Goodsall's rule

Goodsall's rule is a medical rule used in the diagnosis and treatment of anal fistula. It was named after Sir David Goodsall, an English surgeon who first proposed the rule in 1900.

Overview

Goodsall's rule is a guideline that helps in predicting the course of an anal fistula tract. According to the rule, if the external opening of the fistula is located anterior to the transverse anal line, the fistula tract runs in a direct, radial course to the anal canal. If the external opening is located posterior to the transverse anal line, the fistula tract curves to the posterior midline and enters the anal canal in the midline.

Application

Goodsall's rule is used in the surgical management of anal fistulas. It helps surgeons to identify the internal opening of the fistula, which is crucial for successful treatment. However, the rule has limitations and is not always accurate. It is less reliable for fistulas with multiple external openings or those associated with Crohn's disease.

Limitations

While Goodsall's rule is a useful guideline, it is not always accurate. It is less reliable for fistulas with multiple external openings or those associated with Crohn's disease. In these cases, other diagnostic methods such as MRI or endosonography may be used to determine the course of the fistula tract.

See also

• Anal fistula
• Crohn's disease
• MRI
• Endosonography