title: Can the external anal sphincter be preserved in the treatment of trans-sphincteric fistula-in-ano?
abstract: A method of preserving the external anal sphincter in the treatment of complex trans-sphincteric fistula-in-ano is described. Cure without division of the external sphincter was possible in 44% of cases. Disturbances of continence, common after conventional fistula surgery, appeared to be reduced in those patients whose external sphincter remains intact.
authors.affiliation: St. Mark's Hospital, London, UK.
authors.forename: J P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Thomson
authors.forename: A H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Ross
mesh_terms: D001003:Anal Canal / Q000601:surgery*; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012003:Rectal Fistula / Q000601:surgery*