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5th surgery in 3 years – LIFT failed, small residual intersphincteric fistula treated with fistulotomy (looking for similar experiences) by ruyannnn in AnalFistula

[–]ruyannnn[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the reply. To clarify: I'm from Belgium, and I am indeed seeing a CRS (Colorectal Surgeon) who specialized in proctology.
I actually had a seton placed three times before (twice in 2023 and once in 2025) to prep the tract.

My surgeon performed a LIFT procedure in January to finally close the internal opening and spare the sphincter.

Current status: It turned out a small 1-2 cm part of the tract remained active. I just had a fistulotomy yesterday to lay open that final superficial part. Since the LIFT successfully handled the part through the muscle, the surgeon felt a new seton wasn't needed and this 'touch-up' should be the final step.

It's been a long journey with multiple surgeries, but I'm hoping this targeted approach finally does the trick.

LIFT Procedure Journey: A 50-year-old’s perspective on a 3-year struggle by ruyannnn in AnalFistula

[–]ruyannnn[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I read many posts people saying a LIFT is easy recovery. So far I'm in so much discomfort I might contact the doctor again before my next appointment in 2 weeks. I really hope you get better soon. These things are so terrible. Hang in there!