchko, Antonio Pesce, Aristotelis Kechagias, Abd Al-Kareem Elias, Abdelmonem A. M. Adam, Mohamed A. Gadallah, Saad Mohamed Ali Ahmed, Ahmed Khyrallh, Mohammed H. Alsayed, Esmail Tharwat Kamel Awad, M
International Journal of Colorectal Disease.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Evaluating the predictive superiority of Garg's classification for surgical decision-making in perianal fistula management
Naresh Lodhi, Dileep Thakur, Amrendra Verma, Uday Somashekar, Deepti Bala Sharma, Dhananjaya Sharma
Tropical Doctor.2025; 55(2): 124. CrossRef
Tuberculosis in anal fistula: incidence, clinical insights, and diagnostic challenges
Tariq Akhtar Khan, Mohammad Ali, Krishna Pada Saha, M. Nashir Uddin, M. Lutful Kabir Khan, Nunjirul Muhsenin, Nazmun Nahar, Sawantee Joarder, M. Kuddus Ali Khan
International Surgery Journal.2025; 12(5): 717. CrossRef
Validation of a novel imaging-guided and anatomy-based classification system for anorectal fistulas: a retrospective clinical evaluation study
Antonio Brillantino, Francesca Iacobellis, Luigi Marano, Adolfo Renzi, Pasquale Talento, Luigi Brusciano, Claudio Gambardella, Umberto Favetta, Michele Schiano Di Visconte, Luigi Monaco, Maurizio Grillo, Mauro Natale Maglio, Fabrizio Foroni, Alessio Palum
Annals of Coloproctology.2025; 41(3): 207. CrossRef
Application of micro-dynamic negative pressure wound therapy in treating cavity wounds after complex anal fistula surgery
Ruyun Cai, Zhonghua Hong
Asian Journal of Surgery.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Hotspots and trends of perianal fistula of Crohn’s disease: A bibliometric analysis
Lei Liang, Lan Li, Dexin Wang, Xiubi Zhang, Xiaohe Zhang, Gang Tian, Chaochi Yue, Weiliang Du
Medicine.2025; 104(32): e43854. CrossRef
From the Editor: Uniting expertise, a new era of global collaboration in coloproctology
In Ja Park
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(4): 285. CrossRef
Surgeon oriented reporting template for magnetic resonance imaging and endoanal ultrasound of anal fistulas enhances surgical decision-making
Si-Ze Wu
World Journal of Radiology.2024; 16(12): 712. CrossRef
Abbreviations Anonymous: A Coloproctologist’s Guide to Sanity
Kaushik Bhattacharya
Indian Journal of Colo-Rectal Surgery.2024; 7(1): 1. CrossRef

Original Article

Anorectal benign disease

Immediate sphincter repair following fistulotomy for anal fistula: does it impact the healing rate and septic complications?: Maher A. Abbas, Anna T. Tsay, Mohammad Abbass; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(3):217-224. Published online June 28, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2022.01144.0163

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4 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
Fistulotomy is considered the most effective treatment for anal fistula; however, it carries a risk of incontinence. Sphincteroplasty in the setting of fistulotomy is not standard practice due to concerns regarding healing and potential infectious complications. We aimed to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent fistulotomy with primary sphincteroplasty to those who did not undergo repair.
Methods
This was a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent fistulotomy for cryptoglandular anal fistula. All operations were performed by one colorectal surgeon. Sphincteroplasty was performed for patients perceived to be at higher risk for continence disturbance. The main outcome measures were the healing rate and postoperative septic complications.
Results
In total, 152 patients were analyzed. Group A (fistulotomy with sphincteroplasty) consisted of 45 patients and group B (fistulotomy alone) included 107 patients. Both groups were similar in age (P=0.16) and sex (P=0.20). Group A had higher proportions of multiple fistulas (26.7% vs. 6.5%, P<0.01) and complex fistulas (mid to high transsphincteric, 37.8% vs. 10.3%; P<0.01) than group B. The median follow-up time was 8 weeks. The overall healing rate was similar in both groups (93.3% vs. 90.6%, P=0.76). No significant difference between the 2 groups was noted in septic complications (6.7% vs. 3.7%, P=0.42).
Conclusion
Fistulotomy with primary sphincter repair demonstrated a comparable healing rate to fistulotomy alone, without an increased risk of postoperative septic complications. Further prospective randomized studies are needed to confirm these findings and to explore the functional outcomes of patients who undergo sphincteroplasty.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Is Primary Opening of Fistula-in-Ano Always at Dentate Line: Correlation Between MRI and Operative Findings in 379 Patients
Pankaj Garg, Gabriele Naldini, Vincent De Parades, Petr Tsarkov, Vipul Yagnik, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Baljit Kaur, G Mahak
Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology.2025; Volume 18: 121. CrossRef
Clinical outcome of fistulectomy with partial sphincter preservation in complex fistula-in-ano in a tertiary hospital of Bangladesh
Jalal Ahmed, M. Meher Ullah, Asif Aman, Satya Ranjan Mondal, Sabrina Akhter Qurashi, Golam Mustafa, Ahsan Habib, Imtiaz Faruk
International Surgery Journal.2025; 12(7): 1131. CrossRef
Sequential Surgical Management of a Recurrent Complex Transsphincteric Anal Fistula With Sphincter Disruption: A Case Report
Diego Pérez-Valdez, Alfredo Sinahi Abarca-Magallón, Samuel Hernández-Alvarado, Daniel Castañeda-Rodríguez, Daniel Alejandro Valdivieso-Siguenza
Cureus.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Achieving a high cure rate in complex anal fistulas: understanding the conceptual role of the Garg cardinal principles
Pankaj Garg, Nicola Clemente, James C. W. Khaw
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(5): 521. CrossRef

Case Report

Anorectal benign disease

Chronic fistula in ano associated with adenocarcinoma: a case report with a review of the literature: Nalini Kanta Ghosh, Ashok Kumar; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(Suppl 1):S1-S5. Published online May 16, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2022.00752.0107

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127 Download

Abstract PDF: The malignant transformation of chronic fistula in ano is rare, accounting for 3% to 11% of all anal canal malignancies. It results from long-standing inflammation and chronic irritation. No guidelines are available for the management of these cases. We herein present a case report of a 55-year-old man who presented with a history of constipation, perianal pain, and discharging fistula in ano of 4-year duration and underwent fistula surgery with recurrence. Biopsy of the fistulous tract revealed adenocarcinoma. He received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, followed by abdominoperineal excision including excision of the fistulous tract. After 18 months of follow-up, he is free of recurrence. We present this case with a review of the literature, highlighting the management strategies.

Technical Note

Transanal opening of the intersphincteric space (TROPIS): a novel procedure on the horizon to effectively manage high complex anal fistulas: Pankaj Garg, Anvesha Mongia; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(1):74-81. Published online October 24, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2022.01263.0180

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310 Download
10 Web of Science
13 Citations

Abstract PDF

Anal fistulas, especially complex and high fistulas, are difficult to manage. The transanal opening of the intersphincteric space (TROPIS) procedure was first described in 2017, and a high success rate of over 90% was reported in high complex fistulas. Since then, more studies and even a meta-analysis have corroborated the high efficacy of this procedure in high fistulas. Conventionally, the main focus was to close the internal (primary) opening for the fistula to heal. However, most complex fistulas have a component of the fistula tract in the intersphincteric plane. This component is like an abscess (sepsis) in a closed space (2 muscle layers). It is a well-known fact that in the presence of sepsis, healing by secondary intention leads to better results than attempting to heal by primary intention. Therefore, TROPIS is the first procedure in which, instead of closing the internal opening, the opening is widened by laying open the fistula tract in the intersphincteric plane so that healing can occur by secondary intention. Although the drainage of high intersphincteric abscesses through the transanal route was described 5 decades ago, the routine utilization of TROPIS for the definitive management of high complex fistulas was first described in 2017. The external anal sphincter (EAS) is completely spared in TROPIS, as the fistula tract on either side of the EAS is managed separately—inner (medial) to the EAS by laying open the intersphincteric space and outer (lateral) to the EAS by curettage or excision.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Perianal fistula a silent epidemic that face proctology and coloproctology in public health
Alida Vallejo-López , Josefina Ramírez-Amaya , Cesar Noboa-Terán
Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología.2025; 5: 1360. CrossRef
TROPIS is effective in managing complex anal fistulas with additional supralevator rectal opening (ASRO) by Garg phenomenon
Nicola Clemente, James C.W. Khaw, Yuliya Medkova, Pankaj Garg
Cirugía Española (English Edition).2025; 103(6): 800101. CrossRef
Response to the Letter to the Editor regarding our article on efficacy one year after the TROPIS Technique for the treatment of complex anal fistula
Fernando de la Portilla de Juan, María Luisa Reyes Díaz, Fátima Hinojosa Ramirez
Cirugía Española (English Edition).2025; 103(6): 800119. CrossRef
Respuesta a la carta al editor sobre nuestro artículo «Eficacia al año de la técnica TROPIS en la fístula perianal compleja»
Fernando de la Portilla de Juan, María Luisa Reyes Díaz, Fátima Hinojosa Ramirez
Cirugía Española.2025; 103(6): 800119. CrossRef
Systematic review and meta-analysis of Transanal Opening of Intersphincteric Space (TROPIS) versus conventional treatments for anal fistula
Yang-Tao Chen, Zhao-Chu Wang, Ya-Meng Xie, Xun Wang, Xu-Xiong Wu, Yang Li, Rong Shi, Jing Wang
Surgery Open Science.2025; 27: 15. CrossRef
TROPIS is effective in managing complex anal fistulas with additional supralevator rectal opening (ASRO) by Garg phenomenon
Nicola Clemente, James C.W. Khaw, Yuliya Medkova, Pankaj Garg
Cirugía Española.2025; 103(6): 800101. CrossRef
Transanal opening of intersphincteric space (TROPIS) treatment for high complex anal fistula: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Pengfei Zhou, Jingen Lu, Yanting Sun, Jiawen Wang
International Journal of Surgery.2025; 111(10): 7301. CrossRef
The Management of the Intersphincteric Component of Anal Fistula Tract Is Pivotal in Response to “A Pilot Study of Porcine Acellular Bladder Matrix Filling in the Treatment of Anal Fistulas”
Pankaj Garg, Vipul Yagnik, Kaushik Bhattacharya
ANZ Journal of Surgery.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of complex anal fistula
Pankaj Garg, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Vipul D. Yagnik, G. Mahak
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(4): 321. CrossRef
Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine approaches in colorectal surgery
Bigyan B. Mainali, James J. Yoo, Mitchell R. Ladd
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(4): 336. CrossRef
Achieving a high cure rate in complex anal fistulas: understanding the conceptual role of the Garg cardinal principles
Pankaj Garg, Nicola Clemente, James C. W. Khaw
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(5): 521. CrossRef
Comparative Evaluation Between Cutting of the Intersphincteric Space vs Cutting Seton in High Anal Fistula: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Jiawei Qin, Yanlan Wu, Xueping Zheng, Kunlan Wu, Gongjian Dai, Yanyan Tan, Xu Yang, Yuqing Sun
Journal of the American College of Surgeons.2024; 239(6): 563. CrossRef
Invited Commentary: The Quest for the Panacea Treatment for Anal Fistula
Steven D Wexner
Journal of the American College of Surgeons.2024; 239(6): 573. CrossRef

Original Articles

Anorectal benign disease

Cell-assisted lipotransfer in treating uncontrollable sepsis associated perianal fistula: a pilot study: In Seob Jeong, Sung Hwan Hwang, Hye Mi Yu, Hyeonseok Jeong; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(2):169-175. Published online February 6, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2022.00486.0069

4,536 View
180 Download
2 Web of Science
3 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
Surgeons can treat debilitating conditions of uncontrollable complex anorectal fistulas with sepsis, even after repeated fistula surgeries, for curative intention. Adipose-derived stem cells have shown good outcomes for refractory Crohn fistula. Unfortunately, cell therapy has some limitations, including high costs. We have therefore attempted immediate cell-assisted lipotransfer (CAL) in treating refractory complex anal fistulas and observed its outcomes.
Methods
In a retrospective study, CAL, using a mixture of freshly extracted autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and fat tissues, was used to treat 22 patients of refractory complex anal fistula from March 2018 to May 2021. Preoperative and postoperative assessments were performed with direct visual inspection, digital palpation, and endoanal ultrasonography. A fistula was considered completely healed if (1) the patient had no symptoms of discharge or inflammation; (2) there were no visible secondary openings of fistula tract inside and outside of the anorectal unit and even in the perineum; and (3) there was no primary opening in the anus. The endpoint of complete remission was wound healing without signs of inflammation 3 months after CAL treatment.
Results
In a total of 22 patients who received CAL treatment, 19 patients showed complete remission, 1 patient showed partial improvement, and 2 patients showed no improvement. One of the 2 patients without improvement at primary endpoint showed complete remission 9 months after CAL. There were no significant adverse effects of the procedure.
Conclusion
We found that the immediately-collected CAL procedure for refractory complex anal fistula showed good outcomes without adverse side effects. It can be strongly recommended as an alternative surgical option for the treatment of complex anal fistula that is uncontrollable even after repeated surgical procedures. However, considering the unpredictable characteristics of SVF, long-term follow-up is necessary.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Meeting report on the 8th Asian Science Editors’ Conference and Workshop 2024
Eun Jung Park
Science Editing.2025; 12(1): 66. CrossRef
Treatment of perianal manifestations of Crohn's disease
I. A. Nikitina, A. V. Leontyev, V. V. Sytkov, M. A. Danilov, A. I. Khavkin, E. A. Yablokova, M. A. Orlyuk
Experimental and Clinical Gastroenterology.2025; (2): 187. CrossRef
Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine approaches in colorectal surgery
Bigyan B. Mainali, James J. Yoo, Mitchell R. Ladd
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(4): 336. CrossRef

Anorectal benign disease

Garg scoring system to predict long-term healing in cryptoglandular anal fistulas: a prospective validation study: Sushil Dawka, Vipul D. Yagnik, Baljit Kaur, Geetha R. Menon, Pankaj Garg; Ann Coloproctol. 2024;40(5):490-497. Published online October 11, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2022.00346.0049

4,657 View
137 Download
6 Web of Science
5 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
Complex anal fistulas can recur after clinical healing, even after a long interval which leads to significant anxiety. Also, ascertaining the efficacy of any new treatment procedure becomes difficult and takes several years. We prospectively analyzed the validity of Garg scoring system (GSS) to predict long-term fistula healing.
Methods
In patients operated for cryptoglandular anal fistulas, magnetic resonance imaging was performed preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively to assess fistula healing. Scores as per the GSS were calculated for each patient at 3 months postoperatively and correlated with long-term healing to check the accuracy of the scoring system.
Results
Fifty-seven patients were enrolled, but 50 were finally included (7 were excluded). These 50 patients (age, 41.2±12.4 years; 46 men) were followed up for 12 to 20 months (median, 17 months). Forty-seven patients (94.0%) had complex fistulas, 28 (56.0%) had recurrent fistulas, 48 (96.0%) had multiple tracts, 20 (40.0%) had horseshoe tracts, 15 (32.0%) had associated abscesses, 5 (10.0%) were suprasphincteric, and 8 (16.0%) were supralevator fistulas. The GSS could accurately predict long-term healing (high positive predictive value, 31 of 31 [100%]) but was not very accurate in predicting nonhealing (negative predictive value, 15 of 19 [78.9%]). The sensitivity in predicting healing was 31 of 35 (88.6%).
Conclusion
GSS accurately predicts long-term fistula with a high positive predictive value (100%) but is less accurate in predicting nonhealing. This scoring system can help allay anxiety in patients and facilitate the early validation of innovative procedures for anal fistulas.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Recent Advances in the Understanding and Management of Anal Fistula from India
Vipul D. Yagnik, Sandeep Kumar, Anshul Thakur, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Sushil Dawka, Pankaj Garg
Indian Journal of Surgery.2024; 86(6): 1105. CrossRef
Rectovaginal Fistulas Not Involving the Rectovaginal Septum Should Be Treated Like Anal Fistulas: A New Concept and Proposal for a Reclassification of Rectovaginal Fistulas
Pankaj Garg, Laxmikant Ladukar, Vipul Yagnik, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Gurleen Kaur
Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology.2024; Volume 17: 97. CrossRef
Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of complex anal fistula
Pankaj Garg, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Vipul D. Yagnik, G. Mahak
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(4): 321. CrossRef
Predictors of outcome in cryptoglandular anal fistula according to magnetic resonance imaging: A systematic review
Alireza Teymouri, Amir Keshvari, Ali Ashjaei, Seyed Mohsen Ahmadi Tafti, Faeze Salahshour, Faezeh Khorasanizadeh, Amirhosein Naseri
Health Science Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Pankaj Garg: A Community Doctor to a Master Innovator to a Global Icon
David N. Armstrong, Iwona Sudoł-Szopińska, Vincent de Parades, Francesco Litta, Manuel Limbert, Khaw C. W. James
Global Journal of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Biomedical Update.2023; 18: 16. CrossRef

Reviews

Gene and protein expression of epithelial to mesenchymal transition for intestinal and anal fistula: a systematic review: Nadila Haryani Osman, Ruhi Fadzlyana Jailani, Hayati Abd Rahman, Nazefah Abdul Hamid; Ann Coloproctol. 2023;39(2):106-114. Published online December 3, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2021.00584.0083

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3 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
Intestinal fibrosis is a common complication of inflammatory bowel diseases. However, the possible involvement of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been scarcely investigated. This systematic review aims to search through research papers that are focusing on messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression profile in EMT in fistula or in intestinal fibrosis.
Methods
Electronic exploration was performed until April 24, 2019 through PubMed, Ovid, Science Direct, and Scopus databases with the terms of “fistula” OR “intestinal fibrosis” AND “epithelial-mesenchymal transition”. Two independent reviewers scrutinized the suitability of the title and abstract before examining the full text that met the inclusion criteria. For each study, the sample types that were used, methods for analysis, and genes expressed were identified. The list of genes was further analyzed using DAVID (Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway.
Results
There were 896 citations found; however, only 3 studies fulfilled the requirements. Among the EMT-related genes, 5 were upregulated genes at mRNA level while 6 were at protein level. However, only 2 downregulated genes were found at each mRNA and protein level. Of the 4 inflammation-related genes found, 3 genes were upregulated at mRNA level and 1 at protein level. These genes were confirmed to be involved in the development of inflammatory induced fibrosis and fistula through EMT. Results from quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis were consistent with the process of EMT, confirmed by the western blot protein analysis.
Conclusion
Many significant genes which are involved in the process of EMT in fistula and intestinal fibrosis have been identified. With high-end technology many more genes could be identified. These genes will be good molecular targets in the development of biomarkers for precision drug targeting in the future treatment of intestinal fibrosis and fistula.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Curing cryptoglandular anal fistulas—Is it possible without surgery?
Chuang Wu, Zubing Mei, Zhenyi Wang
Heliyon.2025; 11(1): e41297. CrossRef
Role of Adipose Tissue Hormones in Pathogenesis of Cryptoglandular Anal Fistula
Marcin Włodarczyk, Jakub Włodarczyk, Kasper Maryńczak, Anna Waśniewska-Włodarczyk, Urszula Doboszewska, Piotr Wlaź, Łukasz Dziki, Jakub Fichna
International Journal of Molecular Sciences.2024; 25(3): 1501. CrossRef
Exosomes Derived from Colon Cancer Cells Promote Tumor Progression and Affect the Tumor Microenvironment
Minsung Kim, Il Tae Son, Gyoung Tae Noh, So-Youn Woo, Ryung-Ah Lee, Bo Young Oh
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2023; 12(12): 3905. CrossRef

Benign proctology,Rare disease & stoma

Perianal Actinomycosis: A Surgeon’s Perspective and Review of Literature: Alexios Dosis, Atia Khan, Henrietta Leslie, Sahar Musaad, Adrian Smith; Ann Coloproctol. 2021;37(5):269-274. Published online October 29, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2021.00332.0047

6,220 View
86 Download
5 Web of Science
6 Citations

Abstract PDF

Actinomycosis is a serious suppurative, bacterial infection caused by the gram-positive anaerobic Actinomyces species. Primary perianal actinomycosis is rare and challenging for the colorectal surgeon. We aimed to present our experience and compare this with available literature. All patients with isolated Actinomyces on microbiology reports, between January 2013 and February 2021, were identified and reviewed. Data collection was retrospective based on electronic patient records. The site of infection and treatment strategy were examined. Perianal cases were evaluated in depth. All publications available in the literature were interrogated. Fifty-nine cases of positive actinomycosis cultures were reviewed. Six cases of colonization were excluded. Actinomyces turicensis was the most common organism isolated. Five cases of perianal actinomycosis were identified requiring prolonged antibiotic and surgical therapy. Twenty-one studies, most case reports, published since 1951 were also reviewed. Diagnosis of perianal actinomycosis may be challenging but should be suspected particularly in recurrent cases. Prolonged bacterial cultures in anaerobic conditions are necessary to identify the bacterium. An extended course of antibiotic therapy (months) is required for eradication in certain cases.

Citations

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Actinomyces Species As Emerging Pathogens: An Observational Study of Clinical Infections and Microbiological Implications
Abraham A Ayantunde, Joanne Kiang, Nadeem S Raja, Javeed Ahmed, Anjali Sanghera, Saumya Venkatesha, Andrew C Ekwesianya
Cureus.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Imaging of perineal suppurations: a pictorial essay
Mohamed Amine Haouari, Chloé Gallégo, Vincent de Parades, Charlotte Fite, Caroline Touloupas, Alexandre Delpla, Isabelle Bouley-Coletta, Marc Zins
Abdominal Radiology.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Skin and Soft Tissue Actinomycosis in Children and Adolescents
Salih Demirhan, Erika Orner, Wendy Szymczak, Philip J. Lee, Margaret Aldrich
Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal.2024; 43(8): 743. CrossRef
Colonic actinomycosis masquerading a cancer resulting complete bowel obstruction-a case report
Lilamani Rajthala, Santosh Sirpaili, Krishna Mohan Adhikari
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports.2024; 125: 110563. CrossRef
Letter to the Editor: Actinomyces turicensis Causing Fournier Gangrene
Kaiying Wang, Thomas Zheng Jie Teng, Vishal G. Shelat
Surgical Infections.2022; 23(4): 411. CrossRef
Fungal perianal abscess as the initial presentation of disseminated coccidioidomycosis
Christian Olivo-Freites, Oscar E. Gallardo-Huizar, Christopher J. Graber, Kevin Ikuta
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Original Articles

Incidence of anal fistula after pyogenic perianal abscess drainage in Kingdom of Bahrain: Zahra Abdulla Isa Yusuf Hasan, Bayan Mohamed, Rawaa AlSayegh, Raed AlMarzooq; Ann Coloproctol. 2023;39(1):27-31. Published online August 9, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2020.00962.0137

9,448 View
198 Download
4 Web of Science
5 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
Perianal fistula is one of the most common anorectal diseases in adult patients, especially men. A relationship between pyogenic perianal abscess and fistula formation is established in multiple domains. This is the first exploration of such association among patients in the country as no related study has been published in Bahrain. We expect this study to be a foundation for future protocols and evidence-based practice.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted in Salmaniya Medical Complex of Bahrain. A total of 109 patients with a diagnosis of anal abscess were included between 2015 and 2018. Data were collected from the electronic files database used in Salmaniya Medical Complex (iSeha) as well as phone calls to the patients. Collected data were analyzed using statistical software.
Results
The most predominant presentation of perianal abscess was pain. Over 50% of abscesses were classified as perianal (56.9%) and among those, left-sided abscesses were more common, followed by right-, posterior-, and anterior-sited, respectively. No recurrence of abscess was recorded among 80% of patients. A fistula developed following abscess drainage in 33.9% of patients. Most fistulas (37.8%) were diagnosed within 6 months or less from abscess drainage. Posterior fistulas were the most common, followed by anterior and left-sided fistulas.
Conclusion
The incidence of anal fistula in Bahrain after perianal abscess was 33.9%. Most of the patients who developed a fistula following pyogenic abscess drainage were males and above the age of 40 years. The most common site for fistula was posterior.

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Risk factors for perianal abscess recurrence after incision and drainage: a review of the literature
Kheira Gabsi
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James Church
ANZ Journal of Surgery.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
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Oladapo Akinmoladun, Quinton M. Hatch
Surgical Clinics of North America.2024; 104(3): 491. CrossRef
Proposal for a new classification of anorectal abscesses based on clinical characteristics and postoperative recurrence
Shan-Zhong Chen, Kui-Jun Sun, Yi-Fan Gu, Hong-Yuan Zhao, Dong Wang, Yun-Fang Shi, Ren-Jie Shi
World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.2024; 16(11): 3425. CrossRef
Research Progress on Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Perianal Deep Space Abscess
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Advances in Clinical Medicine.2023; 13(01): 180. CrossRef

Benign proctology,Minimally invasive surgery

Endofistula laser ablation of fistula-in-ano: a new minimally invasive technique for the treatment of fistula-in-ano: Samuel Lalhruaizela; Ann Coloproctol. 2022;38(4):301-306. Published online July 29, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2020.00668.0095

10,958 View
249 Download
11 Web of Science
12 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
Many techniques are used to treat fistula-in-ano (FIA). The major problems associated with conventional surgical techniques are postoperative complications like sepsis, incontinence, etc. Therefore, several sphincter-saving techniques have been developed in recent years including laser diodes.
Methods
This study presents an early experience of the use of diode lasers with a capacity of 360° radial energy emission endofistula laser ablation (EFLA) of FIA to treat patients with primary low anal fistulas. The primary and secondary success rates were assessed and the factors affecting these rates were evaluated in patients (n=31) who presented with primary, uncomplicated, and low anal fistulas.
Results
Out of 31 patients, 19 (61.3%) were males and 12 (38.7%) were females with a mean age of 38.6±11.5 years. Twenty-one patients (67.7%) had intersphincteric fistula, 9 (29.0%) had transsphincteric fistula, and 1 (3.2%) had suprasphincteric fistula. Thirteen patients (41.9%) had undergone some surgery in the past for FIA. Eleven patients (35.5%) developed postoperative complications. The patients had a low median pain score of 3 on the numeric pain rating scale. The primary success rate was 67.7% (21 of 31) and the secondary success rate was 80.0% (8 of 10) over a median follow-up of 2 years. A significantly higher primary healing rate was observed in patients who did not undergo any prior surgical treatments (P=0.01).
Conclusion
EFLA resulted in moderate primary and high secondary success rates and was not associated with major postoperative complications. Therefore, EFLA can be considered as a preferred noninvasive efficient technique for FIA treatment.

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Kamal Raj Patel, Ramendra K Jauhari, Priyesh Shukla
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Vipul D. Yagnik, Sandeep Kumar, Anshul Thakur, Kaushik Bhattacharya, Sushil Dawka, Pankaj Garg
Indian Journal of Surgery.2024; 86(6): 1105. CrossRef
Cell-assisted lipotransfer in treating uncontrollable sepsis associated perianal fistula: a pilot study
In Seob Jeong, Sung Hwan Hwang, Hye Mi Yu, Hyeonseok Jeong
Annals of Coloproctology.2024; 40(2): 169. CrossRef
Postoperative pain following laser fistula closure versus ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract: A prospective double‐blinded randomized controlled trial
Jolynn Qian Lin Low, Retnagowri Rajandram, Mohamed Rezal Abdul Aziz, April Camilla Roslani
World Journal of Surgery.2024; 48(8): 1990. CrossRef
Use of Non-Thermal Plasma as Postoperative Therapy in Anal Fistula: Clinical Experience and Results
Régulo López-Callejas, Pasquinely Salvador Velasco-García, Mario Betancourt-Ángeles, Benjamín Gonzalo Rodríguez-Méndez, Guillermo Berrones-Stringel, César Jaramillo-Martínez, Fernando Eliseo Farías-López, Antonio Mercado-Cabrera, Raúl Valencia-Alvarado
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34/w mit perianaler Schwellung und Schmerzen
Philipp Rhode, Ines Gockel, Sigmar Stelzner
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Pankaj Garg
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