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World J Gastroenterol. Jul 28, 2011; 17(28): 3286-3291
Published online Jul 28, 2011. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i28.3286
Current management of cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano
Joshua IS Bleier, Husein Moloo
Joshua IS Bleier, Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania/Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States
Husein Moloo, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital, 1053 Carling Ave. CPC Building, Room 306, Ottawa, ON, KIY 1J8, Canada
Author contributions: All authors contributed equally to the design, writing and editing of this review.
Correspondence to: Joshua IS Bleier, MD, FACS, FASCRS, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania/Pennsylvania Hospital, 700 Spruce St., Suite 305, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States. joshua.bleier@uphs.upenn.edu
Telephone: +1-215-8292085 Fax: +1-215-8295350
Received: July 26, 2010
Revised: September 2, 2010
Accepted: September 9, 2010
Published online: July 28, 2011
Abstract

Fistula-in-ano is a difficult problem that physicians have struggled with for centuries. Appropriate treatment is based on 3 central tenets: (1) control of sepsis; (2) closure of the fistula; and (3) maintenance of continence. Treatment options continue to evolve - as a result, it is important to review old and new options on a regular basis to ensure that our patients are provided with up to date information and options. This paper will briefly cover some of the traditional approaches that have been used as well as some newer promising procedures.

Keywords: Cryptoglandular; Fistula; Anorectal; Sphincter sparing; Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract procedure