Outcome of transanal advancement flap repair (TAFR) as salvage therapy after failed ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT)-A proposed algorithm after failed LIFT.

AIM: To assess the outcomes of transanal advancement flap repair (TAFR) following failed ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) treatment for cryptoglandular anal fistulas, with a focus on healing and functional results.

METHODS

This retrospective observational cohort study included patients who underwent TAFR after a failed LIFT procedure for cryptoglandular perianal fistulas at two Dutch referral centers between 2015 and 2023. Pre- and postoperative continence data were gathered prospectively, while long-term outcomes, including success rates and faecal continence, were evaluated using the Faecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) through questionnaires distributed in 2023.

RESULTS

Of the 129 patients who underwent LIFT, 90 (70%) experienced failure of the procedure. A total of 24 patients, including those referred from other centres after failed LIFT, underwent TAFR, with a success rate of 71% (17 out of 24). No significant differences in faecal continence were observed between preoperative and postoperative FISI scores. Body mass index (BMI) was significantly associated with healing outcomes (p < 0.05), indicating that patients with a lower BMI had higher healing rates.

CONCLUSION

TAFR following failed LIFT surgery shows healing results equivalent to those of initial fistula repairs, with obesity emerging as a potential predictor of healing success. These findings support current guideline recommendations favouring TAFR as the preferred salvage procedure after failed LIFT.