LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Track) is a surgical procedure used to treat complex anal fistulas. An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. LIFT is a variation of the traditional fistula surgery, which aims to preserve the sphincter muscle and reduce the risk of incontinence.

During the LIFT procedure, the surgeon identifies the intersphincteric fistula tract, which is the portion of the fistula that runs between the internal and external sphincter muscles, and ligates (ties off) the blood supply to it. This causes the fistula to shrink and eventually heal. Unlike traditional fistula surgery, LIFT preserves the integrity of the sphincter muscles and reduces the risk of incontinence.

Recovery time varies depending on the individual but generally patients are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks and full recovery can take several months.