Long term Outcomes of Surgical Treatment and Anatomical Characteristics of Acute and Chronic Cryptoglandular Anal Fistula Following Surgery

Background and Objective: Cryptoglandular anal fistula often recurs after surgery, especially with complex anatomy. This study evaluated healing, recurrence, anatomical patterns, and recurrence predictors in patients treated during acute abscess or chronic fistula stages. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 320 adults who underwent anatomy-tailored surgery for cryptoglandular anal fistula at Rayong Hospital (2012–2025). Patients were classified into acute abscess (n=142) or chronic fistula (n=178) groups. Anatomy was assessed via systematic mapping, supplemented by MRI in complex or recurrent cases.