Pelvic three-dimensional ultrasound is a practical tool for assessing anal fistula

Abstract

Abstract Objective In this study, we investigated the diagnostic value of pelvic floor three-dimensional ultrasound for anal fistula. Methods Sixty-seven patients (62 males) with anal fistula were included in the study. All patients underwent pelvic floor three-dimensional ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging before the operation.. The type of fistula and the number of internal openings were documented. These parameters were compared with the postoperative outcomes. Results At surgery, 11(14%) were intersphincteric, 55(68%) transsphincteric, 10(12%) suprasphincteric and 5(6%) extrasphincteric. There were no significant differences(P > 0.05) in the accuracy rates of pelvic three-dimensional ultrasound and MRI, in terms of anal fistulas (97.01%, 94.03%), internal openings (97.92%, 94.79%) and those under Parks classification (97.53%, 93.83%). Conclusion Three-dimensional pelvic floor ultrasound is an accurate and reproducible method for detecting anal fistulas and internal openings, as well as determining the type of fistula.