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MasaratDr. Mohammed Hatem Alsubaih · Consultant Colorectal Surgeon
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PATIENT GUIDE

LIFT vs advancement flap: why there is no single fistula operation for everyone

Masarat is created and supervised by Dr. Mohammed Hatem Alsubaih, Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon.

LIFT ligates the tract between the sphincter muscles; an advancement flap covers the internal opening with tissue. Both aim to limit muscle division, but neither suits every anatomy or guarantees healing.

Masarat medical libraryEditorial update:

How do the procedures differ?

LIFT ligates the tract between the sphincter muscles; an advancement flap covers the internal opening with tissue. Both aim to limit muscle division, but neither suits every anatomy or guarantees healing.

What favours one option?

Tract and opening location, tissue quality, rectal inflammation, scarring, previous surgery and baseline continence matter. Drainage or a seton may precede closure. A study percentage is not a personalised forecast.

Which outcomes should I compare?

Discuss healing, repeat procedures and continence separately, including definitions and follow-up duration. Ask how the recommendation fits your images and examination and what happens if healing is incomplete.

Sources and preparation

References support general information; preparation examples and questions do not select an individual treatment plan.

How content is prepared · Research and professional identity
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