title: Total anal sphincter saving technique for fistula-in-ano; the ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To describe a new technique for fistula-in-ano surgery aimed at total sphincter preservation, and evaluate the preliminary results concerning non-healing and intact anal function.
  
  
  METHODS
  A prospective observational study in eighteen fistula-in-ano patients treated by ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) technique, from January to June 2006.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Fistula-in-ano in seventeen patients healed primarily (94.4%). There was one non-healing case (5.6%). The mean healing time was four weeks. None had disturbances in clinical anal continence.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The early outcome of the LIFT technique is quite impressive. Results warrant a larger study with long-term evaluation. This technique has the potential to become a viable option for fistula-in-ano surgery.
authors.affiliation: Division of Colorectal Surgery, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
authors.forename: Arun
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Rojanasakul
authors.forename: Jirawat
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Pattanaarun
authors.forename: Chucheep
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Sahakitrungruang
authors.forename: Kasaya
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Tantiphlachiva
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001003:Anal Canal; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008026:Ligation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012003:Rectal Fistula / Q000601:surgery*