Prospective Study of Functional Disorders and Quality of Life Following Surgical Management of Perianal Fistulas
Perianal fistulas are a chronic anorectal condition associated with significant morbidity, including pain, persistent discharge, infection, and impaired continence, all of which can substantially affect patients' quality of life. Surgical management aims to eradicate the fistulous tract while preserving anal sphincter function and continence. Despite numerous available surgical techniques, high-quality comparative evidence regarding optimal management remains limited. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate clinical outcomes, functional outcomes, and patient-reported quality of life following surgical treatment of perianal fistulas. The study will collect both clinician-reported and patient-reported outcomes over a 12-month follow-up period. Outcomes of interest include fistula healing, recurrence, postoperative complications, continence status, symptom burden, and health-related quality of life. The findings are expected to provide real-world data that may inform clinical decision-making and contribute to improved patient-centered care.
• Age ≥ 18 years.
• Clinically and/or radiologically confirmed perianal fistula (primary or recurrent).
• Planned definitive surgical treatment (any sphincter-dividing or sphincter-preserving technique).
• Ability to understand and complete study questionnaires.
• Commitment to attend follow-up visits at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (or to complete remote assessments).
• Signed written informed consent.