Surgical repair of complex anal fistula using enhanced techniques

The BIO RAMP Trial - BIOlogic Augmented Repair of Complex Anal Fistula Using Acellular Matrix and/or Autologous Platelet-rich Plasma

NA · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT05805449

This study is testing if adding special treatments like platelet-rich plasma or pig bladder to surgery for complex anal fistulas can help people heal better and have fewer problems afterward compared to regular surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston (other)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05805449 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of augmenting surgical repair of complex anal fistulas with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and/or acellular porcine urinary bladder matrix compared to standard surgical care. It will assess outcomes such as fistula recurrence, postoperative pain, and fecal continence, as well as the cost-effectiveness of these augmented techniques. Participants will undergo surgical procedures like LIFT or advancement flap, and the study will involve a follow-up period of 12 months to monitor results.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with complex cryptoglandular transsphincteric anal fistulas who are undergoing surgical repair.

Not a fit: Patients with primary platelet disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, or those unable to complete follow-up may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the recurrence of anal fistulas and improve patients' quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using similar augmentation techniques for surgical repairs, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* complex cryptoglandular transsphincteric anal fistula undergoing surgical repair by LIFT or advancement flap procedure
* English or Spanish speaking and capable of providing informed consent
* Willing to undergo temporary anal seton drainage for requisite time prior to repair
* Participating surgeons will only be eligible if they perform at least 3 repair procedures/year

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to reliably complete follow up for 12 months postoperatively
* Primary platelet disorders
* Thrombocytopenia \< 150 plt/microliter
* Inability to stop anti-platelet agent \> 5 days preoperatively
* Fistula associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), malignancy or pelvic/perineal radiation

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Anal Fistula

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.