Comparison Of Surgical Outcomes Between Ligation Of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract And Fistulotomy With Seton In Perianal Fistula

This study aims to compare two commonly used surgical techniques for the treatment of perianal fistula: Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) and fistulotomy with seton. Perianal fistula is a condition that can cause pain, discharge, and significant discomfort, and its treatment remains challenging due to the risk of recurrence and potential loss of bowel control after surgery. The LIFT procedure is a sphincter-preserving technique designed to treat the fistula without damaging the muscles responsible for continence. In contrast, fistulotomy with seton involves placing a thread (seton) in the fistula tract followed by gradual or staged division of the tract, which may carry a higher risk of affecting continence. In this study, 100 adult patients diagnosed with perianal fistula will be included and divided into two groups based on the surgical procedure they undergo: LIFT or fistulotomy with seton. The outcomes of both procedures will be compared in terms of wound healing time, recurrence of the fistula, postoperative pain, and preservation of bowel continence. The results of this study will help determine which surgical technique provides better recovery, fewer complications, and improved quality of life for patients.

NCT Number	NCT07579715
Lead Sponsor	Islamabad Medical and Dental College
Conditions	Anal Fistula, Perianal Fistula, Fistula-in-ano
Enrollment	100 participants
Start Date	2026-01-01
Primary Completion	2026-05-30 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-05-30 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-06-03