Efficacy of glove rubber as seton for treatment of high and complex fistula-in-ano-a retrospective study

Objective: Surgical outcomes of perianal fístula has a significant rate of post-operative complications such as prolonged hospitalization, pain during post operative period, high chances of recurrence and anal incontinence. We aimed to conduct this retrospective study to determine the efficacy of Glove rubber as seton in the treatment of fistula-in-ano to minimize the risk factors. We documented our experience in managing High and Complex fistulas with Glove Rubber as Seton. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective study of 60 patients of fistula-in-ano treated with Glove Rubber as Seton. All 60 patients were documented from 2008 to 2014 at Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre. Out of 60 cases 08 were High and 52 were Complex fistula. Surgical outcome of patients treated by Glove Rubber seton for anal fistulas were analyzed. Follow-up was made for 03 years to record fistula recurrence, anal incontinence and duration of complete wound healing. Results: The study involved 60 patients of mean age 34 years (range 20 to 60 years). Complete healing had occurred in all the patients (100%) within 4 to 6 weeks. Among 60 cases none of the patients developed recurrent fistula or incontinence. Conclusion: Treatment of fistula-in-ano with Glove Rubber is associated with least complication rate. It can therefore be recommended as the standard treatment for High and Complex Fistulae.