New Techniques in the Treatment of Common Perianal Diseases: Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy, Botulinum Toxin, and Fibrin Sealant

There have been several recent advances in the treatment of common perianal diseases. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is a procedure of hemorrhoidal fixation, combining the benefits of rubber band ligation into an operative technique. The treatment of anal fissure has typically relied upon internal sphincterotomy; however, it carries a risk of incontinence. The injection of botulinum toxin represents a new form of sphincter relaxation, without division of any sphincter muscle; morbidity is minimal and results are promising. For the treatment of fistula in a fistulotomy remains the gold standard, however, it carries significant risks of incontinence. Use of fibrin sealant to treat fistulae has been met with variable success. It offers sealing of the tract, and then provides scaffolding for native tissue ingrowth.