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Coloproctology pp 59–73Cite as

Anorectal Abscess and Fistula

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Part of the book series: European Manual of Medicine ((EUROMANUAL))

Abstract

Fistula in ano is a common condition mostly caused by inflammation of the proctodeal anal glands. This results in an acute anal abscess or chronic fistula. Anal fistulas are classified according to their relation to the anal sphincter muscles: subcutaneous, subanodermal, intersphincteric, transsphincteric, suprasphincteric or extrasphincteric. Distal fistulas including negligible amounts of sphincter muscle are treated by a lay-open technique (fistulotomy, fistulectomy), whereas proximal fistulas are cured using sphincter-saving procedures (advancement flap, fistulectomy with primary sphincter reconstruction, ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract, fistula plugs, fistula clip). The best surgical method balances the chance of healing and the risk of incontinence. An experienced colorectal surgeon also plays an important role.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1End- und Dickdarmzentrum Mannheim, Consultant Medical University Mannheim, Bismarckplatz, 168165, Mannheim, Germany

    Alexander Herold MD

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  1. Alexander Herold MD
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Correspondence to Alexander Herold MD .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. End- und Dickdarm-Zentrum Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany

    Alexander Herold

  2. Clinique de chirurgie digestive et endocrinienne, Institut des maladies de l’appareil digestif, Hotel Dieu, Nantes, France

    Paul-Antoine Lehur

  3. Chirurgische Klinik mit Poliklinik, Universitaet Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany

    Klaus E. Matzel

  4. UCD School of Medicine, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland

    P. Ronan O'Connell

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Herold, A. (2017). Anorectal Abscess and Fistula. In: Herold, A., Lehur, PA., Matzel, K., O'Connell, P. (eds) Coloproctology. European Manual of Medicine. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-53210-2_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-53210-2_6

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-662-53208-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-662-53210-2

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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