Ligation-anopexy for treatment of advanced hemorrhoidal disease

Randomized Controlled Trial to Compare Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy Plus Ligation Anopexy With Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy for Managing Grade III and IV Hemorrhoidal Disease

BACKGROUND

Despite the benefits of the stapled hemorrhoidopexy in the short term, management of prolapsing hemorrhoids, the long-term results are still insufficient regarding recurrent prolapse and patient satisfaction. The current study investigates the addition of ligation anopexy to stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

OBJECTIVE

Valuation of adding ligation anopexy to stapled hemorrhoidopexy in improving short-term and long-term results in the treatment of grade III and IV hemorrhoids.

DATA SOURCES

Between January 2018 and January 2020, we recruited 124 patients with grade III and IV hemorrhoids at Alexandria Main University Hospital.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized controlled trial.

INTERVENTIONS

One hundred twenty-four patients were blindly randomly assigned to 2 equal groups: stapled hemorrhoidopexy (group I) and stapled hemorrhoidopexy plus ligation anopexy (group II).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Recurrence of hemorrhoids and patient satisfaction after a follow-up period of at least 2 years.

RESULTS

The average operating time was noticeably less in the stapled hemorrhoidopexy group. Postoperative pain, analgesia requirement, hemorrhoid symptoms score, return to work, complications rate, and quality of life 1 month after surgery were similar between groups. Following a mean follow-up of 36 months (interval, 24-47), in group I, 10 patients (16%) reported recurrent external swelling and/or prolapse compared to 3 patients (5%) in group II ( p  = 0.0368). Five patients in group I required redo surgery, whereas no patients required redo surgery in group II. Long-term patient satisfaction was significantly better in group II.

LIMITATIONS

It was a single-center experience, so longer follow-up was needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy and stapled hemorrhoidopexy plus ligation anopexy were similar in short-term results with regard to complications rate, hemorrhoids symptoms score, return to work, and quality of life. Long-term results were significantly better with regard to recurrence of external swelling and/or prolapse and patient satisfaction after stapled hemorrhoidopexy plus ligation anopexy. See Video Abstract .

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Pan African Clinical Trials Registry identifier PACTR20180100293130.

ECA PARA COMPARAR LA HEMORROIDOPEXIA CON GRAPAS MS ANOPEXIA POR LIGADURA CON LA HEMORROIDOPEXIA CON GRAPAS PARA EL TRATAMIENTO DE LA ENFERMEDAD HEMORROIDAL DE GRADO III Y IV

ANTECEDENTES:A pesar de los beneficios de la hemorroidopexia con grapas a corto plazo, el manejo de las hemorroides prolapsadas, los resultados a largo plazo aún son insuficientes en cuanto al prolapso recurrente y la satisfacción del paciente, por lo que en nuestro estudio actual agregamos anopexia por ligadura a la hemorroidopexia con grapas.OBJETIVO:Valoración de añadir anopexia por ligadura a la hemorroidopexia con grapas para mejorar los resultados a corto y largo plazo en el tratamiento de las hemorroides grado III-IV.FUENTES DE DATOS:Entre enero de 2018 y enero de 2020 reclutamos a 124 pacientes con hemorroides de grado III-IV en el hospital universitario principal de Alexandria.SELECCIÓN DEL ESTUDIO:Ensayo controlado aleatorio PACTR201801002931307.INTERVENCIÓN(S):124 pacientes fueron asignados al azar de forma ciega a dos grupos iguales, hemorroidopexia con grapas (grupo I) y hemorroidopexia con grapas más anopexia por ligadura (grupo II).PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Recurrencia de hemorroides y satisfacción del paciente después de un período de seguimiento de al menos dos años.RESULTADOS:El tiempo operatorio promedio fue notablemente menor en el grupo de hemorroidopexia con grapas. Mientras tanto, el dolor posoperatorio, la necesidad de analgesia, la puntuación de los síntomas de hemorroides, el regreso al trabajo, la tasa de complicaciones y la calidad de vida un mes después de la cirugía fueron similares. Después de un seguimiento medio de 36 meses (intervalo: 24-47), el Grupo I, 10 pacientes (16%) se quejaron de inflamación externa recurrente y/o prolapso en comparación con 3 pacientes (5%) en el Grupo II ( p = 0,0368) que requiere rehacer la cirugía. No fue necesaria una nueva cirugía en el grupo II; además, la satisfacción del paciente a largo plazo fue significativamente mejor en el grupo II.LIMITACIONES:Se necesita un seguimiento más prolongado y experiencia en un solo centro.CONCLUSIONES:La hemorroidopexia con grapas comparada con la hemorroidopexia con grapas más anopexia por ligadura fue similar en resultados a corto plazo en cuanto a tasa de complicaciones, puntuación de síntomas de hemorroides, regreso al trabajo y calidad de vida. Los resultados a largo plazo fueron significativamente mejores en cuanto a la recurrencia de la inflamación externa y/o el prolapso y la satisfacción del paciente después de la hemorroidopexia con grapas más anopexia por ligadura. (Traducción-Dr. Mauricio Santamaria ).

Transanal open haemorrhoidopexy: a well-tolerated, minimally invasive surgical method for haemorrhoids grade II to IV

BACKGROUND

To determine 1-year postoperative recurrence rates, postoperative pain and complication rates of transanal open haemorrhoidopexy applied also in grade IV haemorrhoids.

METHODS

Single-centre retrospective observational study without control group. The primary outcome was recurrence rate after 1 year postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were length of postoperative pain, use of opiates and postoperative complications. The recurrence rate was assessed with the Sodergren haemorrhoid symptom severity score questionnaire. For information on the early postoperative period, a retrospective chart review based on the routine 3-month clinical follow-up was done.

RESULTS

135 consecutive patients with haemorrhoids Goligher grades II-IV were operated with transanal open haemorrhoidopexy. 88 patients (65%) consented to participate in the study when approached later via mail. 23% of patients had haemorrhoids Goligher grade IV. 15 patients (17%) needed a second transanal open haemorrhoidopexy for residual haemorrhoidal prolapse. The recurrence rate of prolapsing haemorrhoids was 15% (13 patients) 1 year postoperatively. 21% of patients reported no postoperative pain, 54% described pain for a duration of up to 1 week and 22% for up to 2 weeks. Two patients reported a longer duration of pain of 3 and 4 weeks, respectively. No complications grade Clavien-Dindo III or higher were detected.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study indicate that transanal open haemorrhoidopexy has a recurrence rate comparable to traditional haemorrhoidectomy including grade IV haemorrhoids and is associated with less pain and tissue damage. A randomized controlled trial may provide further support for the routine application of this method, but may pose challenges.

[Comparison of Doppler-assisted dearterialization with mucopexy and hemorrhoidectomy]

AIM

To compare two methods of hemorrhoid treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This prospective study included 240 patients with hemorrhoids stage III-IVA. Stages III and IVA were diagnosed in 156 (65%) and 84 (35%) patients respectively. Randomization was performed using envelopes method in one to one distribution. In group 1 (n=120) Doppler-assisted dearterialization of internal hemorrhoids with mucopexy was performed (DDM), in group 2 (n=120) - hemorrhoidectomy using harmonic scalpel (HE).

RESULTS

Duration of surgery was 17.9±6.1 and 34.5±10.1 minutes in DDM and HE groups respectively (p<0.01). Postoperative pain severity was higher in group 2 (4.8 compared with 2.5 scores of the first group (p<0.01). Narcotic analgesics were used less often in DDM group (1.3 doses compared with 6.1 doses in HE group (p<0.01). Disability period was 14.4±5.2 and 30.3±5.4 days in both groups respectively (p<0.01). Immediate postoperative complications occurred in 9 (7.5%) and 19 (15.8%) patients of DDM and HE groups respectively. Recurrent prolapse of internal hemorrhoids was diagnosed in 2 (1.7%) patients of the 1st group in terms of up to 45 days.

CONCLUSION

DDM is reliable minimally invasive method of hemorrhoids stage III-IVA treatment and has similar efficacy with HE. DDM reduces postoperative pain severity, hospital stay and disability period.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Suture-Fixation Mucopexy and Doppler-Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation in Patients with Grade III Hemorrhoids

Background. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a suture-fixation mucopexy procedure by comparing with Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHAL) in the management of patients with grade III hemorrhoids. Methods. This was a randomized controlled trial. One hundred patients with grade III hemorrhoids were randomly assigned to receive suture-fixation mucopexy (n = 50) or DGHAL (n = 50). Outcome assessments were performed at 2 weeks, 12 months, and 24 months. Assessments included resolution of clinical symptoms, postoperative complications, duration of hospitalization, and total costs. Results. At 2 weeks, one (2%) patient in suture-fixation group and four (8%) patients in DGHAL group had persistent prolapsing hemorrhoids. Postoperative bleeding was observed in two patients (4%) in suture-fixation group and one patient in DGHAL group. There was no significant difference in short-term recurrence between groups. Postoperative complications and duration of hospitalization were comparable between the two groups. Rates of recurrence of prolapse or bleeding at 12 months did not differ between groups. However, recurrence of prolapse at 24 months was significantly more common in DGHAL group (19.0% versus 2.3%, p = 0.030). Conclusions. Compared with DGHAL, the suture-fixation mucopexy technique had comparable short-term outcomes and favorable long-term outcomes.

Recent advances in the management of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are considered one of the most common anorectal diseases with a prevalence of 4.4% up to 36.4% of the general population, and a peak incidence between 45 and 65 years. Hemorrhoidal disease presents with a prolapsed lump, painless bleeding, discomfort, discharge, hygiene problems, soiling, and pruritus. Sliding anal canal lining theory is the most accepted theory as a cause of hemorrhoidal disease; however, it is also associated with hyper-vascularity, and, recently, with several enzymes or mediators involved in the disintegration of the tissues supporting the anal cushions, such as matrix metalloproteinase. A comprehensive search in published English-language literature till 2013 involving hemorrhoids was performed to construct this review article, which discusses advances in the management of hemorrhoids. This includes conservative treatment (life style modification, oral medications, and topical treatment), office procedures (rubber band ligation, injection sclerotherapy, infrared and radiofrequency coagulation, bipolar diathermy and direct-current electrotherapy, cryosurgery, and laser therapy), as well as surgical procedures including diathermy hemorrhoidectomy, LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy, Harmonic scalpel hemorrhoidectomy, hemorrhoidal artery ligation, stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH), and double SH. Results, merits and demerits of the different modalities of treatment of hemorrhoids are presented, in addition to the cost of the recent innovations.

Ligation anopexy versus hemorrhoidectomy in the treatment of second- and third-degree hemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to compare ligation anopexy (LA) and conventional hemorrhoidectomy (CH) in treatment of second- and third-degree hemorrhoids.

METHODS

A prospective controlled randomized clinical trial included 100 patients who underwent CH (CH group) and 100 patients who underwent LA (LA group). A detailed history was taken from all the patients. The effectiveness, safety, postoperative complications, operative time, length of hospital stay, time until first bowel movement, time until return to work, and postoperative pain score were assessed.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between groups regarding age, sex, and preoperative symptoms. The LA group had significantly shorter operative times, earlier first bowel movement, and an earlier return to work/activities. The postoperative pain score in the LA group was significantly lower than that in the CH group on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 after surgery. There was no significant difference between groups as regards postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

LA is safe, and as effective as CH in the treatment of grade II and grade III hemorrhoids, with shorter operative times, earlier mobilization, and lower postoperative pain scores.

Dearterialization with mucopexy versus haemorrhoidectomy for grade III or IV haemorrhoids: short-term results of a double-blind randomized controlled trial

AIM

There is scepticism regarding anatomical rationale and Doppler guidance for ligation of haemorrhoidal arteries. The null hypothesis of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was that there is no difference in pain following dearterialization or haemorrhoidectomy for grade III/IV internal haemorrhoids in a minimum of three quadrants.

METHOD

This was a single-centre, double-blind RCT. Patients were allocated to dearterialization or haemorrhoidectomy. Included haemorrhoids were grade III, prolapsing but reducible; and grade IV, chronic non-incarcerated. The primary end-point was pain. Patients with external component, acute incarcerated grade IV or recurrent haemorrhoids were not included. The interventions were dearterialization (with Doppler guidance and mucopexy) or haemorrhoidectomy. The main outcome measure was the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI).

RESULTS

Twenty dearterialization patients were comparable to 20 haemorrhoidectomy patients for age (P = 0.107), body mass index (P = 0.559), race (P = 0.437), American Society of Anesthesiology score (P = 0.569), comorbidities (P = 0.592), grade (P = 0.096), quadrants (P = 0.222), Fecal Incontinence Quality-of-Life Score (FIQOL; P = 0.388), coping (P = 0.532), depression (P = 0.505), embarrassment (P = 0.842), and Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) physical components (P = 0.337), SF-12 mental components (P = 0.396) and constipation (P = 0.628) scores. Dearterialization patients had shorter operative time (36 vs 54 min, P = 0.043) with less pain (P = 0.011) and urinary retention (P = 0.012). Dearterialization patients had first bowel movement earlier (1.3 vs 4.6 days, P = 0.001), less pain (P = 0.011) and lower pain intensity (P = 0.001). Narcotic requirements were reduced in dearterialization patients (25% vs 100%, P = 0.001), with less medication (4.9 vs 112 pills, P = 0.001) and shorter regimen (0 vs 7 days, P = 0.001). BPI did not differ on days 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 except for less pain in dearterialization patients. At 3 months, symptomatic relief was the same with no differences in BPI, FIQOL or SF-12.

CONCLUSION

Compared with haemorrhoidectomy, dearterialization led to less pain in grade III/IV haemorrhoids.

Clinical Outcome Following Hemorrhoid Surgery: a Narrative Review

Surgical therapy guaranties satisfactory results, which are significantly better than those obtained with conservative therapies, especially for Grade III and IV hemorrhoids. In this review, we present and discuss the results of the most diffuse surgical techniques for hemorrhoids. Traditional surgery for hemorrhoids aims to remove the hemorrhoids, with closure (Fergusson's technique) or without closure (Milligan-Morgan procedure) of the ensuing defect. This traditional approach is effective, but causes a significant postoperative pain because of wide external wounds in the innervated perianal skin. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy, proposed by Longo, has gained a vast acceptance because of less postoperative pain and faster return to normal activities. In the recent literature, a significant incidence of recurrence after stapled hemorrhoidopexy was reported, when compared with conventional hemorrhoidectomy. Double stapler hemorrhoidopexy may be an alternative to simple stapled hemorrhoidopexy to reduce the recurrence in advanced hemorrhoidal prolapse. Transanal hemorrhoidal deartertialization was showed to be as effective as stapled hemorrhoidopexy in terms of treatment success, complications, and incidence recurrence. However, further high-quality trials are recommended to assess the efficacy and safety of this technique.

[Consensus statement haemorrhoidal disease]

Haemorrhoidal disease belongs to the most common benign disorders in the lower gastrointestinal tract. Treatment options comprise conservative as well as surgical therapy still being applied arbitrarily in accordance with the surgeon's expertise. The aim of this consensus statement was therefore to assess a stage-dependent approach for treatment of haemorrhoidal disease to derive evidence-based recommendations for clinical routine. The most common methods are discussed with respect of haemorrhoidal disease in extraordinary conditions like pregnancy or inflammatory bowel disease and recurrent haemorrhoids. Tailored haemorrhoidectomy is preferable for individualized treatment with regard to the shortcomings of the traditional Goligher classification in solitary or circular haemorrhoidal prolapses.

Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation does not offer any advantage over suture ligation of grade 3 symptomatic hemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

Doppler-guided ligation of hemorrhoidal vessels is being proposed as a treatment of grade 2 and 3 hemorrhoids. Many researchers are coupling this procedure with mucopexy or lifting of hemorrhoids to control the prolapse more effectively. The present study was conducted in patients with 3rd-degree hemorrhoids to determine the usefulness of Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation compared to mucopexy of prolapsing hemorrhoids and to compare it with mere mucopexy of the hemorrhoids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A double-blind, randomized controlled study was conducted on 48 consecutive patients with grade III hemorrhoids requiring surgery. The patients were randomized into two groups. Half of them were treated with ligation and mucopexy [SL], while the remaining patients underwent a Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation followed by ligation and mucopexy [DSL]. The patients were examined by a blinded independent observer at 2, 4, and 6 weeks and at the end of 1 year after the operation to evaluate postoperative pain scores, amount of analgesics consumed, and complications encountered. The observer also assessed recurrence of hemorrhoids after 1 year.

RESULTS

Operative time was significantly longer in the DSL group (31 min vs. 9 min P < 0.003). The postoperative pain score was significantly higher in the Doppler group [4.4 vs. 2.2, P < 0.002 (visual analogue scale)]. The mean total analgesic dose and duration of pain control using analgesics were greater and longer for the Doppler group than for the SL group (17 vs. 11 tablets, and 13 days vs. 9 days, respectively; P < 0. 01). Complications were similar in both the groups. At 1-year follow-up, the recurrence of hemorrhoids was not statistically significant in either group (4 patients in SL group and 3 patients in DSL group; P < 0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Suture ligation of hemorrhoids is a simple, cost-effective, and convenient modality for treating grade 3 hemorrhoids. Doppler assistance in ligating the hemorrhoidal vessels prior to hemorrhoidal mucopexy offers no advantage and is a time-consuming procedure.

Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation, rectoanal repair, sutured haemorrhoidopexy and minimal mucocutaneous excision for grades III-IV haemorrhoids: a multicenter prospective study of safety and efficacy

OBJECTIVE

The isolated use of Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHAL) may fail for advanced haemorrhoids (HR; grades III and IV). Suture haemorrhoidopexy (SHP) and mucopexy by rectoanal repair (RAR) result in haemorrhoidal lifting and fixation. A prospective evaluation was performed to evaluate the results of DGHAL combined with adjunctive procedures.

METHOD

The study included 147 patients with HR (male patients: 102; grade III: 95, grade IV: 52) presenting with bleeding (73%) and prolapse (62%).

RESULTS

More ligations were required for grade IV than grade III HR (10.7 + 2.8 vs 8.6 + 2.2, P < 0.001). SHP (28 patients) and RAR (18 patients) at 1-4 positions were deemed necessary in 46 (31%) patients. Minimal (muco-)cutaneous excision (MMCE) was added in 23 patients. SHP/RAR was applied more frequently in grade IV HR (60%vs 16%, P < 0.001). In patients not having MMCE, SHP/RAR was added in 57% of grade IV cases (P < 0.001). Complications included residual prolapse (10; two second surgery), bleeding (15; two second DGHAL), thrombosis (four), fissure (three) and fistula (one). Analgesia was required not at all, up to 1-3 days, 4-7 days and >7 days by 30%, 31%, 16% and 14% of the patients, respectively. SHP/RAR was associated with greater discomfort (17%vs 6%, P < 0.001). No differences were found between SHP and RAR. At an average follow-up of 15 months, 96% of patients were asymptomatic and 95% were satisfied.

CONCLUSIONS

DGHAL with the selective application of SHP/RAR is a safe and effective technique for advanced grade HR.

Radiowave ablation and mucopexy for prolapsing hemorrhoids--a pilot study

OBJECTIVE

The author proposes a technique of radiowave ablation and mucopexy of hemorrhoids for patients having symptomatic and prolapsing hemorrhoids and enumerates the events in such patients over 10 years.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

From May 1997 through December 2007, 3148 patients were included in the study. The hemorrhoids were ablated using radiowaves through a Ellman radiowave generator and were followed by suture ligation with absorbable suture material under vision. Operating time, postoperative complications, time to return to work, and outcome of the procedure were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean procedure time was 8+/-0 min (range, 5-14 min). The mean total analgesic dose and duration of pain control using analgesics was 17+/-5 tablets, and 10+/-4 days respectively. The mean period of incapacity for work was 6 days [range 4-17 days]. Complications were identified in 4.8% patients. The postoperative follow-up after 4 weeks revealed therapeutic success in 3013 patients (95.7%), who presented with hemorrhoidal bleeding. Prolapse was no longer observed in 3085 (98%) of patients and 3022 (96%) patients experienced no pain after defecation. Up to December 2006, a total of 2897 patients were treated with this method. 2246 patients responded to our inquiry conducted at the beginning of 2008. Ninety-six percent of these patients confirmed that they no longer experienced any bleeding or pain during defecation and ninety-two percent patients did not had any prolapse.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that radiowave ablation followed by suture ligation of hemorrhoids is a simple, cost effective and convenient modality in treating prolapsing hemorrhoids.

Randomized controlled study between suture ligation and radio wave ablation and suture ligation of grade III symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease

PURPOSE

Suture ligation is a simple method to curb the hemorrhoids. The present study was conducted to determine the usefulness of suture ligation in third-degree hemorrhoids and to compare it with author's procedure of suture ligation coupled with hemorrhoidal ablation through radiowave.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and twenty-four consecutive patients with grade III hemorrhoids requiring surgery were randomized into two groups. Half of them were treated by suture ligation, while the remaining patients underwent a radiowave ablation of hemorrhoids using a Ellman radiowave generator followed by suture ligation. A blinded observer evaluated postoperative pain scores, amount of analgesics consumed, and complications encountered. He also assessed recurrence of hemorrhoids after 1 year.

RESULTS

The postoperative pain score was significantly higher in the suture ligation group (3.4+/-0.2 vs. 2.2+/-0.1, p<0.005). The mean total analgesic dose and duration of pain control using analgesics were greater and longer for suture ligation group than radiowave group (29+/-4 vs. 23+/-3 tablets, and 15+/-3 days vs. 12+/-4 days, respectively; p<0.001). Complications were seen more frequently in radiowave group (22% vs.18%). At 1 year follow-up, the recurrence of hemorrhoids was more significant with the suture ligation group (five patients vs. one patient, p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Suture ligation of hemorrhoids is a simple, cost-effective, and a convenient modality in treating third-degree hemorrhoids. The efficacy and postoperative comfort is further enhanced if the hemorrhoids are ablated with radiowave prior to ligating them.

Ligation and mucopexy for prolapsing hemorrhoids--a ten year experience

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to clinically test the efficacy of author's approach of suture ligation and mucopexy for patients having symptomatic and prolapsing hemorrhoids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

616 patients (255 females) complaining of symptoms of hemorrhoids were included in the study. The hemorrhoids were suture ligated with an absorbable suture material under vision. Operating time, postoperative complications, time to return to work, and outcome of the procedure were analyzed. Follow-up was planned following discharge after 1 month, 6 months and after at least 1 year. Patient satisfaction was also assessed.

RESULTS

The mean procedure time was 8 +/- 0 minutes (range, 6-15 minutes), and the total admission period was 12 +/- 4 Hours. Perianal thrombosis and skin tags were the commonest post-operative complications. The mean total analgesic dose and duration of pain control using analgesics was 19 +/- 4 tablets, and 9 +/- 3 days respectively.The postoperative follow up after 4 weeks revealed therapeutic success in 589 patients (95.6%), who presented with hemorrhoidal bleeding. Prolapse was no longer observed in 98% of patients and 96% patients experienced no pain after defecation. 93% patients completed the one-year follow-up and 89 percent of them were asymptomatic. The patient satisfaction scoring was 8.2% on visual analogue scale.

CONCLUSION

Suture ligation and mucopexy of hemorrhoids is an easy-to-perform technique that is well accepted by patients and has good results for prolapsing hemorrhoids.

Ligation under vision of haemorrhoidal cushions for therapy of bleeding haemorrhoids

Ligation under vision (LUV) is a simple method for the surgical treatment of haemorrhoids. In this study, we evaluated the results of our initial experience with the procedure in terms of postoperative pain, patients' final satisfaction and complications. We reviewed a group of patients who had undergone suture ligation of symptomatic haemorrhoids of grade II and III. This was performed with the haemorrhoids under direct vision and without the use of any ancillary instrumentation such as a Doppler sensor. All interventions were performed in the day-care surgical unit using general or regional anaesthesia. Surgical outcome and degree of postoperative pain were determined from outpatient clinic follow-up and individual phone interviews. A total of 32 patients (19 men and 13 women) with a mean age of 59 years had undergone LUV. There were 23 patients (72%) with grade II and 9 patients (28%) with grade III haemorrhoids. The indication for the surgery was bleeding in 19 patients (59%), prolapse in 6 (19%) and both in 7 (22%). A previous rubber band ligation had been carried out in 17 patients (53%). On average, the surgery took 22 min. All patients were discharged on the same day. Four %patients (12%) suffered only mild postoperative pain, 14 (44%) suffered from moderate pain and another 14 (44%) had severe pain. At follow-up (median 21 months, range 9-33 months), 28 %patients (87.5%) were completely asymptomatic at the time of the phone interview. The final result was assessed as excellent by 19 patients (60%), successful by 10 (31%), and unsuccessful by 3 (9%). All patients had complete functional recovery and there were no major surgical complications. Our data show that LUV of symptomatic haemorrhoids is a simple and safe procedure. It can be performed as effective isolated surgery for symptomatic haemorrhoids and as an additional procedure in the treatment of complex perianal pathology.

Analysis of surgical treatments for circumferentially protruding haemorrhoids: complete excision with repair using flaps versus primary excision with secondary suture-ligation

BACKGROUND

Circumferentially protruding haemorrhoids (CPH) are troublesome lesions for both patients and surgeons, and in most cases demand surgical intervention. However, such surgery carries the risks of complications and recurrence. This study compared two surgical procedures in order to identify the optimal approach for CPH.

METHODS

All patients underwent an open haemorrhoidectomy for primary haemorrhoids, after which patients underwent either of the two procedures for secondary haemorrhoids. Group 1 (n = 104) comprised patients who underwent submucosal excision with repair using remnant anodermal flaps; this procedure was performed between 1991 and 1996. Group 2 (n = 113) comprised patients who underwent suture-ligation; this procedure was performed between 1997 and 2002. Surgical outcomes including surgical variables, wound healing, complications and patient satisfaction were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

For group 2, surgical time and duration of analgesic use (mean +/- SEM, 22 +/- 0 minutes and 3 +/- 0 days, respectively) were significantly shorter than for group 1 (28 +/- 1 minutes and 4 +/- 0 days, respectively; p < 0.001 for both comparisons). In terms of complication rates, there was no significant difference between group 2 (15 patients, 14%) and group 1 (25 patients, 22%), and most complications were satisfactorily treated using conservative management. Skin tags and perianal abscesses were more frequent in group 1 than in group 2. The final follow-up was undertaken at 6 months postoperatively, at which time there were no recurrences in patients of either group. For both groups, over 90% of patients reported that they were satisfied with the outcome of surgery.

CONCLUSION

Although both surgical approaches were successful for treating CPH, open haemorrhoidectomy for primary haemorrhoids combined with suture-ligation for secondary haemorrhoids appears to be the optimal approach considering its rapidity, simplicity and lower associated costs.

Treatment of rectal mucosal prolapse with radiofrequency coagulation and plication--a new surgical technique

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to assess the outcome of using a new technique of mucosal ablation using a radiofrequency device followed by its plication for rectal mucosal prolapse and to compare the results with those under the conventional ligature and excision procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The procedure of radiofrequency ablation and mucosal plication (RAMP) is described. A Ellman radiofrequency generator was used for the procedure. Out of the 46 patients with rectal mucosal prolapse, 24 patients were randomized to undergo ligature and excision procedure (LEP) and 22 were operated with RAMP. The operating time, amount of pain (VAS scale)[Primary end points], postoperative analgesic requirement, time to return to work, wound healing period and postoperative complications were documented.

RESULTS

Radiofrequency ablation and mucosal plication procedure on an average resulted in shorter operation time (9 vs. 32 minutes, p < 0.0001), shorter hospitalization (16 vs. 42 hours, p < 0.0001) significantly lesser postoperative pain, fewer cumulative requests for analgesia by the patients (21 vs. 54 tablets, p < 0.0001), earlier return to work (7 vs. 18 days, p < 0.0001) and faster wound healing time (14 vs. 35 days, p < 0.0001). The complication rate was 9 % with RAMP group and 29 % with LEP group.

CONCLUSION

The procedure of radiofrequency ablation and plication of mucosa shows promising results in patients with rectal mucosal prolapse. Being safe, effective, and a swift technique, it can be proposed as an improved alternative to conventional surgical procedure.

Randomized controlled study: radiofrequency coagulation and plication versus ligation and excision technique for rectal mucosal prolapse

BACKGROUND

A novel technique of radiofrequency ablation and plication of the rectal mucosa (RAMP) as a treatment for rectal mucosal prolapse is reported. The results of this technique are compared with the conventional ligature and excision procedure (LEP).

METHODS

Radiofrequency ablation was performed using an Ellman radiofrequency generator. Patients with rectal mucosal prolapse were randomized to undergo either LEP or RAMP. The intra- and postoperative outcomes and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

RAMP on average resulted in reduced operation time, shorter hospitalization, and significantly less postoperative pain. Return to work was earlier and wound healing times were shorter than that of patients in the control group. The complication rates also were significantly shorter (9% in the RAMP group and 29% in the conventional LEP group).

CONCLUSION

The procedure of radiofrequency ablation and plication of rectal mucosa is safe, effective, and swift. It can be proposed as an effective alternative to conventional surgical procedures.

Radiofrequency ablation and plication--a new technique for prolapsing hemorrhoidal disease

BACKGROUND

The author describes a modified procedure of ablation with a radiofrequency device and plication of the hemorrhoidal mass for prolapsing hemorrhoids. The study is aimed at ascertaining if this procedure provides any advantages over the conventional hemorrhoid surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two different studies are included. The first study describes 600 serial patients with prolapsing hemorrhoids treated with this technique over a period of 18 months. An Ellman radiofrequency generator was used for the ablation of the hemorrhoids. The operative technique and postoperative outcome is reported. The second study compares this technique with standard Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy in a randomized trial of 100 patients.

RESULTS

With this new procedure, the post-defecation pain and pain at rest were within tolerable limits (pain scores 1 to 4 on visual analog scale). Post-defecation bleeding was present in 60% of the patients. Pruritus and perianal thrombosis were complained by few others. No patient encountered any incontinence, prolapse, or stenosis. The comparative study showed definite advantages of this modified technique over Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy.

CONCLUSION

The procedure of radiofrequency ablation and plication of hemorrhoids restricts the hospital stay to only a few hours and provides rapid physical recovery. It does seem to be a better alternative to the conventional surgical procedures in terms of postoperative pain, return to work, and complications.

Reinterventions after complicated or failed stapled hemorrhoidopexy

BACKGROUND

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy has become increasingly popular over the past five years, mainly because of the assumption that it is associated with less pain. However, persistent tags and recurrence might represent a problem, because piles are not excised and severe complications requiring surgery have been occasionally reported. The aim of the present study is to analyze the causes for and the outcome of reintervention following either severely complicated or failed stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

METHODS

A total of 232 primary stapled hemorrhoidopexies and 65 reinterventions after stapled hemorrhoidopexy were performed by the authors in five centers devoted to colorectal surgery. Twelve patients of the latter group had the stapled hemorrhoidopexy performed in one of these centers. Thirty-five were males and 30 were females. The mean age was 50 (range, 29-81) years. In all cases the primary indication for stapled hemorrhoidopexy was either third-degree or fourth-degree symptomatic hemorrhoids. In all patients submitted to reoperation the diagnosis of either severely complicated or failed stapled hemorrhoidopexy was made. The clinical history of all of these patients was carefully studied and all underwent inspection, digital exploration, and proctoscopy. After the reintervention, proctoscopy was performed in 61 patients (92 percent) after a median follow-up of 5.5 (range, 1-36) months.

RESULTS

Our reoperation rate after stapled hemorrhoidopexy was 11 percent. The most frequent indications for reintervention were persistent, severe anal pain (visual analog pain score higher than 7) in 29 patients (45 percent), severe postoperative bleeding in 20 (31 percent), anal fissure in 16 (21 percent), prolapsing piles in 12 (18 percent), rectal polyp in 11 (16 percent), anorectal sepsis in 11 (16 percent), and fecal incontinence in 7 (11 percent). Thirteen different types of reintervention were needed. Excisional hemorrhoidectomy, removal of staples, and fissurectomy and/or internal sphincterotomy were the most frequent operation (n = 41). A decrease in anal pain, as measured by visual analog pain score, was observed one month after reintervention, compared with that measured preoperatively (from 5.6 +/- 3.6 to 3.0 +/- 2.9) (P < 0.001). Bleeding requiring treatment occurred in six cases (10 percent), anal stricture requiring dilation occurred in three (5 percent), and fecal incontinence in three (5 percent). Proctoscopy showed no recurrences in 52 cases (80 percent) after the reintervention.

CONCLUSION

Pain and bleeding mostly caused by piles, fissures, and retained staples were the most frequent causes for reoperation after stapled hemorrhoidopexy. Reintervention was associated with a high bleeding and soiling rate, but was effective in treating pain and other symptoms in the majority of patients. Because of the wide spectrum of different interventions required, a failed or complicated stapled hemorrhoidopexy might be better treated by an experienced colorectal surgeon.