A Prospective Study of Open Versus Closed Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy in Chronic Anal Fissures

Abstract

Background: Fissure-in-ano is a very common anal disorder which predominantly presents with severe pain. Lateral internal sphincterotomy remains the main treatment modality. This may be performed using open or closed method, each with their attendant complications. Objective: This prospective study compared the results and complications of open versus closed technique of lateral sphincterotomy in patients with chronic anal ssure. Materials and Methods:Atotal of 64 patients with chronic anal ssure were enrolled in this study. Of these, 34 patients underwent open lateral sphincterotomy, and 30 underwent closed sphincterotomy. They were followed up for 6 months postsurgery. The results and complications of the two groups were compared and statistically analyzed. Results: Post-operative complications such as pain, bleeding, infection, incontinence, and recurrence were compared between the two groups. Pain, bleeding, and incontinence to atus were signicantly lesser in the closed group (P < 0.05), while there was no difference in the incidence of infection and recurrence between the two groups. Conclusion: Closed lateral internal sphincterotomy is a better alternative compared to open sphincterotomy in the treatment of chronic anal ssures.