✦ 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

LIFT Procedure Cost for Anal Fistula in Hyderabad

The cost of LIFT Procedure (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) in Hyderabad depends on factors such as fistula complexity, sphincter involvement, investigations required, and post-operative care.

For patients with trans-sphincteric fistula, the approximate cost of LIFT Procedure ranges between ₹45,000 and ₹85,000.

Procedure	Approximate Cost Range
LIFT Procedure	₹45,000 – ₹85,000

The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, fistula anatomy, hospital care, and follow-up requirements.

Factors That Influence LIFT Procedure Cost

The overall cost may depend on:

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Fistula anatomy: The pathway of the fistula and involvement of anal sphincter muscles influence treatment planning.
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Pre-operative evaluation: MRI fistulogram, clinical examination, and other assessments may contribute to the overall cost.
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Surgical complexity: The procedure requirements, anaesthesia, hospital stay, and post-operative monitoring can affect the estimate.
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Recovery and follow-up: Medications, wound care, and follow-up consultations may influence overall treatment expenses.

Is LIFT Procedure Covered by Insurance?

LIFT Procedure may be covered by insurance when performed for medically necessary fistula treatment. Coverage depends on your policy and insurer approval.

Our insurance support team can assist with checking coverage, documentation, and cashless approval procedures.

Checking your policy coverage
Cashless approval process
Required documentation
Insurance-related queries before the procedure

Dr. Tagore Grandhi

Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon

During consultation, Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Proctologist at Lux Hospitals, will evaluate your fistula condition and recommend whether LIFT Procedure is suitable. She will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, recovery timeline, and provide an estimated cost based on your individual condition.

Consult Now Consult Now

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.

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