Anorectal abscesses and fistulas

Abstract

Anorectal abscesses and fistulas are among the most frequently observed anorectal lesions. As anorectal abscesses frequently result in more or less complex and extensive fistulous tracts, the two pathologies should be regarded as the same condition. Abscesses and fistulas are two phases of the same disease, fistulous abscess [21]. However, for practical and therapeutic reasons, they should be considered separately, except regarding aetiology and spread of infection. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.