J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 116(2): 87-93, 2015

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Feature topic

SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR PERIANAL CROHN'S DISEASE

Perianal lesions are a frequent complication of Crohn's disease (CD) and include fistula, abscess, anal ulcer, skin tag, anal stricture, and carcinoma. Perianal fistula is the most commonly observed condition and exhibits multiple incidence and intractable characteristics. The starting point for the management of perianal fistula is an accurate diagnosis, which requires careful exploration during an EUA. The condition is treated with medications such as antibiotics, immunosuppressants, or anti-tumor necrosis factor agents. However, it is difficult to maintain long-term remission. Surgical therapy is selected according to the type of fistula and can include conventional fistulotomy, seton drainage, diverting stoma, and anorectal amputation. After fistulotomy, recurrence is frequent and there is an increased risk of incontinence. Seton drainage is the preferred treatment to improve symptoms and preserve anal function. Stoma is useful to relieve symptoms but difficult to indicate for young patients. The optimum treatment for perianal fistula associated with CD remains controversial. Currently, the goal of therapy for these patients has shifted from complete fistula closure to reducing drainage from the fistula to improve their quality of life. Ongoing careful management is important to control anal symptoms and maintain long-term anal function in the treatment of patients with CD, while monitoring them to detect possible progression to anorectal carcinoma.

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