Surgery for Anorectal Fistula

Abstract

Anorectal fistulas most often result from an infectious process of an anal gland situated at the dentate line. Other causes of anorectal fistulas are Crohn’s disease, trauma, anal fissure, cancer, radiation, and specific infections (actinomycosis, tuberculosis, and Chlamydia). Fistulas are classified based on the course of their tract. A simple classification divides anorectal fistulas into simple or complex. Fistulas with subcutaneous, intersphincteric, or low transsphincteric tracts are considered simple. Complex fistulas are those with high transsphincteric, supra or extra sphincteric tracts, and have multiple tracts or are recurrent.