Effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging in grading of primary perianal fistula and its associated findings in correlation with surgical outcome

Perianal fistula is a common disorder with high tendency to recur in spite of satisfactory surgery. Pelvic MRI is the preferable imaging modality for recognition and assessment of perianal fistulas.

Aim of the work

To evaluate the effectiveness of MRI in grading of primary perianal fistula and verification of its associated findings in correlation with surgical outcome.

Subjects and methods

This prospective study included 30 patients with age range 14–44 years. Preoperative MR grading was correlated with surgical outcome.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and weighted Kappa of MR grading in correlation with surgery was 95.8%, 83.3%, 95.8%, 83.3% and 0.79 respectively with P value = 0.000

Conclusion

MRI is a valuable modality for grading of primary perianal fistula and its complications. Accurate pre-operative grading may reduce the surgical complications and possibility of recurrence.