Effectiveness of Combined Radial and Transcutaneous Linear Echo in the Diagnosis for Anal Pyoderma and Low Intermuscular Anal Fistula

Abstract

Diagnosis of anal pyoderma and anal fistula by palpation is a common but extremely difficult method. We studied the effectiveness of ultrasonic examination as a supplementary diagnostic modality by examining 50 cases of pyoderma and 100 cases of low intermuscular anal fistula to determine which of the two diagnostic methods-palpation alone or ultrasound combining radial and transcutaneous linear echo-is more consistent with the surgical findings. The diagnostic accuracy of palpation alone was 60% for pyoderma and 86% for anal fistula, which increased to 94% and 99%, respectively, with ultrasonic diagnosis. Additionally, the transcutaneous linear probe can qualitatively diagnose soft tissue tumors such as atheromas and lipomas. Preoperative ultrasound is thus an extremely effective supplemental diagnostic modality.