INCIDENCE OF RECURRENT FISTULA-IN-ANO POST-SURGICAL TREATMENT IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTER

Abstract

Objective: To determine the incidence of recurrent fistula-in-ano following surgical treatment in patients presenting to a tertiary care center in Karachi.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

 Settings: Department of Surgery Unit II, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi.

Period: Six months.

Material & Methods: A total of 100 patients aged 18–65 years diagnosed with fistula-in-ano and undergoing surgical treatment were included using non-probability purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured proforma including demographic variables, type of fistula, and surgical procedures. Patients were followed up for six months to assess recurrence. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Chi-square test was applied, with p ≤ 0.05 considered significant.

Results: The mean age of patients was 41.48 ± 10.04 years. Males constituted 68% of participants. The overall recurrence rate was 21%. Recurrence was significantly associated with complex fistula type (p < 0.001) and surgical procedure (p < 0.001), particularly seton placement. No significant association was found with gender (p = 0.090).

Conclusion: A considerable proportion of patients developed recurrence following surgical treatment, with higher risk observed in complex fistulas and specific surgical procedures. Improved surgical strategies and careful patient selection are recommended.