Dr. Mohammed Hatem AlsubaihFor education and visit preparation; individual assessment requires a clinical history and examination.
What does LIFT do?
Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract treats the part of a fistula between the two sphincter muscles. The surgeon identifies, ties and divides this segment, aiming to interrupt its connection while avoiding division of the external sphincter. It is different from laying the whole tract open.
Which anatomy matters?
LIFT may be considered for selected transsphincteric fistulas. The internal opening, branches, collections, previous repairs and tissue scarring affect suitability. A label such as “complex fistula” does not by itself select this operation.
Healing and continence are separate outcomes
A muscle-preserving approach does not guarantee closure. Persistent or recurrent drainage may require reassessment. Infection sometimes needs drainage, with a loose seton where appropriate, before an attempt at closure.
Bring the previous story
Bring available MRI images and operation notes, and describe continence before and after previous treatment. Record whether drainage ever stopped completely and for how long. The surgeon needs this timeline alongside the current examination.
Questions for your appointment
- Where does my tract cross the sphincters?
- Why is LIFT suitable compared with a flap or another approach?
- How will healing be assessed?