Morbidity and oncological outcomes after intersphincteric resection of the rectum for low-lying rectal cancer: experience of a single center in a lower-middle-income country.

Background: Intersphincteric resection (ISR) of the rectum for low-lying rectal cancer with colo-anal anastomosis was introduced years ago, allowing for bowel continuity, and avoiding permanent stomas. The colorectal unit of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital adopted this procedure in 2014 when indicated, for the management of rectal cancers, where hitherto, abdominoperineal resection of the rectum with a permanent stoma was indicated. This study aimed to assess morbidity, mortality, and oncological outcomes associated with ISR of the rectum and determine the factors contributing to these.

Clinicopathological determinants of recurrence after surgical treatment of fistula-in-ano in a Ghanaian teaching hospital.

Aim: The aim of this work is to describe the clinicopathological and surgical aspects of fistula-in-ano and assess the risks associated with recurrence of the disease in a Ghanaian teaching hospital.

Method: This was a retrospective observational study assessing all fistula-in-ano surgeries performed at the Korle Bu Teaching hospital from January 2014 to January 2021 that had completed follow up of at least 3 months after wound healing. Demographic, clinical, pathological and surgical data were extracted from patient records.