Radiofrequency fistulotomy in anal fistula. An alternative to conventional surgical fistulotomy.

Most of surgeons prefer fistulotomy by laying open technique in treating different types of anal fistula. We used the radiofrequency fistulotomy procedure in 136 cases of various types of low anal fistulae in a one-year period. The patients were followed for 18 months. The average time for complete wound healing was 37 days and additional follow-up was continued for 7 days. Delayed wound healing occurred in 7 patients. It failed completely in 2 patients and 3 were lost to follow up. No patient had interference with continence. Radiofrequency fistulotomy method was effective with easy tissue excision and minimum bleeding. It permitted use in deep and difficult areas like the adjoining tracts. The failure rate was 3.7%.