Managing perianal Crohn's fistula in the anti-TNF[alpha] era

Perianal fistulas in Crohn's disease are common and difficult to treat. Their aetiology is poorly understood. Assessment is clinical, endoscopic and radiological, and management is undertaken by a multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, surgeons and radiologists. Surgical drainage of the fistula tract system with the placement of loose setons precedes combined therapy with immunosuppressant and anti-TNF[alpha] agents in most patients. Proctitis should be rigorously eliminated where possible. Definitive surgical repair is sometimes possible and diversion or proctectomy are occasionally required. Combined medical and surgical management represents a promising avenue for the future.