PERIANAL ABSCESS AND FISTULA-IN-ANO IN INFANTS

Purpose: The aim of this study was to obtain insight into the short- a nd long-term results of treatment of perianal abscess and fistula-in-a no in infants. Methods: This is a retrospective study of the records o f patients treated over a 21-year period from January 1974 until Decem ber 1994 in a Pediatric Surgical Center. A longterm (1 to 24 year, mea n 7.74 year) follow-up by questionaire (response 81%) is also included . Results: Drainage of a perianal abscess is followed in 35% of cases by a fistula. Fistulotomy or fistulectomy is followed in 13% of cases by a recurrence. There were two long-term recurrences that both healed spontaneously. The persisting scar sometimes gives problems with anal cleaning. All children aged 3 years and older were continent for fece s. In two, there was soiling for some time. One had constipation and o ne was incontinent during the night. Conclusions: Simple drainage of a perianal abscess is followed frequently by a fistula. Fistulotomy or fistulectomy of a fistula-in-ano in infants has a reasonable chance of recurrence in the short term. Long-term recurrences are exceptional. There are no serious disabilities in the long run. Copyright (C) 1998 by W.B. Saunders Company.