Anal fistula communicating to anterior abdominal wall treated with ksharasutra (medicated seton): a rare case study

Abstract

A case of anal fistula communication to anterior abdominal wall treated using ‘Medicated Seton’ called ‘Ksharasutra’ is reported here. Sushruta mentioned about Ksharasutra in his text book Sushruta Samhita in 500 BC. A 54-year-old male came with recurrent abscess in the lower abdominal wall and underwent incision and drainage three times earlier. Scar on lower abdomen and active sinuses on right and left ischiorectal fossa were noted. Internal opening was felt at anal mucosa posteriorly. Transrectal ultrasonography revealed posterior anal fistula, extending to left gluteum and traced till left ramus. Seton was placed in the tract from 5’o clock position to internal opening at 6’o clock position. Every week Ksharasutra changed for 8 weeks. This healed internal opening, right and left ischiorectal sinuses. Left tract toward groin and lower abdomen wall showed fibrosis. Same was confirmed through review scan. Six years of follow-up has shown no signs of recurrence.