A necktie fashion vascular loop seton tie may simplify the treatment of perianal fistula

Abstract

Seton for treatment of perianal fistula can be of the cutting or a loose type. We adopted a simple technique for tighten the seton by applying a necktie shape tie on the vascular loop, hence it can be used for drainage on the beginning, and for cutting purpose later on. In this retrospective study we report our experience on this seton tie method. Material and methods Patients operated for perianal fistula between 2012 and 2014 were reviewed. Results Of 63 patients operated, 23 (35%) had a necktie-tie seton. There were 15 (65%) men. Age 34.1 ± 10.6. Six (26%) had a recurrent fistula, 2 (9%) with loose seton in place. The external opening: anterior four (17%), lateral fifteen (65%), posterior three (13%), one patient (4%) had two opening. The internal opening was identified: posterior seventeen (74%), anterior four (17%) and right posterior two (8%). Nineteen (82%) had a trans-sphenteric tract, four (17%) females had an anterior location. Operative time was 32 min (range 22–55). The seton was tightened 4 times (range 2–5) with 2 weeks interval. Healing was achieved in 7 weeks (range 5–11). In 24 months (range 12–35) follow-up, no reported anal incontinence. Recurrence was observed in one patient (4%). Conclusion The necktie tightening of the vascular loop seton is a simple, safe, easily performed and may simplify the seton management of perianal fistulae.