✦ ANAL FISTULA · SPHINCTER-PRESERVING

LIFT Procedure

Q: What happens if LIFT does not cure the fistula?

LIFT failure typically results in a smaller, more superficial residual tract. This can often be treated by fistulotomy of the residual tract or repeat LIFT.

Q: Is LIFT better than VAAFT for anal fistulas?

Both are sphincter-preserving with similar cure rates of 60–80%. VAAFT provides direct endoscopic visualisation useful for complex or multi-tract fistulas.

Q: Can LIFT be performed for Crohn's fistulas?

LIFT can be performed for Crohn's-related fistulas, ideally after biologic therapy has controlled inflammation and a seton has matured the tract.

Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract — 60–80% cure with zero sphincter division.

45–60 Min TREATMENT DURATION

Day Care CARE SETTING

Surgical APPROACH

1–2 Weeks RECOVERY TIMELINE

What is LIFT Procedure?

The LIFT (Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) procedure treats transsphincteric fistulas by ligating and dividing the tract in the intersphincteric plane, between the internal and external sphincter muscles. No sphincter muscle is cut. Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi performs the LIFT procedure through a small intersphincteric groove incision. The fistula tract is ligated and divided, obliterating the connection between the internal and external openings while preserving complete sphincter integrity.

Suitable for patients with transsphincteric anal fistulas involving significant sphincter muscle, where fistulotomy would risk incontinence and sphincter-preserving repair is required.

How the Procedure Works

Intersphincteric Access

Small incision in intersphincteric groove. Intersphincteric plane carefully developed between the sphincter muscles.

Tract Identification

Fistula tract identified by probe from external opening. Tract isolated in the intersphincteric plane under direct vision.

Ligation and Division

Fistula tract ligated on both sides with absorbable sutures and divided. No sphincter muscle is cut at any point.

External Wound

External fistula opening curetted and left open. Intersphincteric incision closed primarily with absorbable sutures.

Healing

Review at 6 weeks. MRI if fistula persists. Repeat procedure if needed without additional sphincter risk.

Outcomes

45–60 MinTREATMENT DURATION

Day CareCARE SETTING

SurgicalAPPROACH

1–2 WeeksRECOVERY TIMELINE

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Treats fistula at its source — in the intersphincteric plane
→Zero sphincter muscle division — complete continence preservation
→60–80% cure rate for transsphincteric fistulas
→Failed LIFT leaves all other sphincter-preserving options available

The LIFT procedure treats the fistula where it communicates with the sphincter — dividing it in the safe intersphincteric plane without cutting any muscle. It is a technically elegant solution for complex fistulas.

— Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi, Senior Consultant Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if LIFT does not cure the fistula?+

Is LIFT better than VAAFT for anal fistulas?+

Can LIFT be performed for Crohn's fistulas?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Tagore Grandhi and get a personalised treatment plan.

WhatsApp Us ← Back to Treatments