Botulinum toxin injection in outpatients for chronic anal fissure

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of botulinum toxin (BT) injection on fissure healing in the treatment of chronic anal fissure (CAF) in outpatient conditions without any analgesia and sedation to the internal anal sphincter (IAS). The primary outcome measure was post-procedural pain. The secondary outcome measures were fissure healing and complications.

METHODS

Prospectively preserved data of 67 patients who received BT injections for CAF were analyzed prospectively. Demographic data, duration of symptomatic improvement, fissure location and number, parity, post-procedural pain, complications, continence status, response to treatment, and duration of follow-up were examined. Participants received bilateral (50 + 50 units) BT injections into the internal anal sphincter (IAS) in an outpatient setting.

RESULTS

Symptomatic improvement was observed in 58% of patients within 1 week. The complete response rate to treatment was 82% at a mean follow-up of 6 months. Patients with partial response to treatment (10%) were successfully treated with topical therapy, and patients with persisting fissures (8%) were successfully treated with partial lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS). 14 patients (21%) reported some degree of transient incontinence at follow-up. Multiparous women experienced more symptoms of Incontinence (p = 0.00). Pre- and post-procedural Vas Score median values were 4. The 7th-week VAS score median value was 3.

CONCLUSION

Dysport injection under sedation-free outpatient conditions is an effective and safe alternative to LIS for the treatment of CAF, with tolerable procedural pain. All patients should be warned of transient incontinence.

Surgeons' practice and preferences for the anal fissure treatment: results from an international survey

The best nonoperative or operative anal fissure (AF) treatment is not yet established, and several options have been proposed. Aim is to report the surgeons' practice for the AF treatment. Thirty-four multiple-choice questions were developed. Seven questions were about to participants' demographics and, 27 questions about their clinical practice. Based on the specialty (general surgeon and colorectal surgeon), obtained data were divided and compared between two groups. Five-hundred surgeons were included (321 general and 179 colorectal surgeons). For both groups, duration of symptoms for at least 6 weeks is the most important factor for AF diagnosis (30.6%). Type of AF (acute vs chronic) is the most important factor which guide the therapeutic plan (44.4%). The first treatment of choice for acute AF is ointment application for both groups (59.6%). For the treatment of chronic AF, this data is confirmed by colorectal surgeons (57%), but not by the general surgeons who prefer the lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) (31.8%) (p = 0.0001). Botulin toxin injection is most performed by colorectal surgeons (58.7%) in comparison to general surgeons (20.9%) (p = 0.0001). Anal flap is mostly performed by colorectal surgeons (37.4%) in comparison to general surgeons (28.3%) (p = 0.0001). Fissurectomy alone is statistically significantly most performed by general surgeons in comparison to colorectal surgeons (57.9% and 43.6%, respectively) (p = 0.0020). This analysis provides useful information about the clinical practice for the management of a debated topic such as AF treatment. Shared guidelines and consensus especially focused on operative management are required to standardize the treatment and to improve postoperative results.

Mucosal vs. cutaneous advancement flaps for the treatment of chronic anal fissures: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare two surgical treatment methods for chronic anal fissures (CAF), mucosal advancement flap anoplasty (MAFA) and cutaneous advancement flap anoplasty (CAFA).

METHODS

A randomized, blinded clinical trial was conducted on patients with CAF refractory to medical treatment referred to a tertiary-level hospital between January 2021 and December 2022. The patients were assigned to two groups by block randomization and were compared in terms of outcome, pain reduction, and complications.

RESULTS

There were 30 patients (male to female ratio 2:3, median age 42 years [range 25-59 years]). Both techniques reduced anal pain significantly (p = 0.001); however, there were no significant differences between MAFA and CAFA groups in recurrence, duration of healing, postoperative pain, and postoperative bleeding. No patient suffered from fecal incontinence (Wexner score = 0) or flap necrosis postoperatively. Only two patients in the MAFA group (1 and 3 months after surgery) and one patient in the CAFA group (2 months after surgery) had recurrence (total recurrence rate = 10%, healing rate = 90%). All of the patients were satisfied with their surgical results.

CONCLUSION

Mucosal and cutaneous anal advancement flap techniques are effective and comparable surgical procedures for the treatment of chronic anal fissures with minimal complications, fast healing process, and minimal postoperative pain and complications.

CLINICAL TRIAL ID

IRCT20120129008861N4 ( www.irct.ir ).

The effect of Caudal Epidural Injection on healing in the treatment of chronic anal fissure

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissure is called the reaching the muscle layer under the skin by deepening of the fissure in the breech skin. Our purpose is to enable the tissue to heal by relaxing the anal sphincter with caudal epidural injection.

METHODS

One hundred twenty cases were included in this randomized, controlled study. The cases were categorized into 2 groups; Under ultrasound guidance, the first group, caudal epidural injection group (Group CE, n = 60) was treated with 5 cc bupivakain + 5 cc isotonic from a caudal epidural for a total of 3 sessions at the beginning, 1 week and 2 weeks later; the second group, control group (Group C, n = 60) were provided medical treatment (cream, pill etc.) every day for 2 weeks. Wexner's constipation score was used to assess constipation severity and visual analog scale was used to assess pain severity. Short Form-36 was used to determine the patient's quality of life.

RESULTS

This study was conducted with 2 groups of 60 people and a total of 120 patients. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of demographic characteristics (age, body mass index, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologist, mean blood pressure, heart rate) (P > .05). Out of the detected fissures, 32 (26.7%) were located anteriorly and 88 (73.3%) were located posteriorly. The groups were statistically same in terms of fissure location (P = .423). When groups were compared with pain, Wexner constipation and visual analog scale scores decreased significantly in Group CE compared to Group C after 2.and 3.sessions (P = .001 and P = .002, respectively). In Group CE, the Short Form-36 subscales increased significantly (P = .003).

CONCLUSION

Caudal epidural injection has a potential to be an alternative treatment option for chronic anal fissure.

Platelet-rich plasma improves acute and chronic anal fissure, a randomized control trial

Anal fissure is one of the most prevalent diagnosis in patients with anorectal symptoms. Depending on the chronicity, treatment choices vary, from topical and conservative management to operative ones. PRP is a blood-derived product with a three to five-fold platelet count and can be used for restorative purposes. The objective of this study is to assess the therapeutic effect of intralesional PRP in acute and chronic anal fissures and comparing it with the classic topical approach. We included 94 patients with acute and chronic anal fissures and divided them into intervention and control groups. Control patients were treated only with topical compounds, and the intervention group received one dose of intralesional autologous PRP plus the same classic treatment. We assessed patients 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months later. The mean pain score in the intervention group was significantly lower than control groups in all visits (p-value <0.001). During the follow-ups, the bleeding rate was significantly lower in the intervention group, so in the sixth month, the bleeding was 4% in the intervention group against 32% of the control (p-value <0.001). The healing rate assessed by examination was 96% in the intervention group against 66% in the control in the sixth month (p-value <0.001). Although there may be no significant difference in healing rate between groups in the acute anal fissure, the PRP group is significantly superior in the chronic setting. We concluded that in anal fissure treatment, PRP plus topical products are significantly superior to alone topical treatment.

Efficacy and safety of Propionibacterium extract gel versus glyceryl trinitrate ointment in the treatment of chronic anal fissure: a randomized controlled trial

AIM

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) is an extremely frequent finding in clinical practice. Several topical agents have been proposed for its treatment with the common goal of increasing anodermal blood flow to promote healing. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of a Propionibacterium extract gel (PeG) and 0.4% glyceryl trinitrate ointment (GTN) in patients with CAF.

METHOD

Patients were randomly allocated to a PeG or GTN group and medication was administered every 12 h for 40 days. The primary outcome was the success rate, as measured by a decrease in the REALISE scoring system for anal fissure at 10, 20 and 40 days after initiating either treatment. The secondary outcomes recorded at the same time points were healing rate, visual analogue scales for itching and burning, rate of complications and adverse events, patient quality of life and satisfaction, and cost analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patients were enrolled, and 96 patients (PeG, n = 53; GTN, n = 43) completed the primary outcomes. A significant decrease over time in the REALISE score was observed in both groups. Adverse events occurred more frequently in the GTN group than in the PeG group, peaking at visit 1 [37 (63.8%) vs. 2 (3.4%), respectively], with headache being the most prevalent. The between-treatment cumulative average costs per patient were significantly higher for GTN than that for PeG at each follow-up visit. There were no other significant differences between the two groups for any of the other outcomes.

CONCLUSION

While there was no difference in healing rates between the two treatments, PeG was more cost-effective and associated with fewer adverse events.

The Value of Injection Therapy with Botulinum Toxin in Pain Treatment of Primary Chronic Anal Fissures Compared to Anal Dilation, and Local Nifedipine in Combination with Lidocaine

Introduction: Anal fissure is a longitudinal tear of the mucosa of the anal canal extending from the outer anal orifice in the direction of the dentate line of the inner anal opening. Fissures are divided into primary and secondary, and acute or chronic. Besides minimal rectal bleeding, itching and soiling, primary chronic anal fissures (PCAF) manifest with anal pain as theirs main determinant. It is described as the most troubling symptom. Aim: To compare the effect of injection therapy with botulinum toxin A (ITBT) vs. anal dilation (AD), and local nifedipine with lidocaine (LNL) in pain treatment of PCAF. Materials and Methods: This controlled retrospective prospective longitudinal study covered 94 patients, divided in 3 groups. The first was treated with ITBT, the second with AD and third using LNL (31, 33 and 30 patients respectively). Clostridium botulinum toxin A was used, dissolved with saline to concentration of 200 U/ml. The solution was applied to both sides of PCAF at dose of 40U. Modified technique of AD was done using 3 fingers of a single hand, progressively introduced into the anal canal, followed by gradual lateral distraction during 1 min. LNL therapy was conducted using nifedipine (0.3%) with lidocaine (1.5%) ointment, applied twice daily for 3 weeks. To measure pain, a visual analog scale (VAS) was used. The follow-up period was 12 weeks with checkup at week 4. Results: The median age of participants was 46.6±13.9 years (50 males vs. 44 females). The type of therapy had a significantly different effect on pain at week 4 (p=0.0003). Severe pain was present in only 2 ITBT patients, 16 AD, and 6 LNL patients. Post hoc analyses showed different pain disappearance time by week 12 (p <0.0001). The mean time was shortest in ITBT group (6.1±1.5 weeks). Anal pain intensity significantly differed among the 3 groups (Fisher exact, p=0.002). Namely, 71% in ITBT group rated the pain as weakest (VAS score 1) compared to 18.2% in AD and 30% of patients in LNL group. The overall pain reduction significance was in favor of ITBT, due to the differences between the ITBT and AD groups (p=0.00024) and ITBT compared to LNL group (p=0.018). Conclusion: ITBT is superior to AD and LNL in reducing pain in PCAF.

Clinical Outcomes of Medical Management Options for Chronic Anal Fissures in a Long-Term Follow-up: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Topical treatments and botulinum toxin injections are valid options for the management of patients with chronic anal fissures (CAF), but little is known about the efficacy of these techniques in long-term follow-up. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness, given to clinical outcomes, of medical treatments with calcium antagonists, nitroglycerin, and botulinum toxin on CAF treatment in adults.

METHOD

A systemic review and meta-analysis developed according to PRISMA [PLoS Med. 2009 Jul 21;6(7):e1000100; BMJ. 2010 Mar 23;340:c332] and registered in PROSPERO (Registration number: CRD42020120386). A systematic literature search was conducted through MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. Randomized control trials that compared medical treatment were identified; publications had to have a clinical definition of CAF with at least one of the following signs or symptoms: visible sphincter fibers at the base of the fissure, anal papillae, sentinel piles, and indurated margins. The symptoms had to be chronic for at least 4 weeks. Data were independently extracted for each study, and a meta-analysis was drawn using fixed- and random-effects models.

RESULTS

17 randomized trials met the inclusion criteria. Diltiazem showed a superior effect compared with glycerin (RR = 1.16 [95% CI = 1.05-1.30]; I2 = 18%) and with fewer adverse effects (RR = 0.13 [95% CI = 0.04-0.042]; I2 = 87%). Similar results were evidenced with the use of nifedipine compared with lidocaine (RR = 4.53 [95% CI = 2.99-6.86]; I2 = 28%). Botulinum toxin did not show statistically significant differences compared to glycerin (RR = 0.81 [95% CI = 0.02-29.36]; I2 = 93%) or isosorbide dinitrate (RR = 1.45 [95% CI = 0.32-6.54]; I2 = 85%). Regarding recurrence, nifedipine was superior to lidocaine (RR = 0.18 [95% CI = 0.08-0.44]; I2 = 31%).

CONCLUSIONS

Calcium channel blockers performed well regarding the healing of CAF when compared to others in long-term follow-up. The superiority of botulinum toxin was not evidenced compared to topical treatments. More studies are needed to better assess recurrence rates.

Pelvic floor physical therapy in patients with chronic anal fissure: long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissure is a common benign anorectal disease with a high recurrence rate. Pelvic floor physical therapy has been proven effective in the short-term management in patients with chronic anal fissure and pelvic floor dysfunction (PAF-trial). The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of the PAF-trial and fissure recurrence in patients who completed the 2 months of pelvic floor physical therapy at 1-year follow-up.

METHODS

Electromyographic registration of the pelvic floor, digital rectal examination, visual analog scales, patient-related outcome measurements, and quality of life were assessed at baseline and at 1-year after inclusion. The primary outcome was muscle tone at rest during electromyographic registration of the pelvic floor at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes contained fissure recurrence, pain ratings, pelvic floor dysfunction, complaint reduction measured with a proctology specific patient-reported outcome measurement, and quality of life.

RESULTS

The treatment protocol was followed by 137 patients. Ninety-seven patients (71%) completed the 1-year follow-up, 48 women (49.5%) and 49 men (50.5%) with a mean age of 44.4 ± 11.6 years (range 19-68). In the total group of patients, mean resting electromyographic values of the pelvic floor significantly improved from baseline to follow-up at 1 year (mean estimated difference 2.20 μV; 95% CI, 1.79 to 2.61; p < 0.001). After 1 year, the fissure recurred in 15 patients (15.5%). VAS-pain significantly decreased from baseline to follow-up (mean estimated difference 4.16; 95% CI, 3.75 to 4.58; p < 0.001). Dyssynergia was found in 72.9% at baseline and decreased to 14.4% at 1-year follow-up (p < 0.001). Complaint reduction measured with the Proctoprom significantly improved from baseline to 1-year follow-up (p < 0.001). Quality of life (RAND-36) significantly improved in eight of nine domains at 1-year follow-up. No significant improvement was found in the domain vitality.

CONCLUSIONS

In the PAF-trial, we demonstrated that pelvic floor physical therapy yields a significant and clinical benefit in the time course and therefore should be advocated as adjuvant conservative treatment in patients with chronic anal fissure.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial is registered at the Dutch Trial registry (NTR7581)  https://trialsearch.who.int.

Clinical Outcome of 0.2% Glyceryl Trinitrate Topical Ointment Compared to Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy in the Treatment of Patient with Chronic Anal Fissure: A Randomized Control Trial

The objective of study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of topical 0.2% Glyceryl trinitrate topical (GTN) ointment in the treatment of chronic anal fissure. This randomized control trial was carried out in the Colorectal Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh from May 2015 to April 2016. Total 94 patients were included in this trial, where 47(50.0%) patients were treated by 0.2% GTN ointment as Trial group 12 hourly for 8 weeks and 47(50.0%) patients by lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) as Control group in this study. Patients were randomized in two groups by lottery following purposive sampling. Post-procedural outcome variables with 6 months follow up were evaluated. Majority of the patients were found in between 20 to 40 years of age in both groups. The mean age was 34.6±10.4 years and 33.2±8.6 years in GTN and LIS respectively. Overall male female ratio was 0.88:1. All (100.0%) patients presented with pain in anus and 86.15% patients presented with per rectal bleeding. Pain relief in GTN arm versus LIS arm in 2nd and 6th week was 55.31% vs. 76.6%, 74.5% vs. 87.23% with no significant difference between two groups. But at 6 month it was 57.44% vs. 93.6% respectively. The fall in pain relief at 6th month in GTN arm was due to recurrence of fissure. At the end of 2nd, 6th week and 6month, cessation of bleeding improved gradually in both groups after treatment but the improvement was significantly better in LIS group than in GTN group indicating sphincterotomy stops bleeding better. Healing after 2nd week in both groups was minimum but equal 2(4.26%) patients. After 6 weeks LIS group had significant better healing than GTN 40(85.1%) versus 26(55.3%) with p value <0.001. In 6 month time GTN group had increased healing but LIS group had significant better healing than GTN group 42(89.36) vs. 32(68.08) with p value 0.004. Transient flatus and liquid incontinence were 8.51% and 6.4% respectively in LIS group with 0.0% in GTN group. Headache and recurrence were significantly higher in GTN group 61.7% and 34.04% with p<0.001. Lateral internal anal sphincterotomy is superior to the topical application of 0.2% nitroglycerin ointment in the treatment of chronic anal fissure with the advantages of good symptomatic relief, high rate of healing and a very low rate of transient continence disturbances.

Botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of chronic anal fissure: uni- and multivariate analysis of the factors that promote healing

PURPOSE

Anal fissure is caused by a pathological contraction of the internal anal sphincter. Lateral internal sphincterotomy remains the gold standard for the treatment of fissure. Botulinum toxin injections have been proposed to treat this condition without any risk of permanent injury of the internal sphincter. We investigate clinical and pathological variables and the effects of different dosage regimens of botulinum toxin to induce healing in patients with idiopathic anal fissure.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study at a single center. The patients underwent a pre-treatment evaluation that included clinical inspection of the fissure and anorectal manometry. We collected and analyzed demographic data, pathological variables, associated pathological conditions, and treatment variables. Success was defined as healing of the fissure, and improvement of symptoms was defined as asymptomatic persistent fissure.

RESULTS

The findings of 1003 patients treated with botulinum toxin injections were reported. At 2 months evaluation, complete healing was evident in 780 patients (77.7%). Resting anal tone (77.1 ± 18.9 mmHg) was significantly lower from baseline (P < 0.0001) and from 1-month value (P = 0.0008). Thirty-nine not healed patients underwent lateral internal sphincterotomy, and 184 were re-treated with 50 UI of botulinum toxin. In these patients, the healing rate was 93.9% (171 patients). Dose and injection site of toxin correlates with healing rate. There were no relapses during an average of about 71 months.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that injection of botulinum toxin into the internal anal sphincter is a safe and effective alternative to surgery in patients with chronic anal fissure.

Surgical Sphincter Saving Approach and Topical Nifedipine for Chronic Anal Fissure with Hypertonic Internal Anal Sphincter

PURPOSE

The role of augmented internal anal sphincter (IAS) tone in the genesis of posterior chronic anal fissure (CAPF) is still unknown. Lateral internal sphincterotomy is the most employed surgical procedure, nevertheless it is burdened by high risk post-operative anal incontinence. The aim of our study is to evaluate results of sphincter saving procedure with post-operative pharmacological sphincterotomy for patients affected by CAPF with IAS hypertonia. Methods: We enrolled 30 patients, undergone fissurectomy and anoplasty with V-Y cutaneous flap advancement; all patients received topical administration of nifedipine 0.3% and lidocaine 1.5% ointment-based therapy before and for 15 days after surgery. The primary goal was patient's complete healing and the evaluation of incontinence and recurrence rate; the secondary goal included the evaluation of manometry parameters, symptom relief and complications related to nifedipine and lidocaine administration. Results: All wounds healed within 40 days after surgery. We didn't observe any de novo postoperative anal incontinence case. We reported 2 cases of recurrences, healed after conservative therapy. We didn't report any local complications related to the administration of the ointment therapy; with whom all patients reported a good compliance. Conclusions: Fissurectomy and anoplasty with V-Y cutaneous advancement flap and topical administration of nifedipine and lidocaine, is an effective treatment for CAPF with IAS hypertonia.

Topical 5% minoxidil versus topical 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate in treatment of chronic anal fissure: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) is a common painful anal condition. Medical treatment of CAF involves the use of agents that induce chemical sphincterotomy. The present trial aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of topical minoxidil and glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) preparations in treatment of CAF.

METHODS

Adult patients with CAF were randomly assigned to one of two equal groups; group I received topical 5% minoxidil gel and group II received topical 0.2% GTN cream. The main outcome measures were healing of anal fissure, duration to healing, relief of symptoms, and adverse effects.

RESULTS

62 patients (36 female and 26 male) were included to the study. Group I comprised 30 patients and group II comprised 32 patients. Healing of anal fissure was achieved in 23 (76.7%) patients in group I and 15 (46.9%) patients in group II (p = 0.03). The average duration to healing in group I was significantly shorter than group II (4.1 ± 1.9 vs 5.3 ± 2.7 weeks, p = 0.048). Adverse effects were recorded in 2 (6.6%) patients in group I and 13 (40.6%) patients in group II. The post-treatment pain score in the GTN group was significantly lower than the Minoxidil group.

CONCLUSION

Topical 5% minoxidil gel achieved greater and quicker healing of CAF and fewer adverse effects than topical 0.2% GTN cream. Post-treatment pain scores after GTN were significantly lower than minoxidil.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03528772.

[Experience of using an individual approach in the anal fissures treatment]

AIM

To objectify the criteria for choosing the method of treatment of anal fissures, to determine the indications for surgery and sphincterotomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The results of treatment of 206 patients with chronic and acute anal fissures between the ages of 17 to 75 years are analyzed. The posterior anal fissure was detected in 175 (84.9%) patients, the front - in 18 (8.7%), the combination of fissures was noted 13 (6.3%) times. The history of the disease - from 1 month to 12 years. The examination included analysis of clinical data, indicators of pre- and postoperative anorectal manometry, endorectal ultrasound. The period of postoperative monitoring is from 6 to 12 months, control examinations with a functional study of the anal sphincters were carried out 1 and 2 months after healing. Concomitant hemorrhoids were noted in 65 (31.5%) patients, of which 20 (9.7%) patients were simultaneously hemorrhoidectomized. In 11 (5.3%) patients, simultaneous operations were performed in the presence of paraproctitis, rectal fistula.

RESULTS

In 77.8% of patients with acute fissures, the use of conservative therapy, which included myotropic antispasmodics and local application of glycerol trinitrate made it possible to achieve healing of fissures without surgery. Operated 185 (89.8%) patients. With an increase in the basal anal pressure at the level of the internal sphincter, an increase in the average pressure in the anal canal, a decrease in the amplitude and duration of the rectoanal reflex, the indications for dosed sphincterotomy were determined in 167 patients. At the same time, in 117 persons, the excision of fissures was supplemented with a lateral 'closed' sphincterotomy, in 50 cases the posterior 'open' dosed sphincterotomy was performed. In 18 (9.7% of the operated ones) patients in the absence of sphincter hypertonus, the fissures were excised without sphincterotomy. The best functional results were obtained after performing the lateral 'closed' subcutaneous sphincterotomy. It was noticed that in the absence of characteristic complaints and clinical manifestations of incontinence, in 14 patients there was a decrease in the average pressure in the anal canal at rest and with volitional contraction. At the same time, 6 patients out of 14 belonged to the older age groups, and in 9 women there was a rectocele, pelvic floor prolapse. Postoperative incontinence was not observed. Recovery with complete epithelialization of the anoderm defect and the absence of complaints was achieved in 191 (92.7%) patients, satisfactory results (healing of fissures in the presence of pain or proctitis) - in 8 (3.9%) and in 7 (3.4%) patients relapse of the disease was noted with the ineffectiveness of therapy.

CONCLUSION

The ineffectiveness of complex conservative treatment for more than two weeks, with a history of more than 3 months, is an indication for surgical treatment. Preoperative functional and clinical and physiological examination of patients allows the formation of surgical tactics. A differentiated approach to the choice of treatment method, as well as individual determination of indications for surgery and sphincterotomy can improve long-term results. The technique of simultaneous operations with the combination of anal fissure and other proctological diseases needs to be improved.

Topical Minoxidil Versus Topical Diltiazem for Chemical Sphincterotomy of Chronic Anal Fissure: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Anal fissure is a common anorectal problem causing severe pain and discomfort to the patients. Chemical sphincterotomy has emerged as a noninvasive alternative to the surgical methods of fissure treatment. The objective of this study was evaluation of the efficacy and the adverse effects of topically applied minoxidil in chemical sphincterotomy of chronic anal fissure in comparison with topical diltiazem.

METHODS

A total of 88 patients with chronic anal fissure aged between 15 and 65 years were included in this double-blind, randomized clinical trial and were randomly assigned to either 0.5% minoxidil cream or 2% diltiazem cream twice daily for 2 weeks. The pain intensity, bleeding, wound healing, itching, headache, dizziness, significant drop in blood pressure, allergy and fissure relapse were assessed on a monthly basis for 2 months.

RESULTS

Both diltiazem and minoxidil reduced the pain, bleeding and improved fissure healing with no significant difference. There were no between-groups differences in the frequencies of adverse effects, except for itching which was slightly higher with minoxidil during the first month. Allergy occurred in two patients in the minoxidil group, which was not severe and did not lead to discontinuation of the trial.

CONCLUSION

Topically administered minoxidil is of equal efficacy as diltiazem in the treatment of chronic anal fissure with low frequency of adverse effects. Thus, it can be considered as an agent for chemical sphincterotomy of anal fissure, but the itching at the beginning of the treatment can affect the adherence of the patient to treatment. Trial registration number IRCT2015041414483N6 (the full trial protocol could be accessed online at www.irct.ir ).

Bilateral versus unilateral botulinum toxin injections for chronic anal fissure: a randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Botulinum toxin injected into the internal anal sphincter is used in the treatment of chronic anal fissure but there is no standardised technique for its administration. This randomised single centre trial compares bilateral (either side of fissure) to unilateral injection.

METHODS

Participants were randomised to receive bilateral (50 + 50 units) or unilateral (100 units) Dysport® injections into the internal anal sphincter in an outpatient setting. Injection-related pain assessed by visual analogue scale was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcomes were healing rate, fissure pain, incontinence, and global health scores.

RESULTS

Between October 2008 and April 2012, 100 patients with chronic anal fissure were randomised to receive bilateral or unilateral injections. Injection-related pain was comparable in both groups. There was no difference in healing rate. Initially, there was greater improvement in fissure pain in the bilateral group but at 1 year the unilateral group showed greater improvement. Cleveland Clinic Incontinence score was lower in the unilateral group in the early post-treatment period and global health assessment (EuroQol EQ-VAS) was higher in the unilateral group at 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Injection-related pain was similar in bilateral and unilateral injection groups. Unilateral injection was as effective as bilateral injections in healing and improving fissure pain without any deterioration in continence.

Perianal ulcerative skin tuberculosis: A case report

RATIONALE

Ulcerative skin tuberculosis (TB) is a rare form of extrapulmonary TB.

CASE REPORT

We present a case of a 65-year-old patient with perianal ulcer, which had been present for 1 year. Anamnesis revealed he had been persistently coughing for the same period of time. Histological examination of perianal skin showed necrotizing granulomatous lesions, acid-fast staining in sputum samples was ++++, TB antibody in the blood was positive, TB DNA test was positive, and chest scan that showed secondary pulmonary TB accompanied by possible pulmonary cavity formation in the 2 upper lungs.

INTERVENTIONS

Anti-TB therapy with isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide for 6 months. The skin ulcer completely healed after 6 months.

CONCLUSION

TB should be suspected for nonhealing ulcers. Pertinent studies should be done early during the lesion; finally, TB treatment should be initiated immediately after diagnosis is made.

Comparison of Flavonoids and Centella asiatica for the treatment of chronic anal fissure. A randomized clinical trial

AIMS

We aim to test and compare the effects of Flavonoids (Fs) and Centella asiatica (Ca), and the traditional treatment to find out which best deals with healing time, bleeding and pain in the treatment of chronic Anal Fissure (AF). Materials of Study: 98 outpatients were divided randomly into treated (either Fs or Ca) and control group. The control group (Group C, n=32) received the traditional treatment along with the other two subgroups which were treated, additionally, with Fs (Group A, n=30) or Ca (Group B, n=36). Patients were observed once weekly over 8 consecutive weeks.

RESULTS

The median time to stop bleeding in the group A was 1 week, in the Group B was 3 weeks and in the group C was 4 weeks. There were significant differences between Groups in terms of time to end bleeding (A vs B: p-value= 0.022; A vs C: p-value<0.001; B vs C: p-value=0.070). As for pain score from baseline to the 2nd week were statistically different between Groups A and B on the one hand and Group C on the other hand (A vs C: p-value=0.004; B vs C: p-value 0.035). All patients healed within 8th week.

DISCUSSION

Either patients treated with Fs or Ca experienced early pain disappearance. Fs and Ca did not show side effects CONCLUSIONS: The treatment with Fs is the most effective for bleeding. Patients additionally treated with either Fs or Ca experienced an earlier healing and disappearance of pain in comparison with patients underwent to the traditional treatment.

KEY WORDS

Anal bleeding, Anal fissure, Defecation pain.

Increasing efficacy and reducing side effects in treatment of chronic anal fissures: A study of topical diazepam therapy

This is a single institution nonexperimental study intended to analyze the therapeutic efficacy of topical diazepam in treating symptoms of chronic anal fissures.Anal fissures are a common cause of anal pain. Conventional treatments include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, topical creams, such as nitroglycerin and nifedipine, and surgery. However, these treatments are usually suboptimally efficacious or have deterring side effects.Patients at an outpatient community center with a diagnosis of a chronic anal fissure were prescribed either topical 2% (n = 19) or 4% (n = 18) diazepam cream between January 2013 and February 2015. We retrospectively analyzed their responses to treatment.All 19 patients using 2% diazepam cream experienced a positive response in pain, whereas 47.4% experienced a complete response, with a numerical rating scale (NRS) score of 0 (0-10). Eighty-eight percent of patients using 4% dose had a positive response in pain, whereas 23.5% experienced a complete response. Ninety-four percent of patients using 2% dose had a positive response in anal bleeding, whereas 68.8% experienced a complete response with an anal bleeding score (ABS) of 2 (2-9). Ninety-four percent of patients using 4% dose had a positive response in anal bleeding, whereas 64.7% experienced a complete response. Only 1 patient reported a side effect from diazepam cream-perianal pruritus.Both 2% and 4% topical diazepam provided significant pain and bleeding relief from chronic anal fissures that were refractory to conventional therapies. There were insignificant differences when assessing independent comparisons for pain and bleeding between the doses.

Myoxinol ointment for the treatment of acute fissure

Myoxinol is a complex of oligopeptides obtained from the seeds of Hibiscus esculentus used in cosmetic as natural alternative to botulin toxin. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of local myoxinol for the treatment of acute anal fissure. All the consecutive patients with acute fissure treated from January to June 2014 underwent 30 days of topical treatment (twice/day) with a mioxinol based ointment. Pain, symptomatic relief, fissure healing and re-epithelization, 1-year recurrence rate, subjective satisfaction and need for further treatments were evaluated. During the study period 157 patients were eligible for data analysis (91 males: 58%; mean age 38 years: range 17-83). Median anal pain score was 7.1 pre-treatment and 1.7 and 0.9 after 30 days and 12 months from treatment, respectively (p: 0.0001). After the treatment period complete healing was achieved in 103 patients (65.5%), relevant improvement in 31 (20%) and no improvement in 21 patients (13.5%). Overall efficacy rate was 85.5%. A significant difference was reported considering patients with pre-treatment VAS between 1-5 and 6-10 (p: 0.004). Twenty-nine patients (18.5%) required further treatments. Hydrolyzed Hibiscus esculentus extract was proven to be an effective and well-tolerated topical treatment for acute fissure, with a high healing rate, a significant reduction of pain and a low 1-year recurrence rate.

Outcome Of 0.2% Glyceryltrinitrate Cream Versus 2% Diltiazem Cream In The Treatment Of Chronic Anal Fissure

BACKGROUND

Anal fissure is a linear tear in the distal anal canal resulting from persistent hypertonia and spasm of the internal sphincter which results in mucosal ischemia. We have conducted a study in order to compare the outcome of 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate cream versus 2% diltiazem cream in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) was carried out in the Department of Surgical "B" unit, at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan from 15th June 2012 to 15th May 2015. One hundred and eighty-four patients who visited the outpatient department for the treatment of chronic anal fissure were included in the study. They were divided into two groups with 92 patients in each group. Patients in group "A" included those patients receiving topical glyceryl trinitrate and group "B" patients were those receiving topical diltiazem cream.

RESULTS

Out of 184 patients 66.3% were males, 33.7% were females. Mean age of the patients was 43.84±7.976 and mean duration of symptoms was 10.55±2.524. Overall outcome in terms of healing was 71.2%, among which 80.4% were from diltiazem group while 62% in glyceryl trinitrate group. Complete relief of pain was observed in 67.9%, 26.1% complained of mild pain and 5.4% complained of moderate pain. Only one patient in glyceryl trinitrate group complained with severe pain with no healing after one month of follow up. No statistical association was found between healing outcome and gender as well as age of the patients (p>0.05) although an association was found between healing outcome and duration of symptoms (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that diltiazem has better outcome in terms of healing of chronic anal fissure and reductions in symptoms, i.e., pain compared with glyceryl trinitrate.

Effectiveness of 0.2% Glyceryl Trinitrate and 0.5% Nifedipine in the Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure

INTRODUCTION

Anal fissure is an ischemic ulcer caused by combination of spasm of internal anal sphincter and poor blood supply to the posterior midline of anal canal. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Glyceryl Trinitrate and Nifedipine in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

METHODS

Ninety patients with symptomatic anal fissure in Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital are allocated for study in two groups of 45 each from March 2013 to April 2014. The patients are assigned alternatively to GTN group and Nifedipine group. All patients were assessed every week till 8 weeks in regards to headache, compliance, healing and recurrence. The patients who had complete healing in 8 weeks were further followed up for 6 weeks to detect recurrence.

RESULTS

Patients in the two groups were comparable in regard to demographic data (age and sex) as well as clinical factors. Headache was main complaint of patients using GTN in high percentage (16.6%) than complained by patients using topical Nifedipine (6.9%). This factor led to poor compliance with GTN compared with Nifedipine. Nifedipine showed better healing rate 82.5% compared with GTN 60%. Recurrence was comparable among the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Nifedipine ointment showed better results than GTN ointment in chronic anal fissure regarding headache, compliance, healing and recurrence in 6 weeks of follow up period after complete healing of fissure in 8 weeks.

Botulinum Toxin Injection for Treatment of Chronic Anal Fissure: Is There Any Dose-Dependent Efficiency? A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) is a linear split of the anoderm. The minimally invasive management of CAF such as botulinum toxin (BT) injection is recommended. However, the exact efficient dose of BT, number of injections per session and the injection sites are still debatable. The aim of this analysis was to assess the dose-dependent efficiency of botulinum toxin injection for CAF.

METHODS

PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched for terms: "anal fissure" AND "botulinum toxin." Studies published between October 1993 and May 2015 were included and had to meet the following criteria: (1) chronic anal fissure, (2) prospective character of the study, (3) used simple BT injection without any other interventions and (4) no previous treatment with BT.

RESULTS

A total of 1577 patients from 34 prospective studies used either Botox or Dysport formulations were qualified for this meta-analysis. A total number of BT units per session ranged from 5 to 150 IU, whereas the efficiency across analyzed studies ranged from 33 to 96 %. Surprisingly, we did not observe a dose-dependent efficiency (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.060; p = 0.0708). Moreover, there were no BT dose-dependent postoperative complications or fecal incontinence and significant difference in healing rates compared BT injection into the anal sphincter muscles.

CONCLUSIONS

BT injection has been an accepted method for the management of CAF. Surprisingly, there is no dose-dependent efficiency, and the postoperative incontinence rate is not related to the BT dosage regardless the type of formulation of botulinum neurotoxin used. Moreover, no difference in healing rate has been observed in regard to the site and number of injections per session.

Comparison of Fissure Healing and The Incidence of Headache Among the Patients Treated with Endo- and Perianal Application of 0.2% Glyceryl Trinitrate for Chronic Anal Fissure

INTRODUCTION

Chronic anal fissure is associated with significant morbidity and reduction in quality of life mostly in young healthy adults. Glyceryl Trinitrate, a most commonly used agent for treatment, is associated with incidence of headache causing discontinuation of treatment. There is belief that endoanal application instead of perianal is associated with lower incidence of headache. This study is to compare the incidence and severity of headache in between perianal and endoanal application of GTN ointment.

METHODS

Thirty patients were taken in each perianal and endoanal group. They were given orientation to apply 375gm of ointment either endoanally or perianally and to record severity of headache according to visual analogue scale. This record was noted by independent observer in telephonic conversation. Patients were followed up at 6 weeks for evaluation fissure.

RESULTS

The mean age, male female ratio and features of chronicity was similar in both the group however the duration of symptoms between the group was different. Regarding outcome, Overall incidence of headache was seen in two-third of patient with severe headache in approx. 10%. Severity of headache was slightly lower in endoanal group but the difference was not significant. Healing rate was comparable. Two patient in perianal and 3 in endoanal group were lost for follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoanal application of GTN ointment is associated with slight decrease in intensity of headache and is comparable with perianal application for fissure healing.

Anal fissure in children: a 10-year clinical experience with nifedipine gel with lidocaine

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of the use of nifedipine gel with lidocaine in the treatment of acute anal fissures in children by reviewing the cases of 106 children with acute anal fissure treated conservatively by nifedipine gel with lidocaine between the years 2003-2012.

METHODS

The patients included in this study were 48 males and 58 females. Their clinical presentation consisted of constipation, rectal bleeding, anal pain, perianal itching, abdominal pain, irritability and rectal prolapse. Posterior, anterior, both anterior and posterior, multiple, both posterior and lateral locations were the main physical findings in 65, 23, 10, 7, and 1 cases.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine patients completed the 4-week treatment course of nifedipine gel with lidocaine successfully (93.40%), with complete healing of the fissure. The recurrence rate observed was very low (6.60%).

CONCLUSIONS

Topical 0.2% nifedipine with lidocaine appears an efficient mode of treatment for anal fissures in children, with a significant healing rate and no side effects.

Topical application of LEVORAG® as first-line treatment for chronic anal fissures: a preliminary multicentric study

AIM

The aim of the present study was to assess the safety and efficacy of this new topical agent as a first line treatment in patients with chronic anal fissures.

METHODS

Nine centres were involved in the study. Patients with chronic anal fissures were recruited and received Levorag® for 40 days. Follow-up visits were conducted at 10, 20 and 40 days from the recruitment. Primary outcome was the healing rate, secondary outcome the reduction of pain at the end of the treatment measured with a VAS scale.

RESULTS

Fifty patients completed the treatment. No adverse events were recorded. 60% of patients healed completely at the end of the treatment. In those that did not heal the reduction of mean VAS values was 60%.

CONCLUSION

The use of Levorag® on patients affected by chronic anal fissures achieved in the short term results similar to those experienced by more classic local treatments without any side effect.

Long-term follow-up of chronic anal fissure (CAF) on diltiazem 2% using a telephone questionnaire. Do results change?

INTRODUCTION

Calcium channel blockers have an excellent effectiveness in the conservative management of chronic anal fissure (CAF).

OBJECTIVES

To assess the long-term results of management with diltiazem 2% ointment using a telephone questionnaire.

METHODS

A descriptive, retrospective study from March 2004 to March 2011 in patients with CAF on diltiazem 2%, 3 applications daily for 4-6 weeks. Starting at 12 months a questionnaire was administered over the phone by medical staff outside the surgery department to record socio-demographic data, predominant manifestations, and response to diltiazem on a 5-point scale measuring symptom relief (1 = poorest, 5 = best). Patients with therapy failure were referred to surgery.

RESULTS

The study was completed for 166 patients with a mean age of 54.1 years. CAF was posterior in 82.3% of subjects. Diltiazem tolerability was excellent with only 4 adverse event cases (3 skin irritation, 1 hypotension). We obtained symptom relief in 62.1% of patients and CAF healing in 51.2%, and referred 33.7% to surgery. The questionnaire showed that 74.1% of patients had used only 2 applications daily, and that results were better with an increased number of applications, albeit without statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

The telephone questionnaire showed symptom relief for 62% and healing for 51.2% of patients with CAF on diltiazem 2%, which should be considered first-choice for the conservative management of this condition.

The effects of topical application of metronidazole for treatment of chronic anal fissure: A randomized, controlled pilot study

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissures (CAFs) rarely heal with conservative management. Because they are associated with strong anal sphincter tone, most treatment aim to reduce anal pressure. Although infections can cause fissures, as can traumatic injury to the anal canal, antimicrobial treatment is not recommended. In a previous study, we reported identifying a wide spectrum of pathogenic microorganisms in the bases of CAFs, anaerobic bacteria being present in half the cases. We postulated that microbial colonization delays healing of CAF and aimed to determine whether decreasing the bacterial load with topical antibacterial treatment accelerates fissure healing.

METHODS

We cultured fecal samples and swabs from the bases of CAFs in 103 patients. Patients in whose samples anaerobic bacteria were identified (47 patients) were then invited to participate in a prospective randomized clinical trial comparing topical metronidazole with conventional treatment. The primary endpoint was fissure healing confirmed on anoscopy. Secondary endpoints of maximum pain on defecation assessed by visual analog scale, maximum anal resting pressure, and rectal pH were recorded on entry and at 10, 21, and 28 days.

RESULTS

The CAFs were colonized by mixtures of gram-positive/gram-negative anaerobic bacteria or gram-negative aerobic monocultures. Patients with anaerobic bacteria in their swabs who received topical metronidazole treatment experienced rapid relief of pain and anal sphincter spasm along with enhanced fissure healing (95.6 % healing rate compared with 70.8 % in the control group, p = 0.048).

CONCLUSION

Topical antimicrobial treatment can be effective in patients with CAF provided the relevant microorganisms are correctly identified.

Injection of a sclerosing agent as first line treatment in anal fissure

BACKGROUND

In our institution, the first line treatment in acute anal fissures (AAF) or chronic anal fissures (CAF) is the injection of a sclerosing agent consisting of phenol, menthol and peanut oil (Phenomen®, Sterop laboratory, Belgium) under the fissure after a local anaesthesia. This retrospective study presents the technique of injection, evaluates its efficacy and demonstrates the minimal occurrence of complications, continence problems and recurrences.

METHODS

129 patients with an anal fissure were treated between January 2010 and June 2011. 124 patients were reviewed retrospectively. 109 patients benefited from a sclerosis in our outpatient clinic.

RESULTS

Of the 109 patients treated by a sclerosis, 58 had an AAF and 51 had a CAF. 53/58 AAF (91.4%) healed and 40/51 CAF (78.4%). Duration of pain after injection was 2 days or less in 55 cases (50.4%), 1 week or less in 35 cases (32.2%) and more than 1 week in 19 cases (17.4%). The complication rate was low (2.7%) : 2 necrosis of the skin and 1 abscess at the site of injection. The rate of troubles of continence was 2.7% : 2 cases of soiling and 1 case of incon-tinence for gas all resolving within a month. At the end of the study, a fissure had recurred in 17 patients (15.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The injection of a sclerosing agent under the fissure is performed in the practitioner's office. Healing rates are high, complications and recurrences are low. This therapeutic option may be a good alternative to classical treatments in case of anal fissures.

Botulinum toxin versus botulinum toxin with low-dose glyceryltrinitrate for healing of chronic anal fissure: a prospective, randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissure (CAF) is perpetuated by high sphincter pressures and secondary local ischemia. Pharmacological approaches include topical nitrates and botulinum toxin (BT), which both help to decrease the sphincter pressure.

AIMS & OBJECTIVES

The aims of the present study were to assess the efficacy and safety of BT injection and combined treatment with BT injection and lowered dose glyceryltrinitrate (GTN) cream for the treatment of CAF. We hypothesised that combined treatment would have a synergistic effect on healing.

METHODS

Forty-one consecutive patients with CAF were randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments: Group A, injection of BT (20 U into internal anal sphincter) and Group B, BT injection (20 units) and subsequent thrice daily topical applications of half-dose 0.2% GTN cream for 6 weeks. Patients were followed up at 6 and 12 weeks and were assessed for healing of anal fissure, by means of visual inspection using fissure grades; for faecal incontinence, using Cleveland Clinic incontinence scores; and for fissure pain and headache using a numeric pain rating scale.

RESULTS

Fissure healing was similar in the two groups at both 6 (30% in BT and GTN and 33% in BT only) and 12 weeks (50% in BT and GTN vs 57% in BT-only group). Neither the change in pain score from 6 to 12 weeks, nor the overall level of pain was significantly different in the 2 groups. Moderate or severe headaches were suffered by 58% of patients using GTN.

CONCLUSION

Single-agent treatment by means of BT injection alone was well tolerated compared with combination treatment with BT injection and GTN cream, with no significant differences in healing of CAF observed in this small study.

Diltiazem vs. glyceryl tri-nitrate for symptomatic relief in anal fissure: a randomised clnical study

OBJECTIVE

To further resolve the clinical equipoise on the choice of chemical sphincterotomy agent for early symptomatic relief of anal fissure by comparing the effectiveness of 2% Diltiazem gel with 0.2% Glyceryl TriNitrate.

METHODS

The randomized clinical trial was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from February 1, to July 30, 2008, and comprised 60 adult patients with anal fissure who were equally randomised to either Diltiazem or Glyceryl TriNitrate after taking informed consent. The creams were applied locally; the former twice daily, and the latter three times a day for a period of two weeks. The rest of the treatment was standard. Patients were followed up in clinic by the principal investigator at two weeks for primary outcome i.e. self-reported symptomatic relief on Visual Analogue Scale, and secondary outcomes i.e. side effects and the overall cost of treatment.

RESULTS

Of the total, 31 (52%) patients were males and the overall mean age was 37 +/- 11 years. Patients, who used Diltiazem reported more symptomatic relief than Glyceryl TriNitrate (p < 0.01). Side effects were found more in Glyceryl TriNitrate than Diltiazem (p < 0.01), and most common side effect in the former group was headache in 12 (40%) patients. Cost of the treatment was not significantly different between both treatment arms (p < 0.28).

CONCLUSION

Chemical sphincterotomy with topical 2% Diltiazem gel is an effective first-line treatment for early symptomatic relief of anal fissures, owing to negligible side effects.

[The experience of treatment with medicines of botulinum toxin of type A Lantox of chronic anal fissure with sphincter spasm]

The original material of monitoring of 118 patients with chronic anal fissure is presented in the article. Patients' mean age was 48.9+-10.5 years. It was used injections of medicine of botulinum toxin of type A (Lantox) by its introduction in internal anal sphincter in all patients. There was granulating wound with signs of marginal epithelialization in 59.3% of cases on the 10th day after injection. It was detected complete epithelialization of dermis defect in 93.2% of cases on the 21st day, after six weeks - in 100% of cases. According to anorectal profilometry the index of maximal and average pressure in the anal canal at the level of the internal sphincter in patients at rest decreased to norm. Lantox introduction leads to rapid and persistent reduction of pain intensity. "Lantox" use in ambulatory practice permits to minimize the indications for surgical treatment.

[Patients with a therapy-resistant anal fissure: beware of malignancies]

In this article we describe three patients aged 53, 39 and 70 with a therapy-resistant anal fissure. Each patient was inspected under anaesthesia. In all three cases a suspicious lesion or swelling was observed and all biopsies taken showed anal malignancies. Although anal malignancies are rare, their incidence has increased significantly over the past 22 years in the Netherlands (from 71 patients in 1989 to 215 in 2012). It is important to be aware of the possibility of malignancies among patients with a therapy-resistant anal fissure. Therefore, we recommend performing an inspection under anaesthesia in these patients to obtain tissue for histological analysis.

Effects of Aloe vera cream on chronic anal fissure pain, wound healing and hemorrhaging upon defection: a prospective double blind clinical trial

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant that promotes wound healing in burn injuries. A prospective clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of a topical cream containing 0.5% Aloe vera juice powder in the treatment of chronic anal fissures. The aloe cream was applied by the patients to the wound site 3 times per day for 6 weeks following the instructions of a physician. Pain was assessed with a visual analog scale before treatment and at the end of each week of treatment. Wound healing and the amount and severity of bleeding were examined and evaluated before and at the end of each week of treatment. There were statistically significant differences in chronic anal fissure pain, hemorrhaging upon defection and wound healing before and at the end of the first week of treatment also in comparison with control group (p < 0.0001). In this study, a topical cream containing aloe vera juice was an effective treatment for chronic anal fissures. This is a promising result indicating that further comparative studies are justified.

Quality of compounded topical 2% diltiazem hydrochloride formulations for anal fissure

AIM: To investigate the quality of topical 2% diltiazem formulations extemporaneously compounded by retail pharmacies openly offering drug-compounding services.

METHODS: A participating healthcare professional wrote 12 prescriptions for compounded 2% diltiazem cream, with 2 refills allowed per prescription. The 12 sets of prescriptions were filled, at intervals of 1-2 wk between refills, at 12 different independent retail pharmacies that openly offer drug-compounding services in a major metropolitan region. The 36 resultant preparations, provided as jars or tubes, were shipped, as soon as each was filled, at ambient temperature to the study core laboratory for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, within 10 d of receipt. For the HPLC analysis, 8 different samples of the topical diltiazem, each approximately 1 g in weight, were taken from prespecified locations within each container. To initiate the HPLC analysis, each sample was transferred to a 100 mL volumetric flask, to which methanol was added. The HPLC analysis was conducted in accordance with the laboratory-validated method for diltiazem in cream, ointment, and gel formulations. The main outcome measures were potency (percentage of label claim) and content uniformity of the compounded topical 2% diltiazem formulations.

RESULTS: Of the 36 prescriptions filled, 30 were packaged in jars and 6 were packaged as tubes. The prescriptions were specifically for cream formulations, but 6 of the 12 pharmacies compounded 2% diltiazem as an ointment; for another pharmacy, which had inadequate labeling, the dosage form was unknown. The United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) standard for potency is 90%-115% of label claim. Of the 36 preparations, 5 (13.89%) were suprapotent and 13 (36.11%) were subpotent. The suprapotent prescriptions ranged in potency from 117.2% to 128.5% of label claim, and the subpotent prescriptions ranged in potency from 34.8% to 89.8% of label claim. Fourteen (38.9%) preparations lacked content uniformity according to the USP standard of 90%-110% potency and < 6% relative standard deviation. Of the 30 formulations packaged in jars, 12 (40%) lacked content uniformity, while of the 6 formulations packaged in tubes, 2 (33.3%) lacked content uniformity. Nine of the 12 pharmacies (75%) failed USP potency or content-uniformity specifications for at least 1 of the 3 prescription fills. For 5 of the 12 pharmacies (41.7%), the mean potency across all three prescription fills was < 90% of label claim.

CONCLUSION: Patients prescribed topical 2% diltiazem for treatment of anal fissure frequently receive compounded formulations that are misbranded with respect to potency and that lack content uniformity.

Long-term results of topical glyceryl trinitrate ointment in children with anal fissure

BACKGROUND/AIM

Although topical glyceryl trinitrate ointment (GTN) has become a popular treatment for anal fissure in adults, its use in children is still limited. We aimed to determine the effectiveness and safety of topical GTN in the long-term management of anal fissure in children, which has not yet been reported.

METHODS

Thirty-one children with anal fissure who received topical 0.2% GTN treatment between 1997 and 1998 were evaluated in 2004.

RESULTS

Ten patients had one or more relapses after initial treatment with 0.2% GTN, all within 1 year of first onset of anal fissure. No further recurrences were diagnosed during the 4-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Although early recurrence can occur, topical GTN ointment is effective in healing chronic anal fissures in children.

[A multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of glyceryl trinitrate ointment in the treatment of anal fissure]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) ointment in the treatment of anal fissure.

METHODS

In this multi-center, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial, 240 chronic anal fissure patients from 7 clinical centers were randomized to receive eight-week treatment with GTN ointment (treatment group) or vaseline ointment (control group) respectively. Healing rate, visual analogue score (VAS), maximum anal resting pressure (MARP) and adverse reactions were recorded and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 221 patients (92.1%) finished the trial, including 114 patients in treatment group (95.0%, 114/120) and 107 in control group (89.2%, 107/120). At the endpoint of treatment (56 d), 90 patients in treatment group (78.9%, 90/114) healed completely compared to 31 patients in control group (29.0%, 31/107), and decrease rates of VAS in the two groups were (94.8±15.7)% and (61.2±35.7)% respectively, both differences were statistically significant (P<0.01). MARP after first administration was (20.2±18.5) mm Hg in treatment group (n=12) and (7.1±14.7) mm Hg in control group (n=6), which was not significantly different (P=0.152). Adverse reaction incidence was higher in treatment group (42.1% vs. 9.3%, P<0.05), while these adverse reactions were mainly headache and fullness in head, which were self-limiting.

CONCLUSION

GTN ointment can effectively promote healing and relieve pain in anal fissure with safety and tolerance.

Topical diltiazem vs. topical glyceril trinitrate in the treatment of chronic anal fissure: a prospective, randomized, double-blind trial

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Chemical sphincterotomy is a new way for the treatment of chronic anal fissure which avoids the risk of faecal incontinence associated with traditional surgical methods. The aim of this study was to compare topical Diltiazem with topical Glyceril trinitrate in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

61 patients (10 Male, 51 Female) between 16-81 years of age with chronic anal fissure were included in this prospective, randomized, double-blind trial. The patients were randomly allocated to either Diltiazem gel (2%) or Glyceril trinitrate ointment (0.2%) and were asked to use the treatment twice daily for 8 weeks. Each patient was reviewed every two weeks; pain scores, healing and side effects were assessed.

RESULTS

Healing occurred in 33 of 36 (91.66%) patients treated with Diltiazem after 6 weeks and 15 of 25 (60%) patients treated with Glyceril trinitrate after 8 weeks which shows a significant difference in favour of Diltiazem (P < 0.001). The rest of the patients were either non-compliant or did not heal and underwent surgery. Headache occurred in all of the patients treated with Glyceril trinitrate but none of the patients treated with Diltiazem developed headache. The frequency of other side-effects was also less in patients treated with Diltiazem (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Diltiazem gel was found to be superior to Glyceril trinitrate ointment due to significantly higher healing rate and fewer side-effects.

Evaluation and management of common anorectal conditions

The prevalence of benign anorectal conditions in the primary care setting is high, although evidence of effective therapy is often lacking. In addition to recognizing common benign anorectal disorders, physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for inflammatory and malignant disorders. Patients with red flags such as increased age, family history, persistent anorectal bleeding despite treatment, weight loss, or iron deficiency anemia should undergo colonoscopy. Pruritus ani, or perianal itching, is managed by treating the underlying cause, ensuring proper hygiene, and providing symptomatic relief with oral antihistamines, topical steroids, or topical capsaicin. Effective treatments for anal fissures include onabotulinumtoxinA, topical nitroglycerin, and topical calcium channel blockers. Symptomatic external hemorrhoids are managed with dietary modifications, topical steroids, and analgesics. Thrombosed hemorrhoids are best treated with hemorrhoidectomy if symptoms are present for less than 72 hours. Grades I through III internal hemorrhoids can be managed with rubber band ligation. For the treatment of grade III internal hemorrhoids, surgical hemorrhoidectomy has higher remission rates but increased pain and complication rates compared with rubber band ligation. Anorectal condylomas, or anogenital warts, are treated based on size and location, with office treatment consisting of topical trichloroacetic acid or podophyllin, cryotherapy, or laser treatment. Simple anorectal fistulas can be treated conservatively with sitz baths and analgesics, whereas complex or nonhealing fistulas may require surgery. Fecal impaction may be treated with polyethylene glycol, enemas, or manual disimpaction. Fecal incontinence is generally treated with loperamide and biofeedback. Surgical intervention is reserved for anal sphincter injury.

Non surgical therapy for anal fissure

BACKGROUND

Because of the disability associated with surgery for anal fissure and the risk of incontinence, medical alternatives for surgery have been sought. Most recently, pharmacologic methods that relax the anal smooth muscle, to accomplish reversibly what occurs in surgery, have been used to obtain fissure healing.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and morbidity of various medical therapies for anal fissure.

SEARCH METHODS

Search terms include "anal fissure randomized". Timing from 1966 to August 2010. Further details of the search below.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies in which participants were randomized to a non-surgical therapy for anal fissure. Comparison groups may include an operative procedure, an alternate medical therapy or placebo. Chronic fissure, acute fissure and fissure in children are included in the review. Atypical fissures associated with inflammatory bowel disease or cancer or anal infection are excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were abstracted from published reports and meeting abstracts, assessing method of randomization, blinding, "intention to treat" and drop-outs, therapies, supportive measures (applied to both groups), dosing and frequency and cross-overs. Dichotomous outcome measures included Non-healing of the fissure (a combination of persistence and recurrence), and Adverse events (including incontinence, headache, infection, anaphylaxis). Continuous outcome measures included measures of pain relief and anorectal manometry.

MAIN RESULTS

In this update 23 studies including 1236 participants is added to the 54 studies and 3904 participants in the 2008 publication, however 2 studies were from the last version reclassified as un included, so the final number of participants is 5031.49 different comparisons of the ability of medical therapies to heal anal fissure have been reported in 75 RCTs. Seventeen agents were used (nitroglycerin ointment (GTN), isosorbide mono & dinitrate, Botulinum toxin (Botox), diltiazem, nifedipine (Calcium channel blockers or CCBs), hydrocortisone, lignocaine, bran, minoxidil, indoramin, clove oil, L-arginine, sitz baths, sildenafil, "healer cream" and placebo) as well as Sitz baths, anal dilators and surgical sphincterotomy. GTN was found to be marginally but significantly better than placebo in healing anal fissure (48.9% vs. 35.5%, p < 0.0009), but late recurrence of fissure was common, in the range of 50% of those initially cured. Botox and CCBs were equivalent to GTN in efficacy with fewer adverse events. No medical therapy came close to the efficacy of surgical sphincterotomy, though none of the medical therapies in these RCTs were associated with the risk of incontinence.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Medical therapy for chronic anal fissure, currently consisting of topical glyceryl trinitrate, botulinum toxin injection or the topical calcium channel blockers nifedipine or diltiazem in acute and chronic fissure and fissure in children may be applied with a chance of cure that is marginally better than placebo. For chronic fissure in adults all medical therapies are far less effective than surgery. A few of the newer agents investigated show promise based only upon single studies (clove oil, sildenifil and a "healer cream") but lack comparison to more established medications.

[Role of selective decontamination in combined treatment of chronic anal fissure]

Effectiveness of selective decontamination in combined treatment of patients with chronic anal fissure and concomitant proctitis was studied in clinical randomized investigation including 103 patients. The etiologically significant flora colonizing the chronic defect of the anoderma does not coincide with the composition of feces microflora and is presented by anaerobic microorganisms or a combination of aerobes and anaerobes. It was established that topical etiotropic antibacterial therapy in combination with medicamentous sphincterotomy in the outpatient treatment resulted in quicker arrest of the pain syndrome, accelerated epithelization of the fissure and made the period of treatment 2 times shorter as compared with control.