MRI of perianal fistulae: a pictorial kaleidoscope. Issue 12 (December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kumar, N.; Agarwal, Y.; Chawla, A. Singh; Jain, R.; Thukral, B. Bhushan
• Is Part Of: Clinical radiology. Volume 70:Issue 12(2015)
• Page Start: 1451
• Page End: 1461
• Publication Date: 2015-12
• Subjects: Medical radiology -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Radiology -- Periodicals; Societies, Medical -- Periodicals; Medical radiology; Radiotherapy; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2015.09.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0009-9260

Abstract

Abstract : Perianal fistulae are an abnormal communication between the anorectum and the perianal skin. A seemingly benign condition, it can be a cause of considerable distress to the patient if it is not mapped out adequately before embarking upon surgical correction. The persistence of residual disease complicates and up-stages the grade of the remnant fistula with increased risk of anal incontinence following surgery secondary to damage to the anal sphincter complex. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can play a critical role in mapping the fistulae tract in relation to the anal sphincter complex and hence, act as a reliable guide for the surgeon to chart the optimised management of perianal fistulae. This review illustrates the role of MRI in the imaging evaluation of perianal fistulae, to facilitate a well-planned surgical course.