The Modified Clipped-LIFT Procedure for High Transsphincteric or Suprasphincteric Fistula

The Modified Clipped Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (Clipped-LIFT) for High Transsphincteric or Suprasphincteric Fistula: a Proof-of-concept Study

A retrospective analysis was performed on 96 patients who underwent modified LIFT procedures to treat transsphincteric or suprasphincteric fistulas. Two distinct methods were utilized to ligate the internal sphincter side of the intersphincteric tract: one group received conventional ligation with absorbable sutures (Suturing-LIFT, n=74), while the other group was treated with absorbable clips commonly used for vascular or biliary duct occlusion (Clipped-LIFT, n=22). The primary outcome was the one-stage healing rate, which was compared between the two groups, and the safety profile of the clipped-LIFT approach was analyzed. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify potential prognostic factors associated with therapeutic outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• (1) preoperative pelvic MRI confirming Parks classification; (2) all patients undergoing a modified LIFT procedure, either with suture ligation (suturing-LIFT group) or clip ligation (clipped-LIFT group).

Exclusion Criteria:

• (1) presence of secondary rectal or anal openings identified as unsuitable for LIFT during postoperative evaluation; (2) lack of clinical outcomes following initial modified LIFT procedure.