EVALUATION OF RISK FACTORS, SURGICAL REPAIR TECHNIQUES, AND POSTOPERATIVE OUTCOMES IN PATIENTS WITH OBSTETRIC ANAL SPHINCTER INJURY: A RETROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract Aim: This study aims to evaluate the risk factors, surgical repair techniques, and postoperative outcomes of third- and fourth-degree obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS). Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study included 29 patients who underwent primary sphincteroplasty for OASIS. Data were collected from hospital electronic records and operative reports. Variables such as degree of laceration, repair technique (end-to-end or overlapping), suture material, and postoperative complications were analyzed. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Wexner fecal incontinence score when available. Results: Most patients were primiparous, with a mean maternal age of 25.6 years. Type 3B tears were the most common (48.3%). The end-to-end technique was used in 69% of cases, and Vicryl was the most commonly used suture material. Among the 9 patients with available Wexner scores, 3 reported no fecal incontinence, while 2 had a score of 8. The majority of repairs were performed by obstetricians. Conclusion: Individualized, anatomically precise, and technically meticulous repair is essential in OASIS management. Adherence to principles such as layered closure and appropriate technique selection may enhance continence outcomes. However, larger, long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings and optimize care strategies.