Perianal suppuration: results of treatment

Perianal suppuration (PAS) is a common surgical problem that is frequently treated inadequately. A series of 101 patients with PAS was reviewed. Thirty-six patients had a history of PAS. Fifty patients had drainage of a perianal abscess; six patients developed fistulas in ano and in two recurrent abscess developed (total, 16%). Thirty-six patients had fistulotomy for established anal fistula: three patients (8%) had recurrent fistulas. Fifteen patients had single-stage drainage of abscess and fistulotomy, and none had recurrent or residual PAS. All patients ultimately achieved healing. These results illustrate the fact that satisfactory results in the treatment of PAS can be obtained by surgeons if established principles of treatment are observed.