Treatment of fistulas in ano with fibrin glue.
BACKGROUND
Recent publications show promising results using fibrin glue in the treatment of anal fistulas. The technique is simple, repeatable, with minor surgical trauma so that sphincter function is preserved and further treatment options are not compromised. The aim of this pilot study was to analyse if we could reproduce the results reported in the literature, using this simple technique.


METHODS
Patients with a primary or recurrent anal fistula were included in this trial. Patients with a complex fistula were excluded. Under general or spinal anaesthesia, the fistulas were curetted and injected with fibrin glue. Follow-up visits were scheduled for 1 week, 6 weeks and 6 months.


RESULTS
Twenty-seven patients were included. The overall success rate was 33% after a mean follow-up of 27 weeks. Patients with a recurrent fistula had a poorer outcome (success rate 14%). None of the patients suffered from postoperative continence problems, and no other complications were recorded.


CONCLUSIONS
This study confirms the safety of fibrin glue in the treatment of anal fistulas. However, a high success rate could not be reproduced.
Gisbertz
Suzanne S
SS
Department of Surgery, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Sosef
Meindert N
MN
Festen
Sebastiaan
S
Gerhards
Michael F
MF
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015718:Fibrin Tissue Adhesive / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012003:Rectal Fistula / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012008:Recurrence; D014014:Tissue Adhesives / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D015718:Fibrin Tissue Adhesive; D014014:Tissue Adhesives