LIFT — Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Track
LIFT is a sphincter-preserving procedure that ligates (ties off) the fistula tract in the intersphincteric space — high success rate with zero incontinence risk.
Watch & Learn
What is Anal Fistula? — Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
About This Treatment
LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Track) is a modern sphincter-preserving surgical technique for treating intersphincteric and transsphincteric fistulas. The surgeon makes a small incision in the groove between the internal and external sphincter (the intersphincteric space), identifies the fistula tract, and ligates (ties off) both ends before excising the intervening tract.
By working in the intersphincteric space rather than cutting through sphincter muscle, LIFT achieves complete healing of the fistula without any division of sphincter tissue. This makes it ideal for transsphincteric fistulas where fistulotomy would carry significant incontinence risk.
At Shraddha Hospital, our colorectal surgeons have extensive experience with LIFT, achieving success rates of 75–85% — comparable to other sphincter-preserving techniques but with the advantage of a shorter recovery time.
Key Benefits
Sphincter Fully Protected
No sphincter muscle is cut or divided — zero risk of incontinence.
High Success Rate
75–85% primary healing rate. Suitable for complex transsphincteric fistulas.
Faster Healing than Seton
Patients heal faster than with long-term seton (thread) techniques.
Before Treatment
- 01
MRI fistulography to confirm intersphincteric/transsphincteric track and absence of secondary tracts.
- 02
No active infection at time of surgery — any acute abscess must be drained first.
- 03
Standard pre-op blood tests and fasting from midnight before surgery.
After Treatment
- 01
Day-care or overnight admission. Most patients go home the same day.
- 02
Small external wound — keep clean and dry with sitz baths twice daily.
- 03
Stool softeners and high-fiber diet for 4 weeks.
- 04
Avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks.
- 05
Follow-up at 1 week and 6 weeks to assess healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sphincter-Safe Surgery for Complex Fistulas
LIFT gives you the best chance of complete fistula healing without compromising your bowel control. Consult our specialists.