Goodsall's rule
Goodsall's rule
Goodsall's rule (/ɡʊdˈsɔːl/; from the English surgeon David Henry Goodsall) is a medical guideline used in the diagnosis and treatment of anal fistulas.
Etymology
The rule is named after David Henry Goodsall, an English surgeon who first described it in 1891.
Definition
Goodsall's rule is a clinical guideline that helps in predicting the course of an anal fistula based on the external opening's location. According to the rule, if the fistula's external opening is located anterior to the transverse anal line, it is likely to follow a direct radial course to the anal canal. However, if the external opening is posterior to the transverse anal line, the fistula is likely to follow a curved path to the posterior midline of the anal canal.
Related Terms
- Anal fistula: An abnormal connection between the epithelialised surface of the anal canal and the perianal skin.
- Transverse anal line: An imaginary line drawn across the anus, used as a reference point in Goodsall's rule.
- Posterior midline: The middle line at the back of the body, used as a reference point in Goodsall's rule.
Application
Goodsall's rule is used in the diagnosis and treatment planning of anal fistulas. It helps surgeons predict the course of the fistula, which can aid in surgical planning and potentially improve patient outcomes. However, it's important to note that the rule has its limitations and may not apply to all cases, particularly complex or recurrent fistulas.
Limitations
While Goodsall's rule is widely used, it is not universally applicable. It is most accurate for simple fistulas and less so for complex or recurrent ones. Additionally, it does not apply to anterior fistulas in women due to the presence of the vagina.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Goodsall's rule
- Wikipedia's article - Goodsall's rule
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