History of Anal Fistulas

The recorded history of anal fistulas dates back to the Ancient Greeks, but no fistula in history has been as well or interestingly documented as that of Louis XIV, the Sun-King of France. His story illustrates not only the state (or lack thereof) of medicine at the time, but also the first recorded use of the fistulotomy. This narrative provides a unique perspective for the role of the surgeon in 17th century France as well as cementing the place of cryptoglandular fistula disease in history.

Source: Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery - August 27, 2014 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Robert D. Fry Source Type: research