We are pleased to announce a special edition of Techniques in Coloproctology titled “Cutting Edge Updates in Perianal Crohn’s Disease”. This edition aims to explore the latest advancements in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of perianal Crohn’s disease, a complex and debilitating manifestation of Crohn’s disease affecting a significant portion of patients. We invite submissions that address the epidemiological trends in perianal disease, including its prevalence across different populations and risk factors contributing to its onset and severity. Insights into the evolving diagnostic landscape, including the role of imaging modalities such as MRI and endoanal ultrasound, as well as biomarkers, are particularly welcome.

This special issue will also focus on advancements in both medical and surgical therapies. Topics of interest include the integration of biologic therapies, the emerging role of small molecules like Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and the optimization of treatment regimens for fistulizing disease. Furthermore, we encourage contributions discussing the latest techniques in surgical intervention, such as sphincter-sparing procedures, seton placement, and the application of stem cell therapy in complex fistula repair. We hope to provide a comprehensive overview that will serve as a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers dedicated to improving outcomes in perianal Crohn’s disease.

A short list of topics of interest:

Behind the scenes: basic science, epidemiology and classification of perianal Crohn’s disease

Non-fistulizing perianal Crohn’s disease: clinical implications

Improving diagnosis of perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease: present and future imaging tools

Outcome measurement in perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease

Preparing the patient: initial surgical approach before medical therapy

Advanced medical therapies for perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease: how can clinicians help?

Advancement flaps in perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease: technical steps and current evidence

To LIFT or not to LIFT? Ligation of intersphincteric tract in Crohn’s disease perianal fistulas

Scoping the tracts: VAAFT in perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease

Needles for healing: stem cells, platelet-enriched plasma and fat injection in perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease

When nothing else matters: protectomy for complex perianal Crohn’s disease