Vol. 9, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Introduction: Fistula in Ano is defined as small tunnel which opens in the skin near the anus externally and internal opening in the anal canal which causes chronic inflammation. Fistula develops when anal canal abscess doesn’t heal completely after drainage. This study is proposed to compare the outcome of LIFT and fistulectomy in the management of fistula in Ano.

Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective comparative study of ligation of inters sphincteric fistula tract and fistulectomy in treatment of fistula in ano which contains 70 patients divided in to two groups. Group 1 (LIFT) and Group 2 (fistulectomy). Patients who met the inclusion criteria are included in the study.

Results: The mean age of Group I patients was 46.6years and 45.7years in Group II. Most common presentation in Group I was discharge constitutes 80% of study population followed by pain constituting 53%. In Group I operation time was >30 minutes with a mean operating time of 36.7 minutes. In Group II mean operating time was 27.7 minutes. Operation time less in Group II. It is statistically significant (p <0.001). Wound healing time was 23.9 days in Group I and 31.7 days in Group II with a statistically significant p value of <0.001.

Conclusion: The LIFT procedure is a safe, effective, and sphincter-sparing alternative to fistulectomy for low anal fistulas. It offers faster wound healing and a lower recurrence rate with minimal complications. LIFT may be considered the preferred technique in suitable cases of low anal fistula.