Efficacy and safety of autologous adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction enriched with platelet-rich plasma in flap repair of transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas

Background Transanal advancement flap repair of transsphincteric fistulas is a sphincter-preserving procedure, which frequently fails, probably due to ongoing inflammation in the remaining fistula tract. Adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) has immunomodulatory properties promoting wound healing and suppressing inflammation. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) reinforces this biological effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of autologous adipose-derived SVF enriched with PRP in flap repair of transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistulas. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted including consecutive patients with transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistula in a tertiary referral center. During flap repair, SVF was obtained by lipoharvesting and mechanical fractionation of adipose tissue and combined with PRP was injected around the internal opening and into the fistulous wall. Endpoints were fistula healing at clinical examination and fistula closure on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Adverse events were documented. Results Forty-five patients with transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistula were included (29 males, median age 44 years [range 36-53 years]). In the total study population, primary fistula healing was observed in 38 patients (84%). Among the 42 patients with intestinal continuity at time of surgery, primary fistula healing was observed in 35 patients (84%). In one patient, the fistula recurred, resulting in a long-term healing rate of 82%. MRI, performed in 37 patients, revealed complete closure of the fistula tract in 33 (89.2%). In the other patients, the tract was almost completely obliterated by scar tissue. During follow-up, none of these patients showed clinical signs of recurrence. The postoperative course was uneventful, except for three cases; venous thromboembolism in one patient and bleeding under the flap, necessitating intervention in two patients. Conclusions Addition of autologous SVF enriched with PRP during flap repair is feasible, safe and might improve outcomes in patients with a transsphincteric cryptoglandular fistula.