Fistula in Ano; the Correlation of Pre-Operative Magnetic Resonance Imaging with Video Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment Findings

Abstract

background: Fistula-in-ano (FIA) is a common medical problem. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent modality for the pre-operative evaluation of this condition. Video assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) is a relatively new modality introduced in 2006, and is both diagnostic and operative.Aim: To correlate MRI findings with video assisted anal fistula treatment findings.Patients and methods: Thirty-five patients with clinically diagnosed FIA, had a pelvic MRI followed by VAAFT surgery.Results: Mean age was 42 years. In one case both MRI and VAAFT revealed a sinus. In 29 cases (82.8 %) there was concordance regarding the presence of an FIA, both tracts and internal openings. In 5 cases (14.2%), there was no concordance regarding the presence of an internal opening.Conclusion: MRI is essential in the pre-operative assessment of FIA especially for clinically complex fistulas.