Comparative study between conventional fistulectomy and SLOFT in cases of low fistula in ano

Introduction: Fistula in ano is a common anorectal disorder requiring surgical intervention. It is associated with high recurrence rate and post-operative complications. In this study we have analysed and compare results of a newer technique for low anal fistula SLOFT with conventional Fistulectomy. Aims and Objective: To compare Submucosal Ligation of Fistula Tract (SLOFT) with conventional fistulectomy in patients of low anal fistula by analysing various intra-operative factors and post-operative outcome. Materials and Methods: An interventional study carried out at Santosh Medical College and Hospitals, Ghaziabad from January 2017 to October 2018. This study included 60 Patients of low anal fistula which were divided into two groups of 30 patients each. Group I was offered Conventional Fistulectomy & Group II underwent SLOFT. Result and Observations: Fistula in ano is commonly seen in middle aged males. There is no significant difference in duration of surgery between SLOFT and Fistulectomy. However post-operative complications, pain (measured by VAS scoring system), wound healing and early return to work was significantly better in patients who underwent SLOFT. Conclusion: SLOFT has significant advantage over convention fistulectomy in terms of post-operative pain, wound healing, early return to work and cosmetic outcome. Keywords: Fistula in ano, Low anal fistula, SLOFT (Submucosal ligation of fistula tract), LIFT (Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract), Fistulectomy.