Anal fistula surgery showdown: which technique spares continence?

NCT ID NCT07579715

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compared two common surgeries for perianal fistula—a painful tunnel near the anus. One hundred adults were split into two groups: one received the LIFT procedure (which aims to preserve muscle control) and the other received fistulotomy with a seton (a thread placed in the tunnel). Researchers measured healing time, recurrence, pain, and whether patients kept normal bowel control. The goal is to find which approach offers better recovery and fewer complications.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

surgical procedure (LIFT or fistulotomy with seton)

What this could lead to

If this study shows clear advantages, it could help surgeons choose the best technique to reduce recurrence and preserve bowel control for patients with anal fistula.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed comparative study, not a large randomized trial. Results may not apply to all fistula types or patients with other health conditions.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anal fistula

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital, Islamabad Medical and Dental College

    Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan