title: Total sphincter conservation in high fistula in ano: results of a new approach.
abstract: An intersphincteric approach has been developed that allows complete sphincter preservation in some patients with high fistulas. This operation in 13 patients (eight trans-sphincteric, five suprasphincteric tracks) has resulted in complete success in seven, partial success (ultimate sacrifice of the internal anal sphincter) in two and failure in four. When the operation is successful continence is better than after failed procedures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, St Mark's Hospital, London, UK.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Matos
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Lunniss
authors.forename: R K
authors.initials: RK
authors.lastname: Phillips
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001004:Anus Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D003093:Colitis, Ulcerative / Q000150:complications; D003424:Crohn Disease / Q000150:complications; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012003:Rectal Fistula / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods