Complex Anterior Supralevator Anal Fistula With Prostatic Abscess Treated With Ksharasutra: A Case Report

Abstract

Anorectal diseases are a major health threat in the field of health sciences. Fistula-in-ano is one of the treatable complex benign lesions of the rectum and anal canal. Complex high anal fistulas can reoccur even after surgical treatment. Establishing a cure for cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano is problematic, as a significant percentage of these diseases persist or recur if the internal opening of the anal fistula is left untreated. Here, we report a case of complex left anterolateral supralevator anal fistula with communication to the prostate gland that forms a prostatic abscess, as it is very rare. After following Ksharasutra (Ayurvedic medicated seton) treatment with regular wound care, significant regression in the condition was observed. A follow-up scan showed no evidence of fistula-in-ano. A 50-year-old businessman presented with complaints of discomfort deep inside the rectum and perineum associated with pain at the base of the scrotum and pus discharge from the perianal region for 1 year. He was diagnosed to have a complex left anterolateral supralevator anal fistula with communication to the prostate substance after a thorough clinical examination and transrectal ultrasonography. After undergoing Ksharasutra treatment for 4 months, pus discharge completely stopped, and sonofistulogram report showed no evidence of fistula-in-ano. Images of the sonofistulogram report were documented before and after the treatment. This article highlights the unique feature of Ksharasutra therapy where the fistula extending to the prostate was treated with no loss of function of the anal sphincter.