Endoscopic ultrasonography of perianorectal fistulas and abscesses.

In this article we describe the history, instrument, indications, and results of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) in the evaluation of perianorectal fistulas and abscesses. EUS has been reported to be helpful in the management of patients with Crohn's disease or colitis associated with fistulas and abscesses, due to its clear imaging of the leasion and valuable topographic anatomical information. Recent studies point out the relationship between EUS and electromyography. We believe EUS will become a standard procedure in the management of these complex disease processes.