A prospective randomized trial between subcutaneous lateral internal sphincterotomy with radiofrequency bistoury and conventional Parks' operation in the treatment of anal fissures

Background: Anal fissure is a frequent proctologic disease. There are many and various treatments adopted to cure this disease. In this study we applied radiofrequencies to the subcutaneous lateral internal sphincterotomy and we compared the techniques in a randomised trial. Methods: Patients have been randomized in two groups: in group A 18 patients underwent subcutaneous lateral internal sphincterotomy using radiofrequency bistoury while in group B 17 patients underwent the conventional lateral internal sphincterotomy described by Parks. Results: The mean values for operative time were 6.6 min for group A and 9.1 min for group B. According to pain score, patients' mean values were 1.8 for group A and 1.9 for group B. Healing of the wound was faster in group A than group B, while healing of the anal fissure was approximately the same. Conclusion: Lateral subcutaneous sphincterotomy is the most advantageous operation for the treatment of the idiopathic anal fissure. The radiofrequency bistoury easies the procedure, lessens operating times and healing process of the surgical wounds.