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

Haemorrhoid artery ligation - recto anal repair (HAL-RAR) blind versus Doppler: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Haemorrhoids remain a highly prevalent condition in Australia, affecting 39% of the adult Australian population. While haemorrhoidectomy remains the gold standard in the management of haemorrhoids, newer techniques such as haemorrhoid artery ligation-recto anal repair (HAL-RAR) are emerging as promising management modalities. We compare the efficacy of non-Doppler guided (non-DG) HAL-RAR versus Doppler-guided (DG) HAL-RAR in the management of haemorrhoids.

METHODS

This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022353806) and adhered to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. We conducted a systematic review using Medline, Embase and Cochrane database for comparative studies between Doppler-guided HAL-RAR and non-Doppler-guided HAL-RAR in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 statement for reporting systematic reviews.

RESULTS

Five studies were included in our systematic review and meta-analysis. There was no clinically significant difference in operative times (SMD 0.46, 9% CI -3.16 0 4.08, P = 0.804) or post-operative bleeding (P = 0.142) between the two groups. DG HAL-RAR patients were more likely to have post-operative urinary retention (P < 0.001). Non-DG patients were less likely to experience recurrence (OR 5.12, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our review of non-DG HAL-RAR compared to DG HAL-RAR reflects the non-inferiority of the non-DG HALRAR procedure. We hope that these results would provide a guide to clinicians performing HAL-RAR, and would provide some cost savings for institutions who are unable to procure the necessary equipment for DG HAL-RAR.

The Italian Unitary Society of Colon-Proctology (Società Italiana Unitaria di Colonproctologia) guidelines for the management of acute and chronic hemorrhoidal disease

The aim of these evidence-based guidelines is to present a consensus position from members of the Italian Unitary Society of Colon-Proctology (Società Italiana Unitaria di Colon-Proctologia, SIUCP) on the diagnosis and management of hemorrhoidal disease, with the goal of guiding physicians in the choice of the best treatment option. A panel of experts was charged by the Board of the SIUCP to develop key questions on the main topics related to the management of hemorrhoidal disease and to perform an accurate and comprehensive literature search on each topic, in order to provide evidence-based answers to the questions and to summarize them in statements. All the clinical questions were discussed by the expert panel in multiple rounds through the Delphi approach and, for each statement, a consensus among the experts was reached. The questions were created according to PICO (patients, intervention, comparison, and outcomes) criteria, and the statements were developed adopting the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) methodology. In cases of grade 1 hemorrhoidal prolapse, outpatient procedures including hemorrhoidal laser procedure and sclerotherapy may be considered the preferred surgical options. For grade 2 prolapse, nonexcisional procedures including outpatient treatments, hemorrhoidal artery ligation and mucopexy, laser hemorrhoidoplasty, the Rafaelo procedure, and stapled hemorrhoidopexy may represent the first-line treatment options, whereas excisional surgery may be considered in selected cases. In cases of grades 3 and 4, stapled hemorrhoidopexy and hemorrhoidectomy may represent the most effective procedures, even if, in the expert panel opinion, stapled hemorrhoidopexy represents the gold-standard treatment for grade 3 hemorrhoidal prolapse.

Conventional Excisional Haemorrhoidectomy versus Transanal Haemorrhoidal Dearterialization for Haemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Although effective, conventional excisional haemorrhoidectomy (CEH) is associated with significant postoperative pain. Novel techniques such as transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) are suggested to reduce pain but may result in higher recurrence rates. We aimed to compare short- and long-term outcomes of CEH and THD in the present meta-analysis.

METHODS

A PRISMA-compliant meta-analysis was performed, searching PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from 1995 to December 2022. The primary objective was recurrence. Secondary objectives included complication rates, length of stay (LOS), operative time, and time to return to baseline. Random-effects models were used to calculate pooled effect size estimates. Subgroup analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

A total of 6 RCTs encompassing 465 patients were captured. There were 142 (59%) males in the CEH group and 129 (54%) in the THD group. On random-effects analysis, THD had a higher recurrence rate (odds ratio = 2.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03-7.38, p = 0.04) albeit a shorter return to baseline compared to CEH (mean difference = -14.05 days, 95% CI = -20.38 to -7.72, p < 0.0001). There were no differences in bleeding (p = 0.12), urinary retention (p = 0.97), incontinence (p = 0.41), anal stenosis (p = 0.19), thrombosed residual haemorrhoids (p = 0.16), operating time (p = 0.19), or LOS (p = 0.22). Results remained similar on subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

CEH is associated with lower recurrence but similar complication rates to THD, although patients take longer to return to baseline function postoperatively.

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.

Mid-term outcome of a novel nonexcisional technique using aluminum potassium sulfate and tannic acid sclerotherapy with mucopexy on patients with grade III hemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

Aluminum potassium sulfate and tannic acid (ALTA) is an effective sclerosing agent for the treatment of internal hemorrhoids. ALTA therapy with rectal mucopexy (AM) is a new approach for treating hemorrhoidal prolapse. This study investigated the midterm outcomes of AM surgery in patients with hemorrhoids.

METHODS

Patients with grade III hemorrhoids who underwent AM surgery were enrolled in this retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from a single institution. Cumulative success rates, postoperative symptoms, including pain scores, analgesic requirements, and postoperative complications, and patient satisfaction were assessed.

RESULTS

The median number of ALTA injection procedures was 3 (range 1-4), and the median total injection dose was 19 mL (range 7-32 mL). The median number of mucopexy procedures was 2 (range 1-4). The median postoperative pain score (0 = no pain at all, 10 = worst pain imaginable) at rest or during defecation were ≤2. The total dose of analgesics administered during the first two weeks after surgery was 1 (range 0-25). Six patients (5.3%) showed postoperative complications: five showed Clavien-Dindo (C-D) grade I and one showed C-D grade IIIa complications. Cumulative success rates at one, three, and five years were 96.5%, 85.3%, and 85.3%, respectively. Patient satisfaction scores, which were assessed using a 10-point scale, were ≥9 at each postoperative year.

CONCLUSIONS

AM surgery is an effective non-excisional surgery with satisfactory mid-term results for grade III hemorrhoids, and is associated with lower complication rates, postoperative analgesic requirements, and higher patient satisfaction.

Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization With Mucopexy Versus Ferguson Hemorrhoidectomy for Prolapsed Internal Hemorrhoids: A Multicenter Prospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) with mucopexy to Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy in terms of recurrence rates and quality of life.

BACKGROUND

There is uncertainty regarding the durability of the therapeutic effect of THD with mucopexy compared with Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy in terms of recurrence rates.

METHODS

This was a multicenter prospective study. Participating surgeons performed the operation they knew best enrolling 10 patients each. Surgeons' unedited videos were reviewed by an independent expert. Patients with prolapsed internal hemorrhoids in at least 3 columns were eligible. The primary endpoint was recurrence rates defined as prolapsing internal hemorrhoids. Patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction were evaluated with Pain Scale and Brief Pain Inventory, Fecal Incontinence Quality Of Life (FIQOL), Cleveland Clinic Incontinence, Constipation, Short-Form 12 scores, and Patient satisfaction (4-point Likert) scale.

RESULTS

Twenty surgeons enrolled 197 patients. THD patients had lower Visual pain scores at postoperative day (POD) 1 (6.2 vs 8.3, P =0.047), POD7 (4.5 vs 7.7, P =0.021), POD14 (2.8 vs 5.3, P <0.001), and medication use at POD14 (23% vs 58%, P <0.001). Median follow-up was 3.1 (1.0-5.5) years. Recurrence rates did not differ between the study arms (5.9% vs 2.4%, P =0.253). Patient satisfaction rate was higher after THD at POD14 (76.4% vs 52.5%, P =0.031) and 3 months (95.1% vs 63.3%, P =0.029), but did not differ at 6 months (91.7% vs 88%, P =0.228) and 1 year (94.2% vs 88%, P =0.836).

CONCLUSION

THD with mucopexy was associated with improved patient-reported outcomes and quality of life as compared with Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy with nonsignificantly different recurrence rates.

Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation for the Treatment of Grade II-III Hemorrhoids: Is it Worth the Use of Doppler Guide in Long-Term Follow-Up?: A Single-Center Cohort Study

Background

Hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL) may reduce postoperative pain and complications and shorten patients' recovery when compared to standard hemorrhoidectomy. It is unclear if the Doppler guide (DG) is useful in reducing recurrence risk.

Objective

To compare two groups of patients (treated with DG-HAL or HAL) in terms of recurrence risk and patients' satisfaction grade.

Methods

Between January 1, 2014 and January 31, 2021, 122 patients affected by grade II-III hemorrhoidal prolapse underwent DG-HAL or HAL at Chivasso Hospital, Italy. Mucopexy was routinely performed. After discharge, patients were subjected to 1-week, 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month clinical assessment. Thereafter, they were interviewed by telephone annually.

Results

Seventy-six (62.3%) DG-HAL and 46 (37.7%) HAL procedures were performed. Median surgical time was 30 (15-45) minutes for DG-HAL versus 25 (15-40) minutes for HAL (P = 0.005). No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperative bleeding needing surgery occurred in 2 (1.6%) patients in the DG-HAL group. During a median follow-up of 46 months (6-86), we registered 18 (23.7%) recurrences in the DG-HAL group and 13 (28.3%) in the HAL one (P = 0.574). No cases of incontinence or anal stenosis occurred. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of patients' satisfaction. At multivariate analysis, age ≥ 65 years resulted a protective factor for recurrence (odds ratio 0.31; 95% confidence interval 0.09-0.98; P = 0.047).

Conclusions

In our study, the use of DG did not reduce recurrence risk. Operative time was significantly increased in the DG-HAL group.

Trends in Treatment for Hemorrhoids, Fistula, and Anal Fissure: Go Along the Current Trends

Recent trends in benign anal disease treatment are minimizing surgery to preserve normal anorectal anatomical unit and its functions. However, some surgeons still prefer and are confident with the use of conventional solid surgical methods. In this report, we will investigate the recent trends in the treatment for hemorrhoids, fistula, and anal fissure. The practice guidelines of advanced countries, including UK, Italy, France, USA, Japan, and ESCP, are referred to in this review. Opinions suggested in international meetings were also added. In the management of hemorrhoids, surgical treatments and office procedures were recommended according to a patient's status and preference. For the management of complex anal fistula, novel sphincter-preserving surgical techniques are more widely accepted than a sphincter-dividing procedure of immediate repair following fistulectomy. The treatment of anal fissures is well covered in the guidelines of the ASCRS.

Comparison of post-operative bleeding incidence in laser hemorrhoidoplasty with and without hemorrhoidal artery ligation: a double-blinded randomized controlled trial

Introduction

The effectiveness of hemorrhoidal artery ligation supplementation in reducing the incidence of post laser hemorrhoidoplasty bleeding has not been investigated.

Methods

This was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing post-operative bleeding incidence in patients undergoing laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) only versus LHP with hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL). Outcome measures included post-operative bleeding and its severity (i.e. verbal rating scale and Clavien-Dindo classification), presence of perianal swelling and pain score (visual analog score) at 1-day, 1-week and 6-weeks post-operatively. Statistical tests were performed and a value of P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Seventy-six patients were randomized. There was no difference in median operating time. The bleeding incidence was highest at 1-week post-operatively (17.1%), and decreased to 1.3% at 6-weeks. There was no significant difference in bleeding incidence between both groups at any of the measured timepoints (P > 0.05). Severity of bleeding and incidence of post-operative perianal swelling were similar in both groups (P > 0.05). There was no difference in median pain scores.

Conclusion

Supplementation of HAL to LHP does not reduce the post-operative bleeding incidence. LHP is sufficient as a stand-alone procedure for treating haemorrhoids.

Trial registration: National Registration Number is NMRR-15-1112-24065 (IIR). The trial start date was 1st January 2015 with the ClinicalTrials.gov identifier and registration number as NCT04667169.

Selective Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization with High Mucopexy in the Surgical Treatment of Hemorrhoidal Disease

The doppler-guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization technique associated with mucopexy is a noninvasive surgical option used to treat hemorrhoidal disease (HD).

Objective To compare and analyze the results using a variation of the doppler-guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization technique with the technique of selective hemorrhoidal dearterialization with high mucopexy in the treatment of HD.

Method A total of 292 patients who underwent surgical treatment for grade II, III and IV HD from March 2012 to December 2017 were studied. From this total, 110 (37.6%) patients underwent a conventional doppler-guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy (CD), and 182 (62.3%) underwent selective hemorrhoidal dearterialization with high mucopexy (SHeLF). In the group of patients undergoing CD, 4 patients (3.64%) had grade II HD, 82 (74.55%) grade III, and 24 (21.82%) grade IV. In the group submitted to SHeLF, 18 (9.89%) patients had grade II HD, 86 (47.25%) had grade III, and 65 (35.71%) had grade IV. The same surgeon operated all patients under spinal anesthesia. In patients undergoing CD, six arterial branches have been dearterialized, while in patients undergoing SHeLF, the hemorrhoidary nipples submitted to a dearterialization were selected (from 1 to 5) by intraoperative evaluation followed by high rectal mucopexy. In the postoperative period, the following parameters were evaluated: pain, tenesmus, bleeding, and recurrence.

Moderate results to severe pain was a postoperative complaint reported by 13 (11.82%) patients undergoing CD, and by 19 (10.44%) undergoing SHeLF. Intense tenesmus was reported by 26 (23.64%) patients undergoing CD and by 7 (3.85%) undergoing SHeLF. Three patients (2.73%) undergoing CD and 1 (0.55%) undergoing SHeLF evolved with postoperative bleeding. One patient (0.55%) in the group undergoing CD required surgical review of hemostasis. Six patients (5.45%) who underwent CD and 8 (4.39%) who underwent SHeLF were reoperated due to disease recurrence.

Conclusion Comparing statistics, patients undergoing the SHeLF technique have less postoperative pain, tenesmus and postoperative bleeding when compared with CD.

Interventional treatments for prolapsing haemorrhoids: network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Multiple treatments for early-moderate grade symptomatic haemorrhoids currently exist, each associated with their respective efficacy, complications, and risks. The aim of this study was to compare the relative clinical outcomes and effectiveness of interventional treatments for grade II-III haemorrhoids.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA criteria for all the RCTs published between 1980 and 2020; manuscripts were identified using the MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases. Inclusion criteria were RCTs comparing procedural interventions for grade II-III haemorrhoids. Primary outcomes of interest were: symptom recurrence at a minimum follow-up of 6 weeks, postprocedural pain measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS) on day 1, and postprocedural complications (bleeding, urinary retention, and bowel incontinence). After bias assessment and heterogeneity analysis, a Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine RCTs were identified, including 9232 patients. Fourteen different treatments were analysed in the network meta-analysis. Overall, there were 59 RCTs (73 per cent) judged as being at high risk of bias, and the greatest risk was in the domain measurement of outcome. Variable amounts of heterogeneity were detected in direct treatment comparisons, in particular for symptom recurrence and postprocedural pain. Recurrence of haemorrhoidal symptoms was reported by 54 studies, involving 7026 patients and 14 treatments. Closed haemorrhoidectomy had the lowest recurrence risk, followed by open haemorrhoidectomy, suture ligation with mucopexy, stapled haemorrhoidopexy, and Doppler-guided haemorrhoid artery ligation (DG-HAL) with mucopexy. Pain was reported in 34 studies involving 3812 patients and 11 treatments. Direct current electrotherapy, DG-HAL with mucopexy, and infrared coagulation yielded the lowest pain scores. Postprocedural bleeding was recorded in 46 studies involving 5696 patients and 14 treatments. Open haemorrhoidectomy had the greatest risk of postprocedural bleeding, followed by stapled haemorrhoidopexy and closed haemorrhoidectomy. Urinary retention was reported in 30 studies comparing 10 treatments involving 3116 participants. Open haemorrhoidectomy and stapled haemorrhoidopexy had significantly higher odds of urinary retention than rubber band ligation and DG-HAL with mucopexy. Nine studies reported bowel incontinence comparing five treatments involving 1269 participants. Open haemorrhoidectomy and stapled haemorrhoidopexy had the highest probability of bowel incontinence.

CONCLUSION

Open and closed haemorrhoidectomy, and stapled haemorrhoidopexy were associated with worse pain, and more postprocedural bleeding, urinary retention, and bowel incontinence, but had the lowest rates of symptom recurrence. The risks and benefits of each treatment should be discussed with patients before a decision is made.

Non-excisional laser therapies for hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review of the literature

Non-excisional laser therapies are emerging treatment for grades II and III hemorrhoidal disease (HD). However, so far, their efficiency is based on low-level evidence. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review the efficiency of non-excisional laser therapies for HD. MEDLINE/Pubmed, Web of science, Embase, and Cochrane were searched from database implementation until the April 17th, 2020. We included studies reporting at least one of surgical indicators of postoperative outcomes of laser therapies, encompassing laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LH) and hemorrhoidal laser procedure (HeLP). Fourteen studies describing LH and HeLP were included, representing 1570 patients. The main intraoperative complication was bleeding (0-1.9% of pooled patients for LH, 5.5-16.7% of pooled patients for HeLP). Postoperative complications occurred in up to 64% of patients after LH and 23.3% after HeLP. Resolution of symptoms ranged between 70 and 100% after LH and between 83.6 and 90% after HeLP. Moreover, four randomized controlled trials included in our review reported similar resolution after LH compared with hemorrhoidectomy or mucopexy and after HeLP compared with rubber band ligation. Recurrence rate was reported to range between 0 and 11.3% after LH and between 5 and 9.4% after HeLP. When compared with hemorrhoidectomy, LH showed conflicting results with one randomized controlled trial reporting similar recurrence rate, but another reporting decreased recurrences associated with hemorrhoidectomy. Laser therapies showed lower postoperative pain than hemorrhoidectomy or rubber band ligation. LH and HeLP are safe and effective techniques for the treatment of grades II and III HD.

Non-Doppler hemorrhoidal artery ligation and hemorrhoidopexy combined with pudendal nerve block for the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In this study, we proposed a combined outpatient treatment modality for hemorrhoidal disease.

METHODS

This study was a prospective non-inferiority randomized controlled trial (RCT). The experimental group included the dearterialization and hemorrhoidopexy under pudendal nerve block, whereas the comparator consisted of the standard Doppler guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation and hemorrhoidopexy, under spinal anesthesia. As primary hypothesis, we considered the non-inferiority of the proposed modality in terms of the presenting symptom remission rate (non-inferiority margin: 10%). Randomization was based on a 1:1 ratio. Blinding was confined to the patient and the investigator.

RESULTS

Overall, 60 patients were enrolled. The primary hypothesis of this RCT (96.7% vs 73.3%) was validated. The experimental group was associated with a lower operation duration and an expedited onset of mobilization and feeding. Moreover, a favorable profile regarding short-term morbidity and analgesia was identified. The control group displayed a higher pile recurrence rate and a suboptimal patient satisfaction. A significant effect of the treatment modality in most of the SF-36 components was confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed treatment modality was associated with favorable short and long-term outcomes. Due to specific limitations, further RCTs, with a larger sample size, are required. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT03298997.

Evaluation of the efficacy and morbidity of radiofrequency thermocoagulation in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease

INTRODUCTION

Grade III hemorrhoidal disease may require surgical treatment. Several minimally invasive techniques can be offered to the patient, particularly ligation of the hemorrhoidal arteries/mucopexy or even stapled hemorrhoidopexy. A technique of radiofrequency thermocoagulation of hemorrhoids has recently been introduced. The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy and early morbidity of this procedure.

METHODS

Data from successive patients undergoing radiofrequency thermocoagulation for grade II to IV hemorrhoidal disease between December 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively collated.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients, with a mean age of 53 years, underwent operation during the study period. The major indication was grade III hemorrhoidal disease in 95% of patients. More than 80% of patients underwent operation as an outpatient. Eighteen (24.3%) patients developed a postoperative complication within 30 days, of whom two (2.7%) required revisional surgery for rectal bleeding and severe anal pain, respectively. Seven (9.5%) patients were re-admitted to hospital and 18 (24.3%) had an unscheduled early return visit within 30 postoperative days. At three months following surgery, the anatomical and functional result was satisfactory in more than 93% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency hemorrhoidal thermocoagulation is an effective technique in the treatment of grade III hemorrhoidal disease. Despite a non-negligible rate of minor postoperative complications requiring an early consultation or re-hospitalisation, severe complications occurred in less than 3% of operated patients.

European Society of ColoProctology: guideline for haemorrhoidal disease

AIM

The goal of this European Society of ColoProctology project was to establish a multidisciplinary, international guideline for haemorrhoidal disease (HD) and to provide guidance on the most effective (surgical) treatment for patients with HD.

METHODS

The development process consisted of six phases. In phase one we defined the scope of the guideline. The patient population included patients with all stages of haemorrhoids. The target group for the guideline was all practitioners treating patients with haemorrhoids and, in addition, healthcare workers and patients who desired information regarding the treatment management of HD. The guideline needed to address both the diagnosis of and the therapeutic modalities for HD. Phase two consisted of the compilation of the guideline development group (GDG). All clinical members needed to have affinity with the diagnosis and treatment of haemorrhoids. Further, attention was paid to the geographical distribution of the clinicians. Each GDG member identified at least one patient in their country who could read English to comment on the draft guideline. In phase three review questions were formulated, using a reversed process, starting with possible recommendations based on the GDG's knowledge. In phase four a literature search was performed in MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, Embase (Ovid) and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. The search was focused on existing systematic reviews addressing each review question, supplemented by other studies published after the time frame covered by the systematic reviews. In phase five data of the included papers were extracted by the surgical resident (RT) and checked by the methodologist (JK) and the GDG. If needed, meta-analysis of the systematic reviews was updated by the surgical resident and the methodologist using Review Manager. During phase six the GDG members decided what recommendations could be made based on the evidence found in the literature using GRADE.

RESULTS

There were six sections: (i) symptoms, diagnosis and classification; (ii) basic treatment; (iii) outpatient procedures; (iv) surgical interventions; (v) special situations; (vi) other surgical techniques. Thirty-four recommendations were formulated.

CONCLUSION

This international, multidisciplinary guideline provides an up to date and evidence based summary of the current knowledge of the management of HD and may serve as a useful guide for patients and clinicians.

Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization: Lessons learned from a personal series of 200 consecutive cases and a proposal for a tailor-made procedure

Background

Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) is an effective treatment for hemorrhoidal disease (HD). However, the surgical technique is not standardized and the results for advanced HD are controversial. The aim of this study was to assess surgical outcomes after a long follow-up and compare total and partial mucopexy.

Materials and methods

Between March 2011 and July 2014, THD was offered to patients with symptomatic prolapsed hemorrhoids (Grades II, III and IV). Dearterialization was performed with the guidance of Ultrasound Doppler and mucopexy for prolapsed piles, and regarded as total or partial (if less than 6 mucopexies). Post-operative complications, long-term results and patients’ satisfaction rates were analyzed.

Results

200 consecutive patients were recruited with a mean follow-up of 43 months (range 29 - 57 months). HD distribution was GII (N = 35, 17.5%), GIII (N = 124, 62%), and GIV (N = 41, 20.5%). Postoperative complications included transient tenesmus (26,5%), pain (14%) and fecal impaction (2,5%). Recurrence rates were 0, 2,4% and 17,1% for prolapse (p < 0,01) and 2,9%, 4% and 9,8% for bleeding (p = 0,33) in grades II, III and IV, respectively. Total mucopexy resulted in more tenesmus (31,2%) than partial mucopexy (14,5%), (p < 0,01). After 12 weeks of follow-up, 85% of patients were either very satisfied or satisfied; 8,5% were dissatisfied.

Conclusion

THD-mucopexy is safe with low overall recurrence. Grade IV HD is associated with more recurrence and postoperative complications. Total mucopexy is associated with more tenesmus, pain and fecal impaction. A tailor-made procedure with selective dearterialization and mucopexy may be the next step in this evolving technique.

•

.THD is safe procedure for hemorrhoids with low overall recurrence of prolapse and bleeding.

•

.THD for grade IV hemorrhoidal disease is associated with more recurrence.

•

.THD with partial mucopexy achieves similar good results compared to total mucopexy.

•

.THD with total mucopexy is associated with more postoperative tenesmus, pain and fecal impaction.

•

.The number of dearterializations and mucopexies should be tailor-made.

Results of the double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing laser hemorrhoidoplasty with sutured mucopexy and excisional hemorrhoidectomy

PURPOSE

To compare the results of laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP), excisional hemorrhoidectomy (EH), and sutured mucopexy (MP).

METHODS

A randomized, parallel-group, double-blinded, single-center prospective study.

PATIENTS

Symptomatic 2nd- or 3rd-degree hemorrhoids patients.

INTERVENTIONS

Computer randomization sequence, patient blinding, operating surgeon blinding, and surgeon-evaluator blinding. LHP was performed using a 1470 nm diode laser. Up to 250 J of energy delivered per 1 hemorrhoid. The procedure was performed circumferentially. MP ligations were placed in the area of visible hemorrhoidal tissue. Standard EH was performed up to the level of the hemorrhoidal pedicle. Follow-up at 1 and 6 weeks and 1 year.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Recurrence of symptoms requiring treatment, intensity, and duration of pain after the operation, patients' quality of life, fecal incontinence, and patients' evaluation of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 121 patients. Groups were even preoperatively. LHP took 15 min (SD 5.6), MP took 16 min (SD 5.58), and EH took 29 min (SD 10.3). Recurrence requiring treatment rate was 0% after EH, 10% after LHP, and 22% after MP, p = 0.004. LHP and MP were less painful than EH, p < 0.001. Patients after LHP returned to regular activity after 15 days, after MP after 22 days, and after EH after 30 days, p < 0.001. SF-36 scores were better after EH. Symptoms of fecal incontinence improved in all the groups. Patients evaluate LHP better than EH and MP.

LIMITATIONS

Single-center study.

CONCLUSIONS

Laser hemorrhoidoplasty is a safe, minimally invasive option for hemorrhoids, more effective than MP and less effective than EH. Patients evaluate this technique better than the other two.

Consensus statement of the Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR): management and treatment of hemorrhoidal disease

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is the most common proctological disease in the Western countries. However, its real prevalence is underestimated due to the frequent self-medication.The aim of this consensus statement is to provide evidence-based data to allow an individualized and appropriate management and treatment of HD. The strategy used to search for evidence was based on application of electronic sources such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Review Library, CINAHL, and EMBASE.These guidelines are inclusive and not prescriptive.The recommendations were defined and graded based on the current levels of evidence and in accordance with the criteria adopted by American College of Chest Physicians. The recommendations were graded A, B, and C.

Hemorrhoid laser procedure with suture-pexy (HeLPexx): a novel effective procedure to treat hemorrhoidal disease

BACKGROUND

The hemorrhoid laser procedure with suture-pexy (HeLPexx), consisting of Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal dearterialization with laser and the addition of anal mucopexy, is a novel non-excisional procedure to treat hemorrhoids. The aim of the present study was to describe the technique and report the clinical and long-term results.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted on patients with grade III hemorrhoids who had HeLPexx from January 2012 to February 2018. Pre- and postoperative assessment included a thorough clinical examination, constipation and incontinence scoring systems and a symptom questionnaire which was administered at all patients before surgery and at each follow-up visit to evaluate bleeding, prolapse, manual reduction, discomfort or pain, and impact on quality of life. Each symptom had a score between 0 and 4, (0 indicates no symptoms and 4 indicates daily symptoms). The sum of the score for each symptom constituted the Hemorrhoid Symptom Score. Resolution of symptoms, pain, morbidity, need for further medical and/or surgical therapy were also recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy consecutive patients with grade III hemorrhoids [74 females; mean age 49.5 years (range 22-79) years] were included. Median length of follow-up was 36 (range 12-72) months. Postoperative morbidity included urinary retention (7 patients, 4.1%), bleeding not requiring transfusion (1 patient, 0.6%) and thrombosis of hemorrhoidal piles (2 patients, 1.2%). The mean postoperative pain VAS score at 1 week postoperatively was 1.8 ± 1.1 (range 0-5) and 12 (7%) patients used pain medications for more than 1 week postoperatively while none of the patients reported any pain by the end of the third week postoperatively. The Hemorrhoid Symptom Score significantly improved from 15.83 ± 3.04 to 1.3 ± 2.4 (p ≤ 0.001) and showed a statistically significant improvement in all items. Recurrent symptoms were reported in 12 patients (7%) who required further treatment. Severe chronic constipation prior to surgery was found to be a predictive factor of failure (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

HeLPexx appears to be safe and effective for treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids. Further studies are needed to confirm our results.

Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal dearterialization with laser (HeLP): a prospective analysis of data from a multicenter trial

BACKGROUND

Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal laser procedure (HeLP) is a new minimally invasive technique to treat symptomatic hemorrhoids. The aim of this multicenter study was to prospectively assess clinical results and patients' satisfaction in patients treated with HeLP.

METHODS

Indications for HeLP included patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids resistant to medical therapy, with low-grade prolapse. Clinical efficacy was evaluated assessing resolution of symptoms and patient satisfaction. Frequency of bleeding and frequency of acute hemorrhoid-related symptoms were given a score of 0 to 4 (where 4 = more than 3 episodes/week) and 0 to 3 (where 3 = more than 5 episodes/year), respectively. Quality of life, pain at rest, and pain with evacuation were scored using a visual analogue scale (VAS) of 0 to 10. Intra- and postoperative complications were recorded. Potential predictive factors for failure were assessed.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty-four patients (183 males, 101 females) with a mean age of 47.5 years were included in the study. At 6-month follow-up, symptoms had completely resolved in 257/284 (90.5%) and 275/284 (96.8%) patients were satisfied with the results. An analysis of a subgroup of 144 patients followed up for a minimum of 12 months revealed a resolution of symptoms in 130/144 (90.3%) and satisfaction in 139/144 (96.5%). There was a statistically significant improvement of the bleeding score (from 2.4 ± 1.07 to 0.36 ± 0.49; p < 0.0001), acute symptoms score (from 2.03 ± 0.16 to 0.61 ± 0.59; p < 0.0001), quality of life (from 4.63 ± 1.32 to 8.96 ± 1.35; p < 0.0001), pain at rest (from 3.0 ± 2.05 to 1.1 ± 0.99; p < 0.0006), and pain with evacuation (from 4.8 ± 1.22 to 1.7 ± 1.15; p < 0.0001). No significant changes in continence and constipation were observed. Univariate analysis failed to show factors significantly associated with failure.

CONCLUSIONS

The HeLP procedure seems to be safe and effective in patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids. It is simple, minimally invasive, and relatively pain free. It can be performed in an ambulatory setting without anesthesia, and it achieves high patient satisfaction. It may, therefore, be considered a "first-line treatment" in all patients without significant hemorrhoidal prolapse in whom medical therapy has failed.

Mucopexy-recto anal lifting: a standardized minimally invasive method of managing symptomatic hemorrhoids, with an innovative suturing technique and the HemorPex System®

BACKGROUND

Conservative surgery of hemorrhoidal disease is less painful than traditional hemorrhoidectomy, and mucopexy has less risk of serious postoperative complications than stapled hemorrhoidopexy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a standardized, modified hemorrhoidopexy, named Mucopexy-Recto Anal Lifting (MuRAL) with the HemorPex System (HPS) in patients with symptomatic III and IV degree hemorrhoids.

METHODS

Patients were enrolled from May 2013 to Dec 2015 and operated on with the MuRAL technique, based on arterial ligation and mucopexy at 6 locations, using a standardized clockwise/anti-clockwise rotation sequence of the HPS anoscope. Follow-up controls were carried out by independent observers, as follows: a digital exploration 3 weeks after the intervention, digital exploration plus proctoscopy at 3 and 12 months and repeated at a 12 months interval. Patients who did not strictly follow the postoperative controls were excluded from the study. Primary outcome measurement was the recurrence rate. Secondary measurements were: operative time, hospital stay, postoperative pain, postoperative symptoms and satisfaction score.

RESULTS

We operated on 126 patients (72 males, mean age 53.9, range 29-83): 87 (69.6%) with III degree and 39 with IV degree hemorrhoids; 13 patients had a MuRAL as a revisional procedure of a previous operation for hemorrhoids. Mean duration of follow-up was 554 days (range 281-1219). Four patients were excluded from the study. One-year recurrence rate was 4.1%. The mean duration of the intervention was 29.5 minutes (range 23-60) and 92 patients (73%) were discharged during the same day of the operation. Pain VAS Score in the first, second and third postoperative day was 3.9, 2.5, and 1.9, respectively. Twenty-two patients (18%), all submitted to spinal anesthesia, had postoperative acute urinary retention. Fecal urgency, observed in 18.8% of patients at the first control, disappeared within one year after the operation. Mean time to return to normal activity was 8 days (range 5 -10). The patient satisfaction scores at one-year follow up were 31.1% excellent, 57.4% good, 7.4% fairly good and 4.1% poor. In patients with III degree hemorrhoids operative time was significantly shorter, postoperative pain better and transient fecal urgency lower than in IV degree patients. In our experience the standardization of MuRAL operation with HPS, turned out to be a safe and effective minimally invasive approach in managing symptomatic III and IV degree hemorrhoids, avoiding the risk of severe complications, with the possibility to perform a redo-MuRAL in the event of recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

In our series up to 88% of the patients reported a good, or excellent one-year satisfaction score. Further comparative randomized studies with longer follow-up period are needed.

The HubBLe Trial: haemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL) versus rubber band ligation (RBL) for symptomatic second- and third-degree haemorrhoids: a multicentre randomised controlled trial and health-economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

Optimal surgical intervention for low-grade haemorrhoids is unknown. Rubber band ligation (RBL) is probably the most common intervention. Haemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL) is a novel alternative that may be more efficacious.

OBJECTIVE

The comparison of HAL with RBL for the treatment of grade II/III haemorrhoids.

DESIGN

A multicentre, parallel-group randomised controlled trial.

PERSPECTIVE

UK NHS and Personal Social Services.

SETTING

17 NHS Trusts.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged ≥ 18 years presenting with grade II/III (second- and third-degree) haemorrhoids, including those who have undergone previous RBL.

INTERVENTIONS

HAL with Doppler probe compared with RBL.

OUTCOMES

Primary outcome - recurrence at 1 year post procedure; secondary outcomes - recurrence at 6 weeks; haemorrhoid severity score; European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions, 5-level version (EQ-5D-5L); Vaizey incontinence score; pain assessment; complications; and cost-effectiveness.

RESULTS

A total of 370 participants entered the trial. At 1 year post procedure, 30% of the HAL group had evidence of recurrence compared with 49% after RBL [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 2.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.42 to 3.51; p = 0.0005]. The main reason for the difference was the number of extra procedures required to achieve improvement/cure. If a single HAL is compared with multiple RBLs then only 37.5% recurred in the RBL arm (adjusted OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.85 to 2.15; p = 0.20). Persistence of significant symptoms at 6 weeks was lower in both arms than at 1 year (9% HAL and 29% RBL), suggesting significant deterioration in both groups over the year. Symptom score, EQ-5D-5L and Vaizey score improved in both groups compared with baseline, but there was no difference between interventions. Pain was less severe and of shorter duration in the RBL group; most of the HAL group who had pain had mild to moderate pain, resolving by 3 weeks. Complications were low frequency and not significantly different between groups. It appeared that HAL was not cost-effective compared with RBL. In the base-case analysis, the difference in mean total costs was £1027 higher for HAL. Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were higher for HAL; however, the difference was very small (0.01) resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of £104,427 per additional QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

At 1 year, although HAL resulted in fewer recurrences, recurrence was similar to repeat RBL. Symptom scores, complications, EQ-5D-5L and continence score were no different, and patients had more pain in the early postoperative period after HAL. HAL is more expensive and unlikely to be cost-effective in terms of incremental cost per QALY.

LIMITATIONS

Blinding of participants and site staff was not possible.

FUTURE WORK

The incidence of recurrence may continue to increase with time. Further follow-up would add to the evidence regarding long-term clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. The polysymptomatic nature of haemorrhoidal disease requires a validated scoring system, and the data from this trial will allow further assessment of validity of such a system. These data add to the literature regarding treatment of grade II/III haemorrhoids. The results dovetail with results from the eTHoS study [Watson AJM, Hudson J, Wood J, Kilonzo M, Brown SR, McDonald A, et al. Comparison of stapled haemorrhoidopexy with traditional excisional surgery for haemorrhoidal disease (eTHoS): a pragmatic, multicentre, randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2016, in press.] comparing stapled haemorrhoidectomy with excisional haemorrhoidectomy. Combined results will allow expansion of analysis, allowing surgeons to tailor their treatment options to individual patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN41394716.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 20, No. 88. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

A Case Report of Acute Diverticulitis in "Pseudodiverticulosis" after Hemorpex System® Procedure

Introduction. In the last years many mini-invasive approaches were developed in order to reduce postoperative pain and complication after haemorrhoid surgery: one of these alternatives is represented by Hemorpex System, a relatively young technique that combines transanal dearterialization with mucopexy through a dedicated proctoscope. Case Presentation. A 78-year-old male patient was admitted to the Emergency Department for acute urinary retention and elevated temperature. Hemorpex procedure was performed 4 years before. Clinical, endoscopic, and radiological findings demonstrated the presence of multiple diverticula-like structures fulfilled by purulent fluid and a deep alteration of the normal anatomy of the rectum. He was treated following the standard protocol of acute diverticulitis and full recovery from symptoms was achieved. Discussion. Hemorpex System is a young technique, and nowadays-available studies lack long-term follow-up data. Anatomical changes induced by the procedure are consistent and definitive. Our patient luckily demonstrated a prompt response to conservative treatment, but it must be taken into account that, in case of medical treatment failure, surgical approach would be necessary and the actual patient anatomical changes could lead the surgeon to unavoidable threatening maneuvers.

Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation with suture mucopexy compared with suture mucopexy alone for the treatment of Grade III haemorrhoids: a prospective randomized controlled trial

AIM

Novel minimally invasive techniques aimed to reposition the haemorrhoidal zone have been established for prolapsing haemorrhoids. We present a prospective randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of additional Doppler-guided ligation of submucosal haemorrhoidal arteries (DG-HAL) in patients with symptomatic Grade III haemorrhoids. The trial was registered as ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02372981.

METHOD

All consecutive patients with symptomatic Grade III haemorrhoids were randomly allocated to one of the two study arms: (i) Group A, DG-HAL with mucopexy or (ii) Group B, mucopexy alone. End-points were postoperative pain, faecal incontinence, bleeding, residual prolapse and alterations of the vascularization of the anorectal vascular plexus. Vascularization of the anorectal vascular plexus was assessed by transperineal contrast enhanced ultrasound. Patients recorded their symptoms in a diary maintained for a month.

RESULTS

Forty patients were recruited and randomized to the two study groups. Patients in Group A had less pain in the first two postoperative weeks. At the 12-month follow-up, two patients in Group A (10%) and one in Group B (5%) showed recurrent Grade III haemorrhoids (P = 0.274). No significant morphological changes were observed in the transperineal ultrasound findings between the preoperative assessment and the assessment at 1 and 6 months in either group (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Mucopexy techniques for treating prolapsing haemorrhoids are effective, but DG-HAL does not add significantly to the results achieved by mucopexy. Repositioning the haemorrhoidal zone is the key to success, and mucopexy should be placed at the sites of the largest visible prolapse.

Transanal anopexy with HemorPex System (HPS) is effective in treating grade II and III hemorrhoids: medium-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhoidal disease is a common proctologic disorder. The HemorPex System(®) (HPS) (Angiologica, S. Martino Siccomario PV, Italy) is an innovative surgical technique based on muco-hemorrhoidopexy without Doppler guidance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of HPS in on the treatment of grade II and III hemorrhoids.

METHODS

One hundred patients with grade II and III hemorrhoidal disease were included in the study and operated on using HPS without Doppler guidance. The procedure consists of a mucopexy carried out by means of a dedicated rotating anoscope in the 6 relatively constant positions of the terminal branches of the superior hemorrhoidal artery. A direct follow-up was carried out on 100 patients for up to 3 months. A late analysis (>12 months postoperatively) was conducted by telephone interview. At follow-up the following parameters were considered: pain, bleeding, prolapse, difficulties with hygiene and patient satisfaction with treatment.

RESULTS

Operative time was 16 ± 5 min. Three-month follow-up showed significant improvement of symptoms: pain was present in 10 (10 %) patients versus 45 (45 %) preoperatively; bleeding in 13 (13 %) of patients versus 57 (57 %) preoperatively; prolapse in 13 (13 %) of patients versus 45 (45 %) preoperatively and difficulties with hygiene in 1 (1 %) versus 24 (24 %) preoperatively (all p < 0.05). At longer follow-up which was available in 67 patients, 5 patients (7.5 %) had recurrence and were reoperated on at 8, 10, 24, 26 and 36 months, respectively after the first procedure. As regards patient satisfaction, complete satisfaction was reported by 95/100 patients (95 %) at 3 months, 62/67 (92.5 %) at 12 months and 8/56 (85.7 %) at 24 months; partial satisfaction was reported by 3/100 patients (3 %) with intermittent bleeding at 3 months, 3/67 (4.4 %) patients at 12 months and 6/56 (10.7 %) patients at 24 months, all with either intermittent bleeding or prolapse. Dissatisfaction with the procedure was reported by in 1/100 (1 %) patient at 3 months, 2/67 (2.9 %) at 12 months and 2/56 (3.6 %) at 24 months including patients who underwent reintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

HPS can be used in the treatment of grade II and III hemorrhoidal disease. Our results show that this simple technique may be an effective but due to the important limitations of this study (loss to follow-up, non-comparative study) further studies are required.

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.

Long-term Results of Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation

Aim of this study is to assess the efficacy, safety, and long-term results of doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation procedure with a 7-year follow-up period for treatment of grade II and III degree hemorrhoidal diseases. The procedure was performed by a specially designed proctoscope to locate and ligate all terminal branches of superior rectal artery. Patients were followed up at postoperative 1st week and 3rd, 12th, and 24th months by physical examination and 7th year by phone questionnaire using Short Form-36. Between November 2006 and May 2007, 50 patients (29 females, mean age = 38.2) underwent this procedure. All patients discharged at operation day and mean return to work was 2.5 days. There were no major complications and mean postoperative Visual Analogous Scale at first week was 1.72. At 24th month, 44 (88%) and 38 (76%) patients at 7th year were symptom free. Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation is a safe, effective, and outpatient procedure, which can be the treatment of choice for second- and third-degree hemorrhoidal diseases with satisfactory long-term results.

Advantages and limits of hemorrhoidal dearterialization in the treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids

In the last two decades, hemorrhoidal dearterialization has become universally accepted as a treatment option for symptomatic hemorrhoids. The rationale for this procedure is based on the assumption that arterial blood overflow is mainly responsible for dilatation of the hemorrhoidal plexus due to the absence of capillary interposition between the arterial and venous systems within the anal canal. Dearterialization, with either suture ligation (Doppler-guided hemorrhoid artery ligation/transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization) or laser (hemorrhoidal laser procedure), may be successfully performed alone or with mucopexy. Although the added value of Doppler-guidance in association with dearterialization has recently been challenged, this imaging method still plays an important role in localizing hemorrhoidal arteries and, therefore, minimizing the effect of anatomic variation among patients. However, it is important to employ the correct Doppler transducer. Some Doppler transducers may not easily detect superficial arteries due to inadequate frequency settings. All techniques of dearterialization have the advantage of preserving the anatomy and physiology of the anal canal, when compared to other surgical treatments for hemorrhoids. This advantage cannot be underestimated as impaired anal function, including fecal incontinence and other defecation disorders, may occur following surgical treatment for hemorrhoids. Furthermore, this potentially devastating problem can occur in patients of all ages, including younger patients.

Evaluation and management of hemorrhoids: Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR) consensus statement

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common medical and surgical diseases and the main reason for a visit to a coloproctologist. This consensus statement was drawn up by the Italian society of colorectal surgery in order to provide practice parameters for an accurate assessment of the disease and consequent appropriate treatment. The authors made a careful search in the main databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase and Cochrane), and all results were classified on the basis of the grade of recommendation (A-C) of the American College of Chest Physicians.

Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation with hemorrhoidopexy: source and prevention of postoperative pain

BACKGROUND

Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization, although it showed reliability, has not completely removed the issue of postoperative pain.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the causes of postoperative pain and proposed some changes of the technique in order to eliminate it.

PATIENTS

One hundred six out of 188 operated patients were considered. Postoperative pain was investigated using a Visual Analogue Score dividing patients into three groups: 0 to 3, 4 to 6, and 7 to 10. On the basis of these results, we proposed some variations of the technique. A second group of 25 patients was therefore treated with the modified technique. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Fisher's exact test, two-tailed.

MAIN OUTCOME

Pain intensity, surgical approach, and changes in the technique were analyzed, and a new proposal for a modified technique has been developed.

RESULTS

The group of 106 patients, 64 males and 42 females, were divided: 71 III grade and 35 IV grade. Pain was detected in 37 cases (35%).Fifteen males (23.50%) were divided as follows: 8 mild and 7 medium or intense. Twenty-two females (52.38%) were divided as follows: 11 mild and 11 with medium or intense. For what concerns the variable grade, the pain was present in 15 III G and 22 IV G with statistic significant difference (p value 0.00333). Among the 18 patients (7 males and 11 females) who had severe pain, they all had a number of mucopexies >4, while among 19 patients (8 males and 11 females) with mild pain, only 5 had a number of mucopexies >4, resulting in a statistic significant difference (p value 0.031). In the second group, pain was drastically reduced.

LIMITATIONS

We believe it is necessary to extend the sample in order to definitively adopt the proposed amendments.

CONCLUSIONS

The review of the causes of postoperative pain and the changes adopted compared with those proposed in literature have allowed us to greatly reduce postoperative pain.

Hemorrhoidectomy - making sense of the surgical options

While debate continues as to which is the best surgical method for the treatment of hemorrhoids, none of the currently available surgical methods approach the ideal surgical option, which is one that is effective while being safe and painless. In reality, the less painful the procedure, the more likely it is to be associated with recurrence post-op. Where hemorrhoids surgery is concerned, there isn't a "one size fits all" option. Most of the randomized controlled trials performed to date include hemorrhoids of various grades and with a focus on only comparing surgical methods while failing to stratify the outcomes according to the grade of hemorrhoid. We believe that surgery needs to be tailored not only to the grade of the hemorrhoids, but also to the size, circumferential nature of the disease, and prevailing symptomatology.

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.

Conservative and surgical treatment of haemorrhoids

The management of haemorrhoids has evolved rapidly during the past few decades. Several new treatments have been proposed with the aim of reducing patients' postoperative pain, time to return to normal life, risk of early and late complications, and recurrence rate. Although conservative treatment based on dietary and lifestyle changes can help the majority of patients, and rubber band ligation and phlebotonic drugs can effectively treat grade I and II haemorrhoids, surgery is required for the most advanced stages. Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy is considered to be the gold-standard approach for grade IV haemorrhoids. An increasing number of minimally invasive treatment options, including mucopexy with or without mucosal resection and haemorrhoid artery ligation, have now been proposed for the management of grade III haemorrhoids. These approaches aim to correct the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the aetiology of haemorrhoids. An increased risk of recurrence is the price to pay for these minimally invasive and less painful treatments, but the sparing of the sensitive anoderm and a rapid return to normal life without pain are greatly appreciated by patients. An algorithm for the management of haemorrhoids using evidence-based medicine is also presented here.

[Operations for hemorrhoids: indications and techniques]

Haemorrhoidal disease is one of the most common diseases in general and will in most cases progress without therapy. In the therapeutic context the means of choice are conservative therapies and in the advanced stage of the disease operative measures are necessary. In Germany 40,000-50,000 operations are performed each year. Our aim with the currently available various operation techniques is individualized therapy and indications. Thus a high healing rate, low complication rate and high patient satisfaction can be achieved.

Clinical outcome following Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation: a systematic review

AIM

Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHL) has experienced wider uptake and has recently received National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) approval in the UK. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to assess its safety and efficacy.

METHOD

This review was conducted in keeping with PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Studies describing DGHL as a primary procedure and reporting clinical outcome were considered. Primary end-points were recurrence and postoperative pain. Secondary end-points included operation time, complications and reintervention rates. Studies were scored for quality with either Jadad score or NICE scoring guidelines.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies including 2904 patients were included in the final analysis. They were of poor overall quality. Recurrence ranged between 3% and 60% (pooled recurrence rate 17.5%), with the highest rates for grade IV haemorrhoids. Postoperative analgesia was required in 0-38% of patients. Overall postoperative complication rates were low, with an overall bleeding rate of 5% and an overall reintervention rate of 6.4%. The operation time ranged from 19 to 35 min.

CONCLUSION

DGHL is safe and efficacious with a low level of postoperative pain. It can be safely considered for primary treatment of grade II and III haemorrhoids.

Transanal desarterialization guided by Doppler associated to anorectal repair in hemorrhoids: THD technic

INTRODUCTION

Surgical treatment for hemorrhoids should be indicated individually and is based on the predominant symptom (bleeding or prolapse), severity of disease and the presence or absence of external component (plicoma). Surgeons must choose among varied techniques the one suitable for each case.

TECHNIC

The THD procedure consists of Doppler guided high ligation, selective to up six submucosal arterial branches that supply the hemorrhoids, leading to its desarterialization associated with prolapse repair (anorectal repair or lifting). It uses special equipment and kit.

CONCLUSION

THD technique has shown good initial results. Because surgical technique respects the anatomy, it acts directly on the pathophysiology of the disease and corrects its principal consequences; it looks quite promising. Its initial application may be in patients with hemorrhoids grade II, which have surgical indication, grades III and IV, the latter being associated with resection of plicomas.