Publication Name	World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery
Manuscript ID	113979
Country	China

Category	Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Manuscript Type	Meta-Analysis
Article Title	Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract vs conventional surgery for anal fistula in Chinese patients
Manuscript Source	Unsolicited Manuscript
All Author List	Xue Li, Cong-Cong Zhi, Xiao-Long Wang, Li-Hua Zheng and Yi-Cheng Cheng
Funding Agency and Grant Number	Funding Agency Grant Number the Clinical Research and Translational Promotion Project of China-Japan Friendship Hospital 2022-NHLHCRF-LX-02
Corresponding Author	Li-Hua Zheng, Department of Proctology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No. 11 Beisanhuan East Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China. zhenglihua0819@163.com
Key Words	Anal fistula; Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract; Systematic review and meta-analysis; Clinical efficacy; Clinical outcomes
Core Tip	Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract offers a sphincter-preserving alternative to conventional surgery for anal fistula. This systematic review of randomized controlled trials demonstrates that the procedure improves cure rates, reduces recurrence and complications, shortens wound-healing time, and better preserves anal function. These findings highlight its potential as a preferred treatment option and provide strong evidence for clinical decision-making.
Citation	Li X, Zhi CC, Wang XL, Zheng LH, Cheng YC. Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract vs conventional surgery for anal fistula in Chinese patients. World J Gastrointest Surg 2025; In press

Received	2025-09-10 06:52
Peer-Review Started	2025-09-10 06:52
First Decision by Editorial Office Director	2025-10-11 07:47
Return for Revision	2025-10-13 01:27
Revised	2025-10-26 17:45
Publication Fee Transferred	2025-10-30 06:45
Second Decision by Editor	2025-12-10 02:51
Second Decision by Editor-in-Chief
Final Decision by Editorial Office Director	2025-12-10 11:23
Articles in Press	2025-12-10 11:23
Edit the Manuscript by Language Editor
Typeset the Manuscript

ISSN	1948-9366 (online)
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