Case History Review of 2.467, Anal Fistulae Surgically Treated with, the Method of Arnous's French School.

INTRODUCTION: Considering the extensive experience developed in 28 years of medical practice in a specialist facility dedicated to proctological surgery and the treatment of 2.467 patients presenting with an anal fistula, the authors review problems associated with this disease from an aetiopathogenic, classifying, diagnostic, and therapeutic viewpoint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The surgical treatment of Arnous's French School was adopted. The method envisions slow sectioning of the sphincter by means of elastic constriction, even dividing surgical sessions.

RESULTS: Results were excellent, recording 99.5% of complete healings, while failures and complications numbered 0.3% of incomplete healings, 0.2% of relapses, 2.8% of soiling, and 1.4% of transitory gas incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS: Correct diagnosis of the type of fistula, the choice of a perfect surgical technique, and thorough long-term follow-up of the postoperative progress of surgical wounds are the basic premises to achieve the patient's healing.