Fascia Lata Biological Plug: A Novel Technique for Treating Anal Fistulae

Background: An anal fistula is a prevalent condition characterised by an abnormal connection between the epithelialised surface of the anal canal and the skin. Surgeons are continually developing new techniques to effectively treat anal fistulae while preserving the patient's continence. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes and complications associated with the management of high perianal fistulae using the fascia lata biological plug (FBP) technique.

Methods: This prospective cohort study included all adult patients who presented to the Kasr Al-Ainy Outpatient Surgery Clinic, Cairo, Egypt, between March 2020 and December 2021, with a single-tract high perianal fistula.

Results: A total of 46 eligible patients were included in the study. The insertion of the FBP was associated with complete healing without recurrence in 37 patients (80.4%) at six months post-surgery. Among the 46 patients, only nine (19.6%) experienced fistula recurrence. The recurrence rate increased to 30.4% at 18 months post-surgery, resulting in an overall success rate of 69.6%. Complete continence was maintained in all patients. At 18 months, extra-sphincteric (14.3% vs 0.0%) and supra-sphincteric (21.4% vs 0.0%) types exhibited significantly higher recurrence rates (p=0.006). Anterior fistulae also demonstrated a significantly higher recurrence rate compared to posterior fistulae (64.3% vs 25.0%, p=0.011).

Conclusions: The use of a FBP for the treatment of single-tract high perianal fistulae yields promising results without compromising patients' continence. It is essential to consider the type and nature of the anal fistula when selecting the most appropriate procedure for effective treatment.