About this trial
\>This randomized clinical trial compares three different surgical techniques for the treatment of transsphincteric perianal fistula: (1) traditional fistulotomy (lay open), (2) ligation of the intersphincteric tract (LIFT) with adjunctive endofistula laser ablation, and (3) open LIFT procedure followed by direct laser ablation of the tract under vision. The aim is to determine which approach offers the highest healing rate, lowest recurrence, and best postoperative outcomes with minimal impact on continence.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Adults aged 18-65
Confirmed diagnosis of transsphincteric cryptoglandular perianal fistula
Primary (first-time) surgery
Able to provide informed consent
Disqualifiers
Crohn's disease or other inflammatory bowel disease
Suprasphincteric, extrasphincteric, or horseshoe fistulas
Previous fistula surgery
Active perianal abscess
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- fistula lay open
- LIFT plus LASER
- open LIFT plus LASER