Aim:The efficiency of a chemical cauterization technique in the treatment of high blind tracts, which are important causes of recurrence in anorectal fistula, were investigated.
Materials and methods:Fifteen patients underwent surgery for low perianal fistula with high blind tracts. Partial fistulectomy and cutting seton technique was performed on all patients. The high blind tracts were cauterized by silver nitrate particles and the surgical area was left for secondary healing. The follow-up duration was 6 months to 1 year. The anal continence was evaluated according to the Wexner score.Results: Four of the 15 patients were female, whereas 11 were male. Ages ranged between 17 and 67 years. While 11 participants were primary cases, four were recurrent. Nine of the fistula tracts were intersphincteric and five were transsphincteric and one case had horseshoe fistula. The mean wound healing duration was 5.5 weeks. Mild anal incontinence (Wexner score = 3) was recorded in one case and recurrence was observed in another.
Conclusion:Cauterization with silver nitrate is a new treatment method for high blind tract in anal fistulas. It is a safe and noninvasive method that reduces recurrences and surgical complications.