A mini-invasive procedure for the treatment of supralevator abscess of cryptoglandular origin by extrasphincteric extension: preliminary results at 1-year follow-up

Aim The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the preliminary results of a mini-invasive procedure for the treatment of supralevator abscesses (SLA) of cryptoglandular origin by extrasphincteric extension. Method In this clinical study, an innovative two-stage procedure was tested for the surgical treatment of SLA. As first step and as a preparation for surgery, the interventional radiologist positioned a CT-guided percutaneous perianal guidewire inside the abscess cavity under local anesthesia. As second step, the surgeon performed an abscess incision and drainage around the guidewire, with a complete debridement of all the necrotic tissue. If a complex anal fistula was identified, a loose seton was placed in situ. Results Nine patients, comprising 5 men (55%) and 4 women (45%), underwent the above-mentioned two-stage procedure to treat SLA of cryptoglandular origin. Median age was 32 years (range, 25-42 years). A silicone draining seton was placed during the surgical procedure in 5 patients (55%), since a coexisting fistula was also revealed by surgery. A repeat surgery, along with a new drainage procedure, was required in one patient out of nine (11.1%) for a complete wound healing. The complete wound healing was achieved after a median of 30 days (range, 26-38). At the 1-year follow-up, the healing rate was 89%. Conclusions The treatment of SLA of cryptoglandular origin by using this innovative two-stage procedure may be a safe and convenient surgical option to effectively decrease the risk of recurrence and anal sphincteric injuries.