Efficacy of anal fistula plug in closure of Crohn's anorectal fistulas

Gracilis muscle interposition for pouch-vaginal fistulas: a single-centre cohort study and literature review

BACKGROUND

First described by Parks and Nicholls in 1978, the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has revolutionized the treatment of mucosal ulcerative colitis (MUC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). IPAA is fraught with complications, one of which is pouch-vaginal fistulas (PVF), a rare but challenging complication noted in 3.9-15% of female patients. Surgical treatment success approximates 50%. Gracilis muscle interposition (GMI) is a promising technique that has shown good results with other types of perineal fistulas. We present the results from our institution and a comprehensive literature review.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study including all patients with a PVF treated with GMI at our institution from December 2018-January 2000. Primary outcome was complete healing after ileostomy closure.

RESULTS

Nine patients were included. Eight of nine IPAAs (88.9%) were performed for MUC, and one for FAP. A subsequent diagnosis of Crohn's disease was made in five patients. Initial success occurred in two patients (22.2%), one patient was lost to follow-up and seven patients, after further procedures, ultimately achieved healing (77.8%). Four of five patients with Crohn's achieved complete healing (80%).

CONCLUSION

Surgical healing rates quoted in the literature for PVFs are approximately 50%. The initial healing rate was 22.2% and increased to 77.8% after subsequent surgeries, while it was 80% in patients with Crohn's disease. Given this, gracilis muscle interposition may have a role in the treatment of pouch-vaginal fistulas.

Endoscopic Treatment of Acute and Chronic Anastomotic Leaks from Inflammatory Bowel Disease Surgery

Acute or chronic anastomotic leak is a common complication after any gastrointestinal surgery in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The underlying disease of the bowel, comorbidities, malnutrition, anemia, and concurrent use of corticosteroids increase the risk for the development of anastomotic leaks. Anastomotic leak is traditionally managed with surgery. However, recent innovation has allowed the use of endoscopic methods in the management of some anastomotic leaks and their consequences. This article discusses a variety of endoscopic techniques that have either been established or are under current evaluation, for the management of anastomotic leaks in patients with IBD.

Endoscopic Therapy for Fistulas and Abscesses in Crohn's Disease

Crohn disease (CD) patients can develop fistula or abscess from persistent active disease or postsurgical complications. Penetrating CD is traditionally treated with medication and surgery. The role of medication alone in the treatment of fistula is limited, except perianal fistulas or enterocutaneous fistula. Surgery is the standard treatment in those with hollow-organ to hollow-organ fistula, like ileovesicular fistula. Surgery is invasive with a higher risk of postoperative complications. Endoscopic therapy has evolved as a valid option. Fistulotomy, surgical or endoscopic, should be considered first-line therapy when feasible. Incision and drainage of perianal abscesses with an endoscopic device may be attempted.

Trends in Treatment for Hemorrhoids, Fistula, and Anal Fissure: Go Along the Current Trends

Recent trends in benign anal disease treatment are minimizing surgery to preserve normal anorectal anatomical unit and its functions. However, some surgeons still prefer and are confident with the use of conventional solid surgical methods. In this report, we will investigate the recent trends in the treatment for hemorrhoids, fistula, and anal fissure. The practice guidelines of advanced countries, including UK, Italy, France, USA, Japan, and ESCP, are referred to in this review. Opinions suggested in international meetings were also added. In the management of hemorrhoids, surgical treatments and office procedures were recommended according to a patient's status and preference. For the management of complex anal fistula, novel sphincter-preserving surgical techniques are more widely accepted than a sphincter-dividing procedure of immediate repair following fistulectomy. The treatment of anal fissures is well covered in the guidelines of the ASCRS.

The Optimal Management of Fistulizing Crohn’s Disease: Evidence beyond Randomized Clinical Trials

Fistulizing Crohn’s disease (FCD) remains the most challenging aspect of treating patients with CD. FCD can occur in up to 30% of patients with CD and may lead to significant disability and impaired quality of life. The optimal treatment strategies for FCD require a multidisciplinary approach, including a combined medical and surgical approach. The therapeutic options for FCD are limited due to sparse evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs). The current recommendations are mainly based on post hoc analysis from RCTs, real-world clinical studies and expert opinion. There is variation in everyday clinical practice amongst gastroenterologists and surgeons. The evidence for anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy is the strongest in the treatment of FCD. However, long-term fistula healing can be achieved in only 30–50% of patients. In recent years, emerging data in the advent of therapeutic modalities, including the use of new biologic agents, therapeutic drug monitoring, novel surgical methods and mesenchymal stem cell therapy, have been shown to improve outcomes in achieving fistula healing. This review summarizes the existing literature on current and emerging therapies to provide guidance beyond RCTs in managing FCD.

Rectovaginal Fistula in Crohn's Disease: When and How to Operate?

Rectovaginal fistula (RVF) occurring during the course of Crohn's disease (CD) constitutes a therapeutic challenge and is characterized by a high rate of recurrence. To optimize the outcome of CD-related RVF repair, the best conditions for correct healing should be obtained. Remission of CD should be achieved with no active proctitis, the perianal CD activity should be minimized, and local septic complications should be controlled. The objective of surgical repair is to close the fistula tract with minimal recurrence and functional disturbance. Several therapeutic strategies exist and the approach should be tailored to the anatomy of the RVF and the quality of the local supporting tissues. Herein, we review the medical and surgical management of CD-related RVF.

Advanced Regenerative Medicine Strategies for Treatment of Perianal Fistula in Crohn's Disease

Regenerative medicine is an emerging therapeutic method that aims to reconstruct tissues and organs. This advanced therapeutic approach has demonstrated great potential in addressing the limitations of medical and surgical procedures for treating perineal fistula in patients with Crohn's disease. Recent developments in stem cell technology have led to a massive good manufacturing practices (GMPs) production of various stem cells, including mesenchymal and embryonic cells, along with induction of pluripotent stem cells to repair damaged tissues in the fistula. The recent advances in separation and purification of exosomes, as biologic nanovesicles carrying anti-inflammatory and regenerative agents, have made them powerful tools to treat this inflammatory disease. Further, tremendous advances in nanotechnology, biomaterials, and scaffold fabrication methods enable tissue engineering methods to synthesize tissue-like structures to assist surgical techniques. This review focuses on advanced regenerative-based methods including stem cell therapy, exosome therapy, and tissue engineering used in the treatment of perianal fistula. Relevant in vitro and in vivo studies and the latest innovations in implementation of regenerative medicine for this disease are also separately reviewed. Additionally, current challenges regarding implementation of g stem cells, exosomes, and tissue engineering methods for bridging the gaps between laboratory findings and clinic application will be discussed.

A systematic review of the quality of reporting of interventions in the surgical treatment of Crohn's anal fistula: an assessment using the TIDiER and Blencowe frameworks

BACKGROUND

Crohn's anal fistula is a challenging condition, and may require multiple surgical procedures. To replicate successful procedures, these must be adequately reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to review the quality of reporting of components of surgical interventions for Crohn's anal fistula.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted. It was registered with PROSPERO (CRD:42019135157). The Medline and EMBASE databases were searched for studies reporting interventions intended to close fistula in patients with Crohn's disease, published between 1999 and August 2019. Abstracts and full texts were screened for inclusion by two reviewers. Dual extraction of data was performed to compare reporting to the TIDiER and Blencowe frameworks for reporting of interventions.

RESULTS

Initial searches identified 207 unique studies; 38 full texts were screened for inclusion and 33 were included. The most common study design was retrospective cohort (17/33), and the most frequently reported interventions were anal fistula plug (n = 8) and fibrin glue (n = 6). No studies showed coverage of all domains of TIDieR. Reporting was poor among domains related to who provided an intervention, where it was provided, and how it was tailored. Reporting of domains in the Blencowe framework was poor; the majority of studies did not report the component steps of procedures or efforts to standardise them.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that reporting on technical aspects of interventions for Crohn's anal fistula is poor. Surgeons should aim to improve reporting to allow accurate reproduction of techniques both in clinical practice and in clinical trials.

Long-term outcome of the Surgisis® (Biodesign® ) anal fistula plug for complex cryptoglandular and Crohn's fistulas

AIM

To evaluate the long-term success rate of treatment with the Surgisis^® (Biodesign^® ) anal fistula plug for complex anal fistulas, assess fistula plug failure over time and compare success rates for fistula plug between a group of patients with cryptoglandular fistula and another group with Crohn's fistula.

METHOD

This is a single-centre study of consecutive patients treated with the Surgisis^® (Biodesign^® ) anal fistula plug between May 2006 and October 2009. All patients had complex anal fistulas in need of surgical treatment. The patients were assessed preoperatively by physical examination and three-dimensional (3D) endoanal ultrasound, and treated with a loose seton. Postoperative assessment by clinical examination and 3D endoanal ultrasound was performed at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6-12 months. Long-term follow-up was carried out in 2017 using a questionnaire, and clinical examination combined with 3D endoanal ultrasound was performed if the questionnaire indicated any signs of fistula recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 95 patients were included; 30 had quiescent Crohn's disease. Overall, 151 plug procedures were performed. Long-term follow-up was undertaken in 90 (95%) patients; the results showed that after a median period of 110 months, the overall healing rate after one to five plug procedures was 38%. No statistically significant difference in success rate was found between the cryptoglandular fistula group and the Crohn's fistula group (P = 0.37). No further healing was observed after the use of three plugs.

CONCLUSION

Considering its low morbidity in a complex disease with high recurrence rates over time, the anal fistula plug may still be considered as one of the first-line treatments for patients with complex anal fistulas.

Modern Management of Perianal Crohn's Disease: A Review

Perianal Crohn's disease (CD) is a complex manifestation of CD that affects approximately 10% of patients. The spectrum of disease is quite variable, ranging from relatively mild disease to severe, aggressive manifestations that result in frequent hospitalizations, multiple surgeries, and poor quality of life. Despite significant recent advances in surgical and medical management, treatment remains challenging and frequently requires a multidisciplinary medical-surgical approach. The goal of this article is to review the current literature regarding the work-up, treatment, and future directions of therapy. Crucial features of effective management include the precise identification of manifestations, control of sepsis, limiting rectal inflammation, frequently with use of antitumor necrosis factor agents, and avoidance of extensive surgery.

Hot topics in global perianal fistula research: A scopus-based bibliometric analysis

BACKGROUND

The number of citations a scientific paper has received indicates its impact within any medical field. We performed a bibliometric analysis to highlight the key topics of the most frequently cited 100 articles on perianal fistula to determine the advances in this field.

METHODS

The Scopus database was searched from 1960 to 2018 using the search terms "perianal fistula" or "anal fistula" or "fistula in ano" or "anal fistulae" or "anorectal fistulae" including full articles. The topic, year of publication, publishing journal, country of origin, institution, and department of the first author were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median number of citations for the top 100 of 3431 eligible papers, ranked in order of the number of citations, was 100 (range: 65-811), and the number of citations per year was 7.5 (range: 3.8-40.1). The most-cited paper (by Parks et al in 1976; 811citations) focused on the classification of perianal fistula. The institution with the highest number of publications was St Mark's Hospital, London, UK. The most-studied topic was surgical management (n = 47). The country and the decade with the greatest number of publications in this field were the USA (n = 34) and the 2000s (n = 50), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The 100 most frequently cited manuscripts showed that surgical management had the greatest impact on the study of perianal fistula. This citation analysis provides a reference of what could be considered the most classic papers on perianal fistula, and may serve as a reference for researchers and clinicians as to what constitutes a citable paper in this field.

Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): Crohn's disease

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a position statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of Crohn's disease management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the surgical treatment of Crohn's disease. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Are an Efficient Treatment for Fistula-in-ano of Japanese Rabbit

Fistula-in-ano (FIA, anal fistula) treatment remains a surgical challenge for coloproctologists. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are a new frontier in the treatment of FIA. In this study, we established a FIA model of Japanese rabbit and evaluated the effect of four treatments on fistula healing: ADSC transplantation, acellular small intestinal submucosa (ASIS), noncutting seton, and PBS as negative control. High-throughput RNA sequencing was also performed to investigate the anal tissue (normal and ADSC treatment group) expression profile of mRNA. Our data showed that ADSC treatment had the shortest time to promote fistula healing compared to the other treatments, and fistula filled with new adipose tissue and muscle cells without scar. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of RNA-seq data showed that the differential genes are enriched in system development and animal organ development. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that ADSCs rapidly promote fistula healing through differentiation, a promising stem cell therapy for FIA. The rabbit is an effective animal model for evaluating FIA therapeutic options.

Advances in Perianal Disease Associated with Crohn's Disease-Evolving Approaches

Perianal diseases, common complications of Crohn's disease, are difficult to diagnose/manage. Patients with perianal Crohn's disease suffer from persistent pain and drainage, recurrent perianal sepsis, impaired quality of life, and financial burden. Conventional medical and surgical therapies carry risk of infection, myelosuppression, incontinence, disease recurrence. Although the phenotype of Crohn's disease has been extensively studied, reported outcomes are inconsistent. Endoanal ultrasonography is also becoming popular because of low cost and ability to acquire images in real time. Emerging management strategies for treatment including laser therapy, local injection of agents, use of hyperbaric oxygen, and stem cell therapy, have demonstrated efficacy.

Stem cell therapy for perianal Crohn's

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Perianal Crohn's disease is a morbid and disabling condition, notoriously difficult to successfully treat with conventional medical and surgical therapies. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an emerging novel therapy for perianal Crohn's disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Over 300 patients with perianal Crohn's disease have now been treated with MSCs in the context of clinical trials. All trials have demonstrated safety, and efficacy superior to conventional therapy with biologics and surgical intervention. This was consistent despite the heterogeneity in study protocols including variability in cell dosing, mode of delivery, repeat dosing, and allogeneic versus autologous donors. Sustained healing to 1 year has also been demonstrated in a recent extension of the largest phase III study confirming superior efficacy of MSCs to placebo at 1-year follow-up. However, several outstanding questions regarding the use of MSCs for perianal Crohn's disease remain, which, if answered, could enhance MSCs' treatment efficacy. These include defining the optimal MSC donor, optimal MSC source (e.g., bone marrow versus adipose tissue), investigating a potential alloimmune response following allogeneic cellular delivery, and determining the optimal mode for MSC delivery. In addition to these unanswered questions, significant challenges in the required infrastructure and cost required for cell-based therapies may drive future research toward identifying novel acellular therapies.

SUMMARY

Novel regenerative therapies offer promising new treatment options for perianal Crohn's disease, without the risk of opportunistic infection seen with biologics and incontinence with surgical techniques. Future research will help define the optimal MSC product and treatment protocol, and may even expand our horizon of regenerative medicine into acellular therapy as well as cell-based therapies.

Anal fistula plug vs rectal advancement flap for the treatment of complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas: a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies with long-term follow-up

AIM

The aim was to compare the effectiveness of the anal fistula plug (AFP) with the rectal advancement flap (RAF) for complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search to identify relevant available articles published without language restriction from Embase and PubMed databases and the Cochrane Library. Studies comparing outcomes with the AFP vs RAF for complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas were eligible for inclusion.

RESULTS

A total of 11 articles with 810 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Four RCTs and one observational clinical study provided long-term follow-up. The pooled analysis of all 11 studies indicated that there was no significant difference between the AFP and RAF in terms of healing rate, recurrence rate and incidence of fistula complications. However, the pooled results of studies with long-term follow-up revealed that the RAF group had a significantly higher healing rate (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13, 0.78, P = 0.01) and lower recurrence rate (OR 4.45, 95% CI 1.45, 13.65, P = 0.009) than the AFP group.

CONCLUSIONS

For the treatment of complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas, the RAF was superior to the AFP in terms of healing and recurrence rate after pooling of randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up, even though a comparison based on the pooling of all studies showed no significant difference.

Early Results of a Phase I Trial Using an Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Coated Fistula Plug for the Treatment of Transsphincteric Cryptoglandular Fistulas

BACKGROUND

Management of transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas remains a challenging problem and the optimal surgical approach remains elusive. Mesenchymal stem cells, increasingly being utilized for perianal Crohn's disease, offer a novel therapy to treat cryptoglandular fistulas.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine safety and feasibility of using an autologous mesenchymal stem cell-coated fistula plug in patients with transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas.

DESIGN

This study is a phase I clinical trial.

SETTING

This study was conducted at a tertiary academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Adult (>18 years) male and female patients with transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas were selected.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a mesenchymal stem cell-coated fistula plug in patients with transsphincteric fistulas.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (8 women, mean age 39.8 years) with a single-tract transsphincteric fistula received a mesenchymal stem cell-loaded fistula plug and were followed for 6 months. Duration of disease at the time of study enrollment was a median of 3.0 years (range, 1-13 years) with a median of 3.5 (range, 1-20) prior surgical interventions. Adverse events included 1 plug extrusion, 1 abdominal wall seroma, 3 perianal abscesses requiring drainage, and 1 patient with perianal cellulitis. There were no serious adverse events. At 6 months, 3 patients had complete clinical healing, 8 had partial healing, and 4 patients showed no clinical improvement. Radiographic improvement was seen in 11 of 15 patients.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by the small cohort and short follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous mesenchymal stem cell-coated fistula plug treatment of transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas was safe and feasible and resulted in complete or partial healing in a majority of patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A897.

Permacol Collagen Paste Injection for Treatment of Complex Cryptoglandular Anal Fistulas: An Observational Cohort Study With a 2-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Permacol paste injection is a novel treatment approach for complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas. This study was performed to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of treatment with Permacol paste for complex cryptoglandular fistulas.

METHODS

Patients with primary or recurrent complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas treated with Permacol paste from 2014 to 2016 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 46 patients (median age, 41.3 years; 21 female) underwent Permacol paste injection; 20 patients (43%) had previously undergone failed fistula surgery. The patients had experienced anal fistula-related symptoms for a median of 10 weeks (range, 3-50 weeks). All patients had a draining seton in situ for a median of 10 weeks (range, 4-46 weeks). The median follow-up time was 24 months (range, 1-25 months). At the 1-month follow-up, 2 patients had paste extrusion and 2 had anal abscesses. The mean preoperative Continence Grading Scale score was 1.10 ± 1.40, and that at 3 months postoperatively was 1.13 ± 1.39 ( P = .322). There was a significant difference in the preoperative and the 1- and 3-month postoperative pain scores ( P < .001). At the 24-month follow-up, the healing rate was 50% (n = 23). A total of 19 patients (41%) with a recurrent fistula after failed Permacol paste injection required additional operative procedures. The satisfaction rate at the 2-year follow-up was 65%.

CONCLUSION

Permacol paste injection is minimally invasive and technically easy to perform. It can be considered as a viable and reasonable option for the treatment of complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas in patients with fecal continence disorders.

Extracellular matrix fistula plug for repair of bronchopleural fistula

Introduction

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a feared complication of pulmonary resection. Fistula plugs (FP) have been described as an adequate treatment in anorectal disease. We describe our early experience placing an FP in the treatment of BPF.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively reviewed 5 patients for whom a FP was placed for BPF at our institution. Demographic data, initial perioperative information, method and technique of FP placement, and success is reported.

Results

Five patients (4 male, 1 female) with a median age of 63 years (range, 57–76 years) underwent 6 FP placements for BPF. Two patients were post-pneumonectomy and 3 patients post-lobectomy. The median time to presentation following surgery was 118 days (range 22–218). Upon bronchoscopic or operative re-evaluation, 3 patients had successful cessation of their air leak at 0, 1 and 4 days. Two of three patients subsequently underwent a thoracic muscle flap placement to augment healing. One patient had a persistent air leak despite 2 separate FP placements. The air leak stopped with endobronchial valves (EBV) which were deployed proximal to the FP, 9 days after placement of the FP. Another patient had a successful muscle flap placed 80 days after FP placement. There were no complications associated with the FP. Three of five patients were deemed successfully treated with FP placement alone.

Conclusion

In patients with a postoperative BPF and pleural window, placement of a FP had a modest success rate and can be considered as a treatment modality option for BPF.

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Injections for the Treatment of Perianal Crohn's Disease: Progress Made and Future Directions

BACKGROUND

There has been a surge in clinical trials studying the safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of perianal Crohn's disease.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work was to systematically review the literature to determine safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of refractory perianal Crohn's disease.

DATA SOURCES

Sources included PubMed, Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies that reported safety and/or efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of perianal Crohn's disease were included. Two independent assessors reviewed eligible articles.

INTERVENTION

The study intervention was delivery of mesenchymal stem cells to treat perianal Crohn's disease.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

Safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells used to treat perianal Crohn's disease were measured.

RESULTS

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Three trials with a comparison arm were included in the meta-analysis. There were no significant increases in adverse events (OR = 1.07 (95% CI, 0.61-1.89); p = 0.81) or serious adverse events (OR = 0.53 (95% CI, 0.28-0.98); p = 0.04) in patients treated with mesenchymal stem cells. Mesenchymal stem cells were associated with improved healing as compared with control subjects at primary end points of 6 to 24 weeks (OR = 3.06 (95% CI, 1.05-8.90); p = 0.04) and 24 to 52 weeks (OR = 2.37 (95% CI, 0.90-6.25); p = 0.08).

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by its multiple centers and heterogeneity in the study inclusion criteria, mesenchymal stem cell origin, dose and frequency of delivery, use of scaffolding, and definition and time point of fistula healing.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there have been only 3 trials conducted with control arms, existing data demonstrate improved efficacy and no increase in adverse or serious adverse events with mesenchymal stem cells as compared with control subjects for the treatment of perianal Crohn's disease.

A novel model of acellular dermal matrix plug for anal fistula treatment. Report of a case and surgical consideration based on first utility in Poland

Anal fistula (AF) is a pathological connection between anus and skin in its surroundings. The main reason for the formation of anal fistula is a bacterial infection of the glands within the anal crypts. One of the modern techniques for the treatment of fistulas that do not interfere with the sphincters consists in implantation of a plug made from collagen material. We are presenting the first Polish experience with a new model of biomaterial plug for the treatment of anal fistula. We also point out key elements of the procedure (both preoperative and intraoperative) associated with this method. In the authors' opinion, the method is simple, safe and reproducible. Innovative shape of the plug minimizes the risk of its migration and rotation. It also perfectly blends with and adapts to the course and shape of the fistula canal, allowing it to become incorporated and overgrown with tissue in the fistula canal. The relatively short operation time, minor postoperative pain and faster convalescence are with no doubt additional advantages of the method. Long-term observation involving more patients is essential for evaluation of the efficacy of the treatment of fistulas with the new type of plug.

Comparison of Stromal Vascular Fraction with or Without a Novel Bioscaffold to Fibrin Glue in a Porcine Model of Mechanically Induced Anorectal Fistula

BACKGROUND

Anorectal fistulas (ARFs) are a common, devastating, event in the life of a patient with Crohn's disease. ARFs occur in up to 50% of patients with Crohn's disease. Treatment begins with surgical drainage of the initial abscess, followed by antibiotic therapy, then anti-inflammatory medications. If medical therapy fails to close the fistula tract, surgical intervention is often pursued. Surgery incurs risk of incontinence because of sphincter injury. Increasingly, the role of cell-based therapy is being investigated in ARFs. We evaluated the role a bioabsorbable scaffold plays in delivering cell-based therapy using a porcine model of AFR.

METHODS

ARFs were mechanically created and matured by setons. After 28 days, setons were removed; periaortic fat was harvested and processed for stromal vascular fraction (SVF). The cells were labeled with a membrane stain for later identification, then injected into the fistula or implanted through scaffold. Fistulas not treated with cells were injected with fibrin glue. Animals were monitored visually for healing at weeks 2 and 4, then euthanized to evaluate fistulas for histologic healing.

RESULTS

All fistulas (6/6) treated with SVF + scaffolds healed by week 2, compared with only 4/6 with just SVF and 0/5 treated with fibrin glue. Scaffolds retained SVF within the fistula tract more readily than injection method and SVF+scaffold treatment accelerated the healing process. Robust neovascularization was also seen in fistulas treated with SVF+scaffold. No adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Scaffold technology may improve cell-based therapy healing rates for Crohn's ARFs. This advance should be investigated by human trials.

Systematic review of surgical interventions for Crohn's anal fistula

Background

Anal fistula occurs in approximately one in three patients with Crohn's disease and is typically managed through a multimodal approach. The optimal surgical therapy is not yet clear. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and assess the literature on surgical treatments of Crohn's anal fistula.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted that analysed studies relating to surgical treatment of Crohn's anal fistula published on MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases between January 1995 and March 2016. Studies reporting specific outcomes of patients treated for Crohn's anal fistula were included. The primary outcome was fistula healing rate. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane ROBINS‐I and ROB tool as appropriate.

Results

A total of 1628 citations were reviewed. Sixty‐three studies comprising 1584 patients were ultimately selected in the analyses. There was extensive reporting on the use of setons, advancement flaps and fistula plugs. Randomized trials were available only for stem cells and fistula plugs. There was inconsistency in outcome measures across studies, and a high degree of bias was noted.

Conclusion

Data describing surgical intervention for Crohn's anal fistula are heterogeneous with a high degree of bias. There is a clear need for standardization of outcomes and description of study cohorts for better understanding of treatment options.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Injections for the Treatment of Perianal Crohn's Disease: What We Have Accomplished and What We Still Need to Do

Perianal Crohn's disease [CD] is found in a quarter of patients with CD and remains notoriously difficult to treat. Several medical and surgical therapies are available. However, none is particularly effective nor reliably provides sustained remission. In addition, surgical intervention is complicated by poor healing and the potential for incontinence. Mesenchymal stem cell-based therapies provide a promising treatment alternative for perianal CD, with demonstrated safety, improved efficacy, and a decreased side effect profile. Several phase I, II, and now III randomised controlled trials have now reported safety and efficacy in treating perianal CD. The aim of this review is to discusses the outcomes of conventional treatment approaches, outcomes of mesenchymal stem cell therapies, considerations specific to stem cell-based therapies, and future directions for research.

The extracellular matrix of the gastrointestinal tract: a regenerative medicine platform

The synthesis and secretion of components that constitute the extracellular matrix (ECM) by resident cell types occur at the earliest stages of embryonic development, and continue throughout life in both healthy and diseased physiological states. The ECM consists of a complex mixture of insoluble and soluble functional components that are arranged in a tissue-specific 3D ultrastructure, and it regulates numerous biological processes, including angiogenesis, innervation and stem cell differentiation. Owing to its composition and influence on embryonic development, as well as cellular and organ homeostasis, the ECM is an ideal therapeutic substrate for the repair of damaged or diseased tissues. Biologic scaffold materials that are composed of ECM have been used in various surgical and tissue-engineering applications. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract presents distinct challenges, such as diverse pH conditions and the requirement for motility and nutrient absorption. Despite these challenges, the use of homologous and heterologous ECM bioscaffolds for the focal or segmental reconstruction and regeneration of GI tissue has shown promise in early preclinical and clinical studies. This Review discusses the importance of tissue-specific ECM bioscaffolds and highlights the major advances that have been made in regenerative medicine strategies for the reconstruction of functional GI tissues.

Interdisciplinary Management of Perianal Crohn's Disease

Perianal disease is a common manifestation of Crohn disease (CD) that results in significant morbidity and decreased quality of life. Despite several medical and surgical options, complex perianal CD remains difficult to treat. Before the advent of biologic therapy, antibiotics were the mainstay of medical treatment. Infliximab remains the most well-studied medical therapy for perianal disease. Surgical interventions are limited by the risk of nonhealing wounds and potential incontinence. When treatment options fail, fecal diversion or proctectomy may be necessary. Stem cell therapies may offer improved results and seem to be safe, but are not yet widely used.

Efficacy of an anal fistula plug for fistulas-in-Ano in children

BACKGROUND

In children, perianal abscesses have a good prognosis and often heal with age. However, some perianal abscesses are refractory to treatment and remain as fistulas-in-Ano. Treatment with a Surgisis Anal Fistula Plug® has been reported as a new method of treatment for fistulas. In adults, the plug has been reported to cause little pain and have a high cure rate, but there have been no reported cases of its use in children.

PURPOSE

This study was designed to analyze the efficacy of the plug for closure of refractory fistulas in children.

METHODS

Since the plug has not been approved as a medical device in Japan, application for its use was submitted to the ethics committee of our university, and approval was granted, marking the first use of the plug in Japan. We classified refractory fistulas as those treated for 6months or longer and remaining unhealed, even after 1year of age, despite continued conservative treatment. The plug was used in 11 refractory fistulas in 8 children.

RESULTS

Eight of 11 fistulas (72.7%) were successfully treated. Three fistulas recurred, and fistulectomies were performed. No sequelae were observed after AFP treatment.

CONCLUSION

The plug was effective even for closure of refractory fistulas without sequelae in children.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Treatment Study, Level IV.

Exploring endoscopic therapy for the treatment of Crohn's disease-related fistula and abscess

Fistula and abscess represent penetrating disease phenotypes of Crohn's disease (CD) and can develop in patients with or without prior history of CD-related surgery. While CD fistula and abscess have been traditionally treated with medical and surgical therapy, the role of endoscopic therapy in this particular phenotype of CD is expanding recently, thanks to advanced endoscopic techniques and a better understanding of pathogenesis and natural history of the disease and principle of treatment. The success of endoscopic treatment for inflammatory bowel disease depends on comprehension and appreciation of principles, then techniques, followed by instrument and device. Attempts should be made to temporarily or permanently close the feeding side (or the primary) orifice at the gut, by various forms of clipping. Endoscopic fistulotomy is feasible, particularly for perianal fistula and surgery-associated distal bowel fistula. Perianal abscess can be treated with endoscopic incision and drainage and even seton placement. Endoscopic treatment for fistula and abscess as well as for stricture has become an important part of the multidisciplinary approach to complex CD.

Randomized clinical trial comparing collagen plug and advancement flap for trans-sphincteric anal fistula

Background

The role of a collagen plug for treating anal fistula is not well established. A randomized prospective multicentre non-inferiority study of surgical treatment of trans-sphincteric cryptogenic fistulas was undertaken, comparing the anal fistula plug with the mucosal advancement flap with regard to fistula recurrence rate and functional outcome.

Methods

Patients with an anal fistula were evaluated for eligibility in three centres, and randomized to either mucosal advancement flap surgery or collagen plug, with clinical follow-up at 3 and 12 months. The primary outcome was the fistula recurrence rate. Anal pain (visual analogue scale), anal incontinence (St Mark's score) and quality of life (Short Form 36 questionnaire) were also reported.

Results

Ninety-four patients were included; 48 were allocated to the plug procedure and 46 to advancement flap surgery. The median follow-up was 12 (range 9–24) months. The recurrence rate at 12 months was 66 per cent (27 of 41 patients) in the plug group and 38 per cent (15 of 40) in the flap group (P = 0·006). Anal pain was reduced after operation in both groups. Anal incontinence did not change in the follow-up period. Patients reported an increased quality of life after 3 months. There were no differences between the groups with regard to pain, incontinence or quality of life.

Conclusion

There was a considerably higher recurrence rate after the anal fistula plug procedure than following advancement flap repair. Registration number: NCT01021774 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Results of the Gore Bio-A fistula plug implantation in the treatment of anal fistula: a multicentre study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this prospective study was to determine the efficiency of the Gore Bio-A synthetic plug in the treatment of anal fistulas.

METHODS

A synthetic bioabsorbable anal fistula plug was implanted in 60 patients. All fistulas were transsphincteric and cryptoglandular in origin.

RESULTS

The healing rate after 1 year of follow-up was 52 % (31 out of 60 patients). No patient was lost to follow-up. The treatment had no effect on the incontinence score. The plug dislodgement rate was 10 % (6 out of 60 patients). Thirty-four per cent of the patients (16 out of 47) required reoperation. The average operating time was 32 ± 10.2 min, and the average length of hospital stay was 3.3 ± 1.8 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Synthetic plugs may be an alternative to bioprosthetic fistula plugs in the treatment of transsphincteric anal fistulas. This method might have better success rates than treatment with bioprosthetic fistula plugs.

Adoption and success rates of perineal procedures for fistula-in-ano: a systematic review

AIM

Several sphincter-preserving techniques have been described with extremely encouraging initial reports. However, more recent studies have failed to confirm the positive early results. We evaluate the adoption and success rates of advancement flap procedures (AFP), fibrin glue sealant (FGS), anal collagen plug (ACP) and ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) procedures based on their evolution in time for the management of anal fistula.

METHOD

A PubMed search from 1992 to 2015. An assessment of adoption, duration of study and success rate was undertaken.

RESULTS

We found 133 studies (5604 patients): AFP (40 studies, 2333 patients), FGS (31 studies, 871 patients), LIFT (19 studies, 759 patients), ACP (43 studies, 1641 patients). Success rates ranged from 0% to 100%. Study duration was significantly associated with success rates in AFP (P = 0.01) and FGS (P = 0.02) but not in LIFT or ACP. The duration of use of individual procedures since first publication was associated with success rate only in AFP (P = 0.027). There were no statistically significant differences in success rates relative to the number of the patients included in each study.

CONCLUSION

Success and adoption rates tend to decrease with time. Differences in patient selection, duration of follow-up, length of availability of the individual procedure and heterogeneity of treatment protocols contribute to the diverse results in the literature. Differences in success rates over time were evident, suggesting that both international trials and global best practice consensus are desirable. Further prospective randomized controlled trials with homogeneity and clear objective parameters would be needed to substantiate these findings.

The anal fistula plug in Crohn's disease patients with fistula-in-ano: a systematic review

AIM

This study aimed to review, consolidate and analyse the findings of studies investigating the efficacy of anal fistula plugs (AFPs) in treating fistula-in-ano in patients with Crohn's disease.

METHOD

A literature review was conducted via Pubmed, Embase, Medline, Scopus and the Cochrane Library for the period 1995-2015. Articles were selected and reviewed based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies were extracted, of which 12 were included in the systematic review. In total, 84 patients (n = 1-20 per study) with a median age of 45 (18-72) years and a median follow-up time of 9 (3-24) months were analysed. The total success rate, defined as closure of the fistula tract, was 49/84 (58.3%, 95% CI 47-69). Success in patients with recurrent anal fistulae was 2/5 (40%, 95% CI 5-85). Overall, the success rates of Surgisis and GORE BIO-A brand plugs were 48/80 (60%, 95% CI 48-71) and 1/4 (25%, 95% CI 1-81). The recurrence rate of fistula-in-ano in the five studies that reported recurrence was 3/22 (13.6%). In two comparative studies, inferior overall success rates were found in patients who received preoperative immunomodulators vs. those who did not [3/11 (27.3%) vs. 17/23 (73.9%)].

CONCLUSION

The studies suggest that the use of an AFP in patients with Crohn's disease is a safe procedure with reasonable success, little morbidity and a low risk of incontinence. The current literature is limited by a number of factors, including small study cohorts, grouping of fistulae in Crohn's disease with other types of anal fistula, short and highly variable follow-up times and multiple confounding factors such as number of fistula tracts, use of preoperative steroids or immunosuppressants, previous use of setons and variation in surgical technique.

Systematic review of evidence and consensus on perianal fistula: an analysis of national and international guidelines

AIM

Treatment of perianal fistula has evolved with the introduction of new techniques and biologicals in Crohn's disease (CD). Several guidelines are available worldwide, but many recommendations are controversial or lack high-quality evidence. The aim of this work was to provide an overview of the current available national and international guidelines for perianal fistula and to analyse areas of consensus and areas of conflicting recommendations, thereby identifying topics and questions for future research.

METHOD

MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed were systematically searched for guidelines on perianal fistula. Inclusion was limited to papers in English less than 10 years old. The included topics were classified as having consensus (unanimous recommendations in at least two-thirds of the guidelines) or controversy (fewer than three guidelines commenting on the topic or no consensus) between guidelines. The highest level of evidence was scored as sufficient (level 3a or higher of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence 2009, http://www.cebm.net/oxford-centre-evidence-based-medicine-levels-evidence-march-2009/) or insufficient.

RESULTS

Twelve guidelines were included and topics with recommendations were compared. Overall, consensus was present in 15 topics, whereas six topics were rated as controversial. Evidence levels varied from strong to lack of evidence.

CONCLUSION

Evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of perianal fistulae (cryptoglandular or related to CD) ranged from nonexistent to strong, regardless of consensus. The most relevant research questions were identified and proposed as topics for future research.

Rectovaginal Fistula: What Is the Optimal Strategy?: An Analysis of 79 Patients Undergoing 286 Procedures

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess results of surgery for rectovaginal fistula (RVF) and prognostic factors for success.

BACKGROUND DATA

Management of RVF remains challenging and numerous surgical options are available. Few large reports of RVF are available and success prognostic factors remain unknown.

METHODS

All patients operated for RVF from 1996 to 2014 were included.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine patients presented RVF due to Crohn disease in 34 (43%), postoperative in 25 (32%), obstetrical in 7 (9%), radiation proctitis in 4 (5%), and miscellaneous in 9 (11%). A total of 286 procedures (132 with associated stoma, 46%) were performed including 217 conservative (76%) [seton drainage (n = 59; 21%), vaginal (n = 49, 17%) or rectal advancement flap (n = 46; 16%), diverting stoma only (n = 27; 9%), plug (n = 15; 5%), glue (n = 13; 5%), or others (n = 8, 3%)]; and 69 major procedures (24%) [gracilis muscle interposition (n = 32; 11%), coloanal or colorectal anastomosis (n = 19; 7%) including 11 delayed anastomosis with colonic pull-through, biomesh interposition (n = 9, 3%), and abdominoperineal resection (n = 9; 3%)]. After a mean follow-up of 33 months, overall success rate was 57 of 79 (72%). Per-procedure-based multivariate analysis identified major procedure [odds ratio (OR): 6.4 (2.9-14.2); P < 0.001], diverting stoma [OR: 3.5 (1.4-8.7); P = 0.009], less than 9 months between diagnosis and first surgery [OR: 2.3 (1.1-5.3); P = 0.046], and first surgery in our institution [OR: 3.2 (1.5-6.9); P = 0.003], as independent factors for success.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggested that aggressive surgical treatment of RVF, including early use of temporary stoma and major procedure in case of failure of previous local treatment, leads to high success rates.

Fistula Plug in Fistulising Ano-Perineal Crohn's Disease: a Randomised Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Anal fistula plug [AFP] is a bioabsorbable bioprosthesis used in ano-perineal fistula treatment. We aimed to assess efficacy and safety of AFP in fistulising ano-perineal Crohn's disease [FAP-CD].

METHODS

In a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial we compared seton removal alone [control group] with AFP insertion [AFP group] in 106 Crohn's disease patients with non- or mildly active disease having at least one ano-perineal fistula tract drained for more than 1 month. Patients with abscess [collection ≥ 3mm on magnetic resonance imaging or recto-vaginal fistulas were excluded. Randomisation was stratified in simple or complex fistulas according to AGA classification. Primary end point was fistula closure at Week 12.

RESULTS

In all, 54 patients were randomised to AFP group [control group 52]. Median fistula duration was 23 [10-53] months. Median Crohn's Disease Activity Index at baseline was 81 [45-135]. Fistula closure at Week 12 was achieved in 31.5% patients in the AFP group and in 23.1 % in the control group (relative risk [RR] stratified on AGA classification: 1.31; 95% confidence interval: 0.59-4.02; p = 0.19). No interaction in treatment effect with complexity stratum was found; 33.3% of patients with complex fistula and 30.8% of patients with simple fistula closed the tracts after AFP, as compared with 15.4% and 25.6% in controls, respectively [RR of success = 2.17 in complex fistula vs RR = 1.20 in simple fistula; p = 0.45]. Concerning safety, at Week 12, 17 patients developed at least one adverse event in the AFP group vs 8 in the controls [p = 0.07].

CONCLUSION

AFP is not more effective than seton removal alone to achieve FAP-CD closure.

Long-term outcome after surgery for Crohn's anal fistula

AIM

Treatment of Crohn's anal fistula remains challenging and little is known about factors associated with healing. The aim of this study was to assess the rate of healing after surgical treatment and analyse clinical variables related to healing.

METHOD

A total of 119 patients [63 women, mean age 36 (±13.7) years] with histopathologically verified Crohn's disease underwent a surgical procedure for anal fistula at four main referral centres in Sweden, January 1998 to December 2009. Baseline and treatment-related variables were recorded and analysed for correlation with fistula healing at a final follow-up after a mean of 7.2 (median 7.1, 1.0-17.5) years.

RESULTS

Of the 119 patients 62 (52%) were healed at final follow-up. Fourteen healed after one procedure and the remaining 48 healed after a further median of 4.0 (2-20) procedures. Ten (8%) patients were subjected to a proctectomy. Final healing was more common in patients operated with a procedure aiming at eradicating the fistula (P = 0.0001), without proctitis (P = 0.02) and a shorter duration of Crohn's disease (P = 0.0019).

CONCLUSION

Long-term healing of a Crohn's anal fistula can be expected in about half of the patients, usually after repeated surgical treatment. The probability for cure was higher when a curative operation was performed in a patient without proctitis and with a shorter duration of Crohn's disease. An attempt to close a Crohn's anal fistula is thus often worthwhile.

Treatment of Fistula-In-Ano with Fistula Plug - a Review Under Special Consideration of the Technique

Introduction

In a recent Cochrane review, the authors concluded that there is an urgent need for well-powered, well-conducted randomized controlled trials comparing various modes of treatment of fistula-in-ano. Ten randomized controlled trials were available for analyses: There were no significant differences in recurrence rates or incontinence rates in any of the studied comparisons. The following article reviews the studies available for treatment of fistula-in-ano with a fistula plug with special attention paid to the technique.

Material and Methods

PubMed, Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane medical database were searched up to July 2015. Sixty-four articles were relevant for this review.

Results

Healing rates of 50–60% can be expected for treatment of complex anal fistula with a fistula plug, with a plug-extrusion rate of 10–20%. Such results can be achieved not only with plugs made of porcine intestinal submucosa but also those made of other biological or synthetic bioabsorbable mesh materials. Important technical steps are firm suturing of the head of the plug in the primary opening and wide drainage of the secondary opening.

Discussion

Treatment of a complex fistula-in-ano with a fistula plug is an option with a success rate of 50–60% with low complication rate. Further improvements in technique and better studies are needed.

Percutaneous treatment of a duodenocutaneous high-flow fistula using a new biological plug

Enterocutaneous fistula is a challenging entity and a gold-standard treatment is not settled so far. Here, we describe the successful closure of a duodenocutaneous fistula with the use of the Biodesign enterocutaneous fistula plug (Cook Medical), which is derived from a biological plug that has been used in recent years in order to close anorectal fistula tracts.

Particular aspects of proctology for anoperineal lesions in Crohn's disease

All practitioners caring for patients with Crohn's disease (CD) must know all the various aspects of anoperineal lesions in this singular entity. Suppuration in CD does not follow the classic routes and spaces of diffusion and is often associated with endolumenal lesions that can evolve on their own. Abscesses and fistulas require specific medico-surgical management where seton drainage, staged operative and sphincter-sparing procedures have a dominant place. The variability of associated lesions and the particularly individualized efficacy of drugs call for case-by-case management, thus, making standardization and comparisons difficult. Recent therapeutic progress has led to modifications of the minimally invasive management policies practiced in the last decades.

Management of perianal fistulas in Crohn’s disease: An up-to-date review

Perianal disease is one of the most disabling manifestations of Crohn’s disease. A multidisciplinary approach of gastroenterologist, colorectal surgeon and radiologist is necessary for its management. A correct diagnosis, based on endoscopy, magnetic resonance imaging, endoanal ultrasound and examination under anesthesia, is crucial for perianal fistula treatment. Available medical and surgical therapies are discussed in this review, including new local treatment modalities that are under investigation.

Biomaterials in the treatment of anal fistula: hope or hype?

Anal fistula (AF) presents a chronic problem for patients and colorectal surgeons alike. Surgical treatment may result in impairment of continence and long-term risk of recurrence. Treatment options for AFs vary according to their location and complexity. The ideal approach should result in low recurrence rates and minimal impact on continence. New technical approaches involving biologically derived products such as biological mesh, fibrin glue, fistula plug, and stem cells have been applied in the treatment of AF to improve outcomes and decrease recurrence rates and the risk of fecal incontinence. In this review, we will highlight the current evidence and describe our personal experience with these novel approaches.

A global consensus on the classification, diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment of perianal fistulising Crohn's disease

OBJECTIVE

To develop a consensus on the classification, diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment of perianal fistulising Crohn's disease (pCD), based on best available evidence.

METHODS

Based on a systematic literature review, statements were formed, discussed and approved in multiple rounds by the 20 working group participants. Consensus was defined as at least 80% agreement among voters. Evidence was assessed using the modified GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) criteria.

RESULTS

Highest diagnostic accuracy can only be established if a combination of modalities is used. Drainage of sepsis is always first line therapy before initiating immunosuppressive treatment. Mucosal healing is the goal in the presence of proctitis. Whereas antibiotics and thiopurines have a role as adjunctive treatments in pCD, anti-tumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF) is the current gold standard. The efficacy of infliximab is best documented although adalimumab and certolizumab pegol are moderately effective. Oral tacrolimus could be used in patients failing anti-TNF therapy. Definite surgical repair is only of consideration in the absence of luminal inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a multidisciplinary approach, items relevant for fistula management were identified and algorithms on diagnosis and treatment of pCD were developed.

Fistulizing Crohn's disease: Diagnosis and management

Fistulizing Crohn's disease represents an evolving, yet unresolved, issue for multidisciplinary management. Perianal fistulas are the most frequent findings in fistulizing Crohn's disease. While enterocutaneous fistulas are rare, they are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Detailed evaluation of the fistula tract by advanced imaging techniques is required to determine the most suitable management options. The fundamentals of perianal fistula management are to evaluate the complexity of the fistula tract, and exclude proctitis and associated abscess. The main goals of the treatment are abscess drainage, which is mandatory, before initiating immunosuppressive medical therapy, resolution of fistula discharge, preservation of continence and, in the long term, avoidance of proctectomy with permanent stoma. The management of enterocutaneous fistulas comprises of sepsis control, skin care, nutritional optimization and, if needed, delayed surgery.

Long-term outcome of the anal fistula plug for anal fistula of cryptoglandular origin

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcome of the anal fistula plug in the treatment of anal fistula of cryptoglandular origin.

METHOD

A review of all patients who had at least one anal fistula plug inserted from March 2007 to August 2008 was performed. Only anal fistulae of cryptoglandular origin were included. Success was defined as the closure of the external opening with no further purulent discharge or collection.

RESULTS

Thirty anal fistula plugs were inserted in 26 patients [median age 40 (26-70) years]. Twenty-six of the fistulae were transsphincteric and three were suprasphincteric. One patient had a high intersphincteric fistula, which was the only fistula that did not have a seton inserted. The median duration between seton insertion and the plug procedure was 12 (4-28) weeks. The median length of the fistula tract was 3 (1-7.5) cm. After a median follow-up of 59 (13-97) weeks, 26 (86.7%) fistulae recurred. Of the 26 failures, the median time to failure was 8 (2-54) weeks. Subsequent surgical interventions were performed in 20 of the failures.

CONCLUSION

The role of the fistula plug in the management of anal fistula of cryptoglandular origin remains debatable and warrants further evaluation.