Anterior Horseshoe Anal Fistula Treated With IFTAK (Interception of Fistulous Track With Application of Ksharasutra) Technique: A Case Study.

Anterior horseshoe anal fistula is a challenging variant of complex anorectal infections. Classical surgeries, including ksharasutra therapy in these cases may result in extensive postsurgical scarring and anal incontinence. On the other hand, interception of fistulous track with application of ksharasutra (IFTAK) technique has emerged as a novel way of managing anal fistulas because of its nature of minimal invasiveness, ability to cut and heal tissues with controlled fibrosis, and continence preservation. Here, we explain a detailed case study of a 40-year-old gentleman who presented with a recurrent anterior horseshoe fistula effectively managed with IFTAK. The digital rectal examination (DRE), proctoscopy, methylene blue test, and probing were done to delineate tracts and confirm the diagnosis. Fistula healed completely and showed no recurrence at 8 months of follow-up. Compared to traditional methods, the technique results in a shorter hospital stay and a shorter treatment duration.