Stapling procedure for haemorrhoids versus Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy: randomised controlled trial

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.

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 ).

Long-term outcomes of high-volume stapled hemorroidopexy to treat symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease

PURPOSE

The study aimed to assess the long-term results of the stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH) using high-volume devices equipped with innovative technology, evaluating recurrence rate, complications rate, and patients' satisfaction.

METHODS

All the patients who underwent SH using high-volume devices (TST Starr plus, Touchstone International Medical Science Corp., Ltd.) for II to IV symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease from November 2012 to December 2014 were enrolled. Between December 2019 and January 2020, all of them were phone called to come to undergo a proctological reevaluation and asked to fill some questionnaires about hemorrhoidal prolapse recurrence, symptoms recurrence, and surgery satisfaction.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients with a mean age of 47 years completely answered the questionnaires. Twenty-two of them accepted to come to undergo a proctological reevaluation while 27 preferred to answer only by phone due to their referred wellbeing. The median follow-up was 70.5 months (range, 60-84 months). The recurrence rate was 5.1% with a mean satisfaction level after surgery was 9.1 (range, 0-10) and 84.7% of patients whose satisfaction scored ≥8. The mean value of Cleveland Global Quality of Life assessment was 0.79 (range, 0.71-0.93). There were no cases of new onset of impaired anal continence after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The new generation high-volume devices to perform SH resulted to be safe and effective for II to IV degree hemorrhoidal prolapse leading to a lower long-term recurrence rate with an evident reduction of postoperative complications in comparison with the low-volume SH.

Top 100 most-cited articles on hemorrhoids: A bibliometric analysis and visualized study

Background

Hemorrhoids have a significant incidence in people and are becoming a common public health problem. This study provides a bibliometric and visualized analysis of the most influential literature in the field. The aim is to reveal trends in the field of hemorrhoids and to provide a reference for researchers.

Methods

The 100 most frequently cited studies in the field of hemorrhoids were collected from the Web of Science(WOS), and were analyzed in terms of the annual publication, types of literature, countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords. During the study, we used a combination of VosViewer, Carrot2, Microsoft Excel, and Tableau tools to better present the visual information.

Results

A total of 4,481 articles were retrieved, of which 3,592 were of the Article and Review types, among which we selected the 100 most frequently cited. A large amount of highly cited literature on hemorrhoid surgery emerged from 1990 to 2010, and the interest of researchers in hemorrhoid surgery seems to have waned after 2010. The sources of highly cited literature in the field of hemorrhoids are predominantly Western, with the United States. and the United Kingdom accounting for almost half of the publications worldwide. However, countries with higher prevalence populations do not have significant research on hemorrhoids. St. Mark's Hospital has published the largest number of influential articles in the field of hemorrhoid disease. Kamm MA and Phillips RKS are the most authoritative authors in the field. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum and the British Journal of Surgery are the most influential journals in this field. The highly cited literature covers a wide range of disciplines, with Thomson's classic “The nature of hemorrhoids” receiving the most attention among the studies focusing on hemorrhoids. Keyword and clustering analysis revealed that The most famous focus in the field of hemorrhoid research is the evolution of stapled hemorrhoidectomy (SH) and Milligan-morgan hemorrhoidectomy (MMH).

Conclusions

This study is the first to explore developments in the field of hemorrhoids, and it helps surgeons quickly understand global trends in the field of hemorrhoids. In recent years, the development of hemorrhoids seems to have hit a bottleneck, with scholarly interest in the field of waning, especially in surgery Procedures. The theory of inferior anal cushion migration has proven to be the most influential theory in the field, but after studies based on SH and MMH, more high-quality evidence is needed to continue advancing the field of hemorrhoids. The results of this study are intended to add to the attention and interest of scholars in this area and provide a reference for further research.

Correlation Between Poor Defecation Habits and Postoperative Hemorrhoid Recurrence

Background

The relationship between hemorrhoid recurrence and poor defecation habits is poorly understood. This study aimed to analyze the effects of poor defecation habits on postoperative hemorrhoid recurrence.

Materials and Method

We performed a retrospective study on 1,162 consecutive patients who underwent a surgical procedure for hemorrhoids at the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University from December 2016 to May 2020. All patients were followed for 12 months post-operatively. Patients were monitored for disease recurrence. Patient defecation habits were assessed using an obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) score.

Results

Patients with a score of 0–4 had a mild defecation disorder, 5–8 a moderate defecation disorder, and 9 or more ODS. Of the 1,162 patients, 1,144 (98.45%) had a mild defecation disorder, 13 (1.12%) had a moderate defecation disorder, and 9 (0.43%) had ODS. Older patients were significantly more likely to have worse defecation habits (P < 0.001). A higher ODS score correlated with a higher maximum anal squeeze pressure (P = 0.07) and a more severe inability for the anus to relax during simulated evacuation (P = 0.002). The maximum rectum threshold was also found to be the highest in ODS patients (P = 0.010). The proportion of Procedure for prolapsing hemorrhoids (PPH) was the highest in the moderate defecation disorder group (53.85), followed by the ODS group (40.00) and the mild defecation disorder group (P = 0.023). Recurrence occurred in 5.51% of patients in the mild defecation disorder group, 38.46% of the moderate defecation disorder group, and 60% of the ODS group (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis confirmed a higher ODS score (P < 0.001) was an independent predictor of recurrence. Furthermore, patients who occasionally exercised (P = 0.01) and patients who exercised regularly (P = 0.021) were less likely to have a recurrence.

Conclusion

Patients with unresolved defecation disorders are more likely to have their hemorrhoids recur and are unlikely to be satisfied with surgical management.

STAPLED HEMORRHOIDOPEXY: RESULTS, LATE COMPLICATIONS, AND DEGREE OF SATISFACTION AFTER 16 YEARS OF FOLLOW-UP

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy has been widely used for the treatment of hemorrhoids, but concerns about complications and recurrences after prolonged follow-up are still under debate.

Post-hemorrhoidectomy pain: can surgeons reduce it? A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials

PURPOSE

Hemorrhoidectomy remains the gold standard treatment for grade III-IV hemorrhoids. However, despite strong recommendations for the suitability of outpatient surgery, post-operative pain has been a limitation to the widespread inclusion of this condition in day surgery programs. The aims of the study were to analyze and compare the post-operative pain of conventional open hemorrhoidectomy, considered the reference technique, against other surgical procedures such as closed hemorrhoidectomy, open hemorrhoidectomy using bipolar or ultrasonic sealant, hemorrhoidopexy, or HAL-RAR, when performed exclusively as outpatients.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA methodology. All prospective and randomized studies of patients operated on for hemorrhoids in day surgery and specifying the value of post-operative pain, using a validated scale, were included. Conventional meta-analyses and a random-effects network meta-analysis were carried out.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included (3309 patients). None of the procedures described severe pain in the post-operative period. Hemorrhoidopexy was the least painful. Conventional open hemorrhoidectomy was the most painful on the first and seventh post-operative days. Pain was reduced after closed hemorrhoidectomy technique and when bipolar or harmonic scalpel was used. Furthermore, transfixive ligation of the hemorrhoidal pedicle was associated with increased post-operative pain.

CONCLUSION

Hemorrhoidal surgery is feasible in day surgery units and post-operative pain can be adequately managed in an outpatient setting. Hemorrhoidopexy was the least painful; however, data should be carefully evaluated by the high rate of long-term recurrence described in literature. Closed hemorrhoidectomy, performed with bipolar or ultrasonic sealing, avoiding transfixive ligation of the hemorrhoidal pedicle, may improve post-operative pain control.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

CRD42020185160.

Postoperative outcomes of intrasphincteric botox injection during hemorrhoidectomy: A double-blind clinical trial

Background

Pain is the most common postoperative complication of hemorrhoidectomy. We evaluated the effectiveness of intrasphincteric Botox injection on posthemorrhoidectomy complications including pain reduction and wound healing.

Materials and Methods

In this randomized, double-blind clinical trial, patients with Grades 3 or 4 symptomatic hemorrhoids who underwent open (Milligan-Morgan) hemorrhoidectomy were enrolled. The experimental group received intrasphincteric Botox injection during hemorrhoidectomy, while the controls received normal saline injection. Hemorrhoid grades, constipation status, history of hemorrhoidectomy, duration of operation, pain at rest and after defecation in six follow-up periods (6, 12, 24, and 48 h and 7 and 14 days after operation), wound healing (during follow-up after discharge with a 2-week period), analgesic use, and Botox side effects were evaluated and compared in the two experimental and control groups.

Results

In this trial, 34 and 33 patients were randomly allocated in the experimental and control groups, respectively. Operation time was significantly higher in Botox group (P = 0.009). Mean dose of analgesics use in Botox was significantly lower (P < 0.001). Rate of wound healing during follow-ups was significantly higher in Botox group in the fifth follow-up (P = 0.009). Frequency of urinary retention (P = 0.02) and moderate itching (P = 0.01) was significantly higher in placebo than Botox group. Mean of postoperative pain at rest in Botox group was significantly lower at 12^th, 24^th, and 48^th h and 7^th and 14^th days after operation (P < 0.01). Mean of postoperative pain in Botox group was significantly lower at 3^rd to 5^th defecation (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that a single-dose injection of Botox during Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy is associated with less postsurgical pain at rest and during defecation and improved wound healing. It is suggested that it is a safe and effective procedure during hemorrhoidectomy regarding the procedure-related complications.

An update on surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pathologic hemorrhoids are common among adults age 45-65. Hemorrhoids are characterized as internal or external, and grades 1-4 based on severity. The type and grade dictate treatment, with surgical treatment reserved for grades 3/4. The aim of this study is to compare clinical outcomes of various surgical treatments.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify randomized clinical trials that compare surgical treatments for grade 3/4 hemorrhoids. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was done using NetMetaXL and WinBUGS.

RESULTS

A total of 26 studies with 3137 participants and 14 surgical treatments for grade 3/4 hemorrhoids were included. Pain was less in patients with techniques such as laser (OR 0.34, CI 0.01-6.51), infrared photocoagulation (OR 0.38, CI 0.02-5.61), and stapling (OR 0.48, CI 0.19-1.25), compared to open and closed hemorrhoidectomies. There was less recurrence with Starion (OR 0.01, CI 0.00-0.46) and harmonic scalpel (OR 0.00, CI 0.00-0.49), compared to infrared photocoagulation and transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization. Fewer postoperative clinical complications were seen with infrared photocoagulation (OR 0.04, CI 0.00-2.54) and LigaSure (OR 0.16, CI 0.03-0.79), compared to suture ligation and open hemorrhoidectomy. With Doppler-guided (OR 0.26, CI 0.05-1.51) and stapled (OR 0.36, CI 0.15-0.84) techniques, patients return to work earlier when compared to open hemorrhoidectomy and laser.

CONCLUSION

There are multiple favorable techniques without a clear "gold standard" based on current literature. Open discussion should be had between patients and physicians to guide individualized care.

Postoperative Pain as a Decision-Making Tool in Treating Hemorrhoids on an In- or Out-Patient Basis After Stapled Mucosectomy (Longo Procedure)

Objective

Stapled mucosectomy (Longo operation) is a frequently used procedure for the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. It is a simple procedure yet similar to resective techniques for patients who frequently suffer from relevant postoperative pain. The aim of our present study is to examine patient satisfaction based on the operative setting (outpatient versus inpatient treatment) in patients undergoing the Longo operation for Grade III or IV hemorrhoids.

Materials and methods

Outcomes of all patients undergoing stapled mucosectomy for Grade III and IV hemorrhoids at 3 different Swiss public hospitals was analyzed retrospectively and compared with respect to in- or outpatient treatment. Patient satisfaction was recorded by subsequent telephone interviews.

Results

From a total of 213 patients with stapled mucosectomies, datasets of 144 patients (67.6%) were available for full analysis. A total of 124 patients (86.1%) were satisfied with the treatment and 110 (76%) would choose to undergo the Longo procedure again (P &lt; 0.01). Recurrence of recurrent hemorrhoidal symptoms is negatively correlated with the willingness of undergoing the Longo procedure again (r = −0.187, P = 0.025). Patient satisfaction was not associated with the operative setting (inpatient vs. out-patient setting). Postoperative pain increased the willingness to be hospitalized overnight (r = 0.227, P &lt; 0.01).

Conclusion

Patient satisfaction after stapled mucosectomy is mainly related to postoperative pain and recurrence of hemorrhoidal symptoms regardless of inpatient or outpatient treatment.

Long-Term Outcomes of Sectorial Longitudinal Augmented Prolapsectomy for Asymmetric Muco-hemorrhoidal Prolapse: An Observational Study of 433 Consecutive Patients

PURPOSE

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is a widespread condition severely influencing patients' quality of life. Recently, the large diffusion of stapled hemorrhoidopexy has revealed a new unexpected pathological entity: the asymmetric mucosal prolapse. We aimed to assess the outcomes of the sectorial longitudinal augmented prolapsectomy (SLAP), a technique dedicated to asymmetric prolapse, in terms of HD symptoms, prolapse recurrence, and rectal stenosis.

METHODS

Patients affected by III-IV-degree symptomatic HD with asymmetric mucosal prolapse undergone SLAP of 1 or 2 hemorrhoidal columns (SLAP1 or SLAP2) were retrospectively assessed. The severity of hemorrhoid symptoms and fecal continence status were evaluated before and after surgery. Mean outcome was evaluation of medium-long-term outcomes as the occurrence of recurrence and anal or rectal stenosis. Secondary outcome was the evaluation of postoperative bleeding, reoperation rate, length of hospitalization, fecal urgency, and time to return to work.

RESULTS

We enrolled 433 patients (277 SLAP1 and 156 SLAP2). Hemorrhoidal symptoms recurrence was reported in 9 patients undergone SLAP1 and 4 patients undergone SLAP2, while prolapse recurrence occurred, respectively, in 4 and 2 patients. No major intraoperative complications occurred. An emergency reintervention for postoperative bleeding occurred in 13 cases undergone SLAP1 and in 5 patients treated with SLAP2. Fecal incontinence occurred in 8 and 4 cases of patients treated with SLAP1 and SLAP2.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of a simple hemorrhoidectomy to a mucosal rectal prolapsectomy should be part of every coloproctologist background. Promising and satisfying results can be achieved using SLAP for HD associated with asymmetric prolapse.

A systematic review of the literature assessing the outcomes of stapled haemorrhoidopexy versus open haemorrhoidectomy

Background

Symptomatic haemorrhoids affect a large number of patients throughout the world. The aim of this systematic review was to compare the surgical outcomes of stapled haemorrhoidopexy (SH) versus open haemorrhoidectomy (OH) over a 20-year period.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials published between January 1998 and January 2019 were extracted from Pubmed using defined search criteria. Study characteristics and outcomes in the form of short-term and long-term complications of the two techniques were analyzed. Any changes in trend of outcomes over time were assessed by comparing article groups 1998–2008 and 2009–2019.

Results

Twenty-nine and 9 relevant articles were extracted for the 1998–2008 (period 1) and 2009–2019 (period 2) cohorts, respectively. Over the two time periods, SH was found to be a safe procedure, associated with statistically reduced operative time (in 13/21 studies during period 1 and in 3/8 studies during period 2), statistically less intraoperative bleeding (3/7 studies in period 1 and 1/1 study in period 2) and consistently less early postoperative pain on the visual analogue scale (12/15 studies in period 1 and 4/5 studies in period 2) resulting in shorter hospital stay (12/20 studies in period 1 and 2/2 studies in period 2) at the expense of a higher cost. In the longer term, although chronic pain in SH and OH patents is comparable, patient satisfaction with SH may decline with time and at 2-year follow-up OH appeared to be associated with greater patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

SH appears to be safe with potential advantages, at least in the short term, but the evidence is lacking at the moment to suggest its routine use in clinical practice.

Rektale Endo-SPONGE®-Therapie bei retroperitonealem Hämatom nach komplexer Hämorrhoidektomie

Die zirkuläre Hämorrhoidopexie ist eine häufig angewandte Operationstechnik bei fortgeschrittenem Hämorrhoidalleiden. Trotz der scheinbar technischen Einfachheit kann es in seltenen Fällen zu lebensbedrohlichen Komplikationen kommen. Es wird über den Fall einer Patientin berichtet, die durch eine Blutung aus der Klammernaht nach Hämorrhoidopexie ein retroperitoneales Hämatom mit konsekutiver Perforation der Klammernaht entwickelte. Eine solche Komplikation ist bislang kaum beschrieben worden. Entgegen ähnlicher Fälle konnte auf eine transabdominelle operative Sanierung verzichtet werden. Die perirektale Hämatomhöhle wurde erfolgreich durch die Einlage von rektalen Endo-SPONGEs® therapiert.

Evaluating the ability of the Sodergren score to guide the management of internal haemorrhoidal disease

AIM

The Sodergren score was developed to objectively measure the severity of haemorrhoidal symptoms. This study aimed to determine if there was a difference in the Sodergren score between patients who were offered surgery and patients who underwent successful rubber band ligation of internal haemorrhoidal disease and to assess its performance in guiding management.

METHOD

This is a prospective, observational study. The preintervention Sodergren scores of subjects with internal haemorrhoidal disease were recorded and blinded to the surgeon in charge. Sodergren scores of subjects in the two arms were unblinded and compared at the end of the study.

RESULTS

The results for 290 patients were available for final analysis. The median scores of those offered surgery and those who underwent successful rubber band ligation differed significantly [4 (interquartile range 3-10) vs 0 (interquartile range 0-4), P = 0.001]. In predicting treatment, the Sodergren score had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.735 (95% CI 0.675-0.795).

CONCLUSION

There is a significant difference in scores between patients who were offered surgery and patients with successful rubber band ligation. Our study suggests that the Sodergren score has an acceptable discrimination in predicting the need for surgery in internal haemorrhoidal disease. We propose that patients with a Sodergren score of 6 or more be considered for upfront surgery. This score could potentially be used to standardize outcomes of future haemorrhoid trials.

TRANSANAL HAEMORRHOIDAL DEARTERIALIZATION WITH MUCOPEXY (THD-M) FOR TREATMENT OF HEMORRHOIDS: IS IT APPLICABLE IN ALL GRADES? BRAZILIAN MULTICENTER STUDY

Background:

Transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy (THD-M) is a valuable option for treating patients with haemorrhoidal disease. However, there is still controversy with regard to its efficacy for more advanced grades.

Aim:

To evaluate the effectiveness of THD-M technique for treating hemorrhoidal disease and to compare the immediate and late results in different grades.

Method:

Seven hundred and five consecutive patients with Goligher’s grade II, III or IV symptomatic haemorrhoids underwent surgical treatment using the THD-M method in five participating centres. Six well-trained and experienced surgeons operated on the patients. Average follow-up was 21 months (12-48).

Results:

Intraoperative complications were observed in 1.1% of cases, including four cases of haematoma, two of laceration of the mucosa, and two of bleeding. All of these were controlled by means of haemostatic suturing. In relation to postoperative complications, the most common of these were as follows: transitory tenesmus (21.4%); pain (7.2%); mucosal or haemorrhoidal prolapse (6.4%); residual skin tag (5.6%); faecal impaction (3.2%); haemorrhoidal thrombosis (2.8%); bleeding (2.1%); anal fissure (0.7%); and anal abscess (0.3%). Most of the complications were treated conservatively, and only 7.5% (53/705) required some type of surgical approach. There was no mortality or any severe complications. The recurrence of prolapse and bleeding was greater in patients with grade IV haemorrhoidal disease than in those with grade III and II (26.54% and 7.96% vs. 2.31% and 0.92% vs. 2.5% and 1.25%), respectively.

Conclusion:

The THD-M method is safe and effective for haemorrhoidal disease grades II and III with low rates of surgical complications. However, for grade IV hemorrhoids, it is associated with higher recurrence of prolapse and bleeding. So, THD-M method should not be considered as an effective option for the treatment of grade IV hemorrhoids.

Long-Term Results After Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: A 15-Year Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

The stapled hemorrhoidopexy is reported to have a low recurrence while treating the major hemorrhoidal symptoms of bleeding and prolapse. The aim of this study is to obtain long-term results on the outcome of the stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

METHODS

All patients with a hemorrhoidal disease grade III, who underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy from May 1999-December 2003, were included. Data collection was based on a standardized telephone interview. In the questionnaire, we recorded information regarding the postoperative recurrence and severity of hemorrhoidal symptoms (defined as bleeding, prolapse, burning, itching and moisture), further hemorrhoidal treatments and functional results (incontinence, fecal urgency and outlet obstruction) as well as patients' satisfaction.

RESULTS

Of the 257 patients, who underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy, follow-up data were available in 140 patients. In 47.4% of the patients, a recurrence of at least one hemorrhoidal symptom was registered, whereas this recurrence was observed in 47.3% of these patients more than 10 years postoperatively. A surgical re-intervention was necessary in 15.2%. We found a postoperative new incontinence in 15.5%, a fecal urgency in 28.0% and an outlet obstruction in 9.4%. Of all patients, 62.3% were "very satisfied" with the operation.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study revealed a relatively high recurrence of hemorrhoidal symptoms after a mean follow-up of 15 years with a high recurrence rate more than 10 years postoperatively. In consideration of not negligible risk of incontinence, fecal urgency and outlet obstruction, the indication for a stapled hemorrhoidopexy should be made well considered. However, patients' satisfaction is very high.

Integrated Treatment With Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy and Proctonorm® of Haemorrhoidal Disease

BACKGROUND/AIM

This retrospective study was performed in patients undergoing Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy (SH) who were post-operatively treated with Proctonorm® with the aim of assessing its effect on early and late haemorrhoidal-related symptoms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-six males and 54 females received Proctonorm® (one tablet twice daily for 14 days) and Ketoprofene R (200 mg, one tablet twice daily, as requested).

RESULTS

"Early Complication Score" (0-12) two days after surgery was 2.02±1.03; pain VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) (0-10) was 1.21±0.89, and the number of anti-inflammatory tablets was 4.24±1.06. At 40-day post-operative assessment, seven patients had post-operative complications with "Late Complication Score" (0-20) of 0.34±0.68. At six-month follow-up, a high index of patient satisfaction (VAS=9.39±0.24) was self-reported with 75% reduction in CSS (Constipation Scoring System) (1.95±2.58) compared to preoperative scores; "Late Complication Score" was 0.

CONCLUSION

The specific target activity of Proctonorm® at the microcircular level may be effective in patients undergoing SH in order to reduce the inflammatory response of residual haemorrhoids while waiting for stable resolution of symptoms within one or two weeks.

Segmental resection combined with anoplasty for the treatment of circumferential mixed hemorrhoids

Circumferential mixed hemorrhoids are very difficult to treat non-surgically. Therefore, it is important to explore the surgical methods for its complete resolution as well as maintenance of normal anal anatomy and function. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of segmented and plastic hemorrhoidectomy (SPH) on patients with circumferential mixed hemorrhoids. A total of 300 patients with circumferential mixed hemorrhoids were divided into experimental group (n=150) undergoing SPH and control group (n=150) undergoing Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy. There were no differences in cure and effectiveness rates between two groups. Compared with the control group, patients in the experimental group had shorter healing time (15.7±1.3 vs 12.5±0.7 days) and recovery to normal activity (18.5±2.7 vs 14.7±1.2 days). In addition, anal function of all patients in the experimental group was normal during short- and long-term follow-up. However, more cases in the control group showed anal dampness and itching, and poor control of intestinal liquid. Compared with the control group, patients in the experimental group had better outcomes in overall anal function and smoothness at 6, 12, and 18 months after operation as well as patient satisfaction. Furthermore, the rating in the visual analogue scale for defecation pain and edema in the experimental group was less than that in the control group. SPH was more effective, had fewer complications, better protection of anal function, and a better cosmetic result.

THE RUSSIAN ASSOCIATION OF COLOPROCTOLOGY CLINICAL GUIDELINES FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF HEMORRHOIDS

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[Quality indicators in the treatment of hemorrhoids]

BACKGROUND

A quality indicator is a quantitative measure that can be used to monitor and evaluate the quality of certain operative procedures that may influence the result of a therapy. An indicator is not a direct measure of quality, it is merely a tool to evaluate the performance of procedures and can indicate potential problem areas.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A literature search was performed for parameters which could be included as indicators of quality in the treatment of hemorrhoids.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

In the treatment of benign diseases, such as hemorrhoids objective indicators (e.g. recurrence or survival rates in oncological diseases) cannot be used as quality indicators. Other indicators or core outcome factors must be used. From the patient's point of view other indicators are important (such as pain, complications, continence, days off work, etc.) than those for the colorectal surgeon, health insurance and healthcare provider. The most important indicators or outcome factors for treatment of hemorrhoids are postprocedural pain, patient satisfaction, complications, residual and recurrent symptoms, pain, quality of life, costs and duration of inability to work. In terms of outcome quality various quality indicators could be identified which also play a role in the guidelines; however, in this respect valid questionnaires or scores that enable a uniform assessment exist only in a few cases. In contrast, some indicators (e. g. costs, length of hospital stay) are strongly influenced by factors such as the healthcare system making these indicators unfeasible.

Topical Analgesia with Lidocaine Plus Diclofenac Decreases Pain in Benign Anorectal Surgery: Randomized, Double-blind, and Controlled Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a topical formulation containing lidocaine plus diclofenac (CLIFE1) compared to lidocaine (CLIFE2), to decrease pain in benign anorectal surgery (BARS) to date not evaluated. More than 50% of patients undergoing BARS, especially hemorrhoidectomy, suffer from moderate and severe postoperative pain. This remains an unresolved problem that could be addressed with the new CLIFE1 topical treatment.

METHODS

A multicenter, randomized double-blind, active-controlled parallel-group superiority trial, was conducted in two Spanish hospitals. Patients undergoing BARS (hemorrhoids, anal fistula and anal fissure) were randomized at the end of surgery at a 1:1 ratio to receive first dose either CLIFE1 (n = 60) or CLIFE2 (n = 60) anorectal topical treatment, and after every 12 h for the first three postoperative days and once a day from the fourth to sixth. The primary outcome was average of pain decrease after topical treatment, measured with visual analogue scale (VAS) by the patients themselves, the evening in the surgery day and four times daily for the first three postoperative days.

RESULTS

The results of 120 patients included out of 150 selected undergoing BARS show a decrease in pain after CLIFE1 topical treatment (7.47 ± 13.09) greater than with CLIFE2 (4.38 ± 6.75), difference -3.21 95% CI (-5.75; -0.68), p = 0.008, decreasing significantly postoperative pain ( ≥ 9 mm, VAS) in 35% of patients undergoing benign anorectal surgery, compared to 18.33 % treated with lidocaine.

CONCLUSIONS

The CLIFE1 topical treatment shows better analgesic efficacy than CLIFE2 in BARS.

Partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy: clinical aspects and impact on anorectal physiology

Objective:

to evaluate the impact of partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy on anorectal physiology, the complications related to this surgical technique, pain, postoperative bleeding and recurrence of hemorrhoidal disease one year after surgery.

Methods:

this is a prospective, descriptive study in consecutive patients with mixed or internal hemorrhoidal disease, the internal component being classified as grade III or IV, undergoing partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

Results:

we studied 17 patients, 82% of them with internal hemorrhoids grade III and 18% grade IV. The mean operative time was 09:09 minutes (07:03 to 12:13). The median pain in the immediate postoperative period evaluated by the numerical pain scale was one (0 to 7). The median time to return to work was nine days (4 to 19). No patient had anal stenosis and 76% were satisfied with the surgery 90 days postoperatively. When comparing the preoperative manometry data with that measured 90 days after surgery, none of the variables studied showed statistically significant difference. There was no recurrence of hemorrhoidal disease with one year of postoperative follow-up.

Conclusion:

partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy showed no impact on anorectal physiology, presenting low levels of complications and postoperative pain, without recurrence of hemorrhoidal disease in one year of follow-up.

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: Results at 10-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Despite the advantages of stapled hemorrhoidopexy reported in the literature in terms of postoperative pain, hospital stay, and duration of convalescence, it was described to have a higher recurrence rate compared with conventional hemorrhoidectomy.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction after stapled hemorrhoidopexy at 10-year follow-up.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort analysis conducted on prospectively collected data.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at a single tertiary care center.

PATIENTS

Eighty-six consecutive patients treated with stapled hemorrhoidopexy for grade 3 hemorrhoidal prolapse between January and December 2006 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Patients satisfaction and recurrence rates were measured.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients (45 men and 41 women; median age, 49 y (range, 31-74 y)) underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy. Eight patients had urinary retention during the immediate postoperative period, and 2 patients required a reoperation for suture line bleeding. The median hospital stay was 12 hours (range, 12-96 h). No suture line dehiscence, rectovaginal fistula, pelvic sepsis, anal abscess, or anal stenosis was recorded during the follow-up. Seventy-seven patients (90%) completed the expected follow-up, with a median duration of 119.0 months (range 115.4-121.8 mo). Among them, 30 patients (39%) experienced a recurrent hemorrhoidal prolapse, 8 of whom needed a reoperation. Thirty-four patients (44%) reported urge to defecate with a median visual analog scale of 1 (range, 1-7). Six patients (8%) reported gas leakage at the last follow-up visit, whereas no liquid or solid stool leakage was recorded. Satisfaction rate at 10-year follow-up was 68%.

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by its small sample size and lack of a control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The high recurrence rate and low patient satisfaction rate showed that stapled hemorrhoidopexy reduces its efficacy in the long-term. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A510.

Modified Doppler-guided laser procedure for the treatment of second- and third-degree hemorrhoids

Background

Hemorrhoids are a common anorectal condition with a major medical and socioeconomic impact. Owing to the high incidence of symptomatic hemorrhoids in the adult population together with the risk of complications of traditional surgery, researchers are seeking less invasive methods of hemorrhoidal treatment.The aim of this study was to present our experience with the mini-invasive Doppler guided hemorrhoidal laser procedure (HeLP) in symptomatic 2nd and 3rd degree hemorrhoids with absent or minimal mucosal prolapse.

Methods

The cohort included 62 patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids who underwent the HeLP at a tertiary medical center in 2014-2016. Data were collected on clinical and perioperative characteristics and outcome. Findings were compared between patients with second- and third-degree hemorrhoids.

Results

The cohort included 41 male and 21 female patients of mean age 41.5 years. Fifty-one had bleeding and 11 had hemorrhoidal syndrome. Mean operative time was 16.6 ± 3.7 minutes. A total of 8-12 arterial branches were treated. Patients were discharged home within a mean of 91.95 ± 20.48 minutes and allowed to resume normal activities. Compared to patients with second-degree hemorrhoids, patients with third-degree hemorrhoids had a significantly higher rate of recto-anal repair (18.2% vs 0, p < 0.05), intraoperative bleeding (11.3% vs 5%, p < 0.05), and thrombus formation in the hemorrhoids (11.3 % vs 0, p < 0.01). At the six-month follow-up, no complications were reported, and there was significant improvement in symptoms.Using the visual analog scale, no pain was reported by 82.3% of patients at one week after surgery and 95.2% of patients at one month after surgery.

Conclusion

Patients with hemorrhoids treated with Doppler-guided laser had an excellent outcome in terms of resolution of symptoms and postoperative pain. Only Minor short-term complications were noted. Doppler-guided laser seems to be an effective and painless technique for the treatment of symptomatic second- to third grade hemorrhoids with minimal mucosal prolapse.

Evaluation of the effectiveness and patients' contentment with transanal haemorrhoidal artery dearterialisation and mucopexy (THD) for treatment of haemorrhoidal disease: a 6-year study

INTRODUCTION

With high incidence of haemorrhoidal disease and significant complication rates of traditional haemorrhoidectomy procedures, transanal haemorrhoidal artery ligation and mucopexy (THD) emerges as a minimally invasive procedure with superior results. However, it is crucial that effectiveness of results and patient satisfaction be gauged based on post-operative experience, symptomology and recurrence.

AIM

Our aim is to provide a long-term analysis of efficacy and patient's satisfaction for the procedure, for the largest patient population, in correlation to presenting symptoms and degree of haemorrhoids.

METHOD

A prospective study was conducted for all the patients (324) that underwent THD between 2011 and 2016 in Naas General Hospital. The assessment was done for postoperative complications, symptoms pre- and postoperatively and patients' satisfaction rating. Clinical follow-up was done after 6 weeks and long-term follow-up by standardized questionnaire filled by telephonic clinic.

RESULTS

Of the 324 patients who underwent surgery, 256 (79.0%) participated in the study. There were 119 (46.5%) males and 137 (53.5%) females. The average age of patients was 48.40 years (17-82). Two hundred and fifteen (84.0%) patients had no recurrence. Forty-one (16.0%) had recurrence requiring further treatment. There was statistically significant higher recurrence in patients with grade 3 and 4 haemorrhoids and per-rectal bleeding (p < 0.05) while there was no statistically significant recurrence for age, gender, sedentary lifestyle and constipation/pruritus. Two hundred and twenty-four (87.5%) patients were completely satisfied from the procedure and highly recommend the procedure.

CONCLUSION

THD is a comparably pain-free procedure with improved results that prides in higher long-term satisfaction, minimal recurrence and fewer complications, in comparison to other surgical modalities.

Procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) with low rectal anastomosis using a PPH 03 stapler: low rate of recurrence and postoperative complications

PURPOSE

The procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) has the advantage of less postoperative pain. However, serious postoperative complications have been reported after PPH, and the postoperative recurrence rate is high in comparison with conventional Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy (MMH). The purpose of this study was to evaluate PPH with low rectal anastomosis (PPH-LA) in comparison with the original PPH and MMH.

METHODS

Among a total of 1315 patients with hemorrhoids, MMH was conducted in 322, original PPH using a PPH 01 stapler (PPH01) in 63, PPH-LA using 01 (PPH-LA01) in 236, 03 (PPH-LA03) in 649, and sclerotherapy (SCL) in 45.

RESULTS

Length of hospital stay and number of working days lost were significantly greater for MMH than for any form of PPH. The rate of massive postoperative bleeding was significantly lower after PPH-LA03 than after PPH01 or PPH-LA01. No serious postoperative complications occurred after any form of PPH. A significantly higher proportion of patients complained of continued prolapse after PPH01 than after MMH, PPH-LA01, or -LA03. The 5- and 16-year postoperative cumulative recurrence rates after PPH-LA03 were significantly lower than after PPH01.

CONCLUSIONS

The postoperative cumulative recurrence rate after PPH-LA03 is as low as that after MMH for up to 16 years, and compared with the original PPH01, the effectiveness is higher and the postoperative cumulative recurrence rate for up to 16 years is significantly lower. We conclude that PPH-LA03 is a superior procedure for hemorrhoids, having less postoperative pain and a low rate of recurrence.

Doppler-Guided Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (DG-THD) Versus Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (SH) in the Treatment of Third-Degree Hemorrhoids: Clinical Results at Short and Long-Term Follow-Up

INTRODUCTION

The stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH) and the Doppler-guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (DG-THD) are minimally invasive procedures for the surgical treatment of hemorrhoids. This study aims to verify the efficacy of the DG-THD versus the SH in the treatment of third-degree hemorrhoids.

METHOD

One hundred consecutive patients were causally allocated to either procedure, obtaining two groups of 50 pts. A clinical examination was performed at 3, 7, 15, and 30 days after the operation. Quality of life, anal symptoms, recurrence of hemorrhoids, and reoperation were assessed by means of a questionnaire and of a clinical examination at long-term follow-up (7.0 year average).

RESULTS

At short-term follow-up, the median postoperative pain score was significantly lower in DG-THD group compared to SH group, (V.A.S 2 vs 6; t = 2.65, p < 0.01). The morbidity rate and the return to normal life and work were similar after the two procedures. At long-term follow-up, the incidence of piles was not statistically different between the two groups (DG-THD 10.0 %; SH 14.0 %). No differences were reported by patients in terms of satisfaction for surgery.

CONCLUSION

SH and DG-THD procedures do not show significantly different results with regard to the patients outcome. However, considering the lower p. o. pain, the DG-THD might be proposed as the first line treatment in third-degree hemorrhoids.

Documented complications of staple hemorrhoidopexy: a systematic review

A systematic review addressing reported complications of stapled hemorrhoidopexy was conducted. Articles were identified via searching OVID and MEDLINE between July 2011 and October 2013. Limitations were placed on the search criteria with articles published from 1998 to 2013 being included in this review. No language restrictions were placed on the search, however foreign language articles were not translated. Two reviewers independently screened the abstracts for relevance and their suitability for inclusion. Data extraction was conducted by both reviewers and entered and analyzed in Microsoft Excel. The search identified 784 articles and 78 of these were suitable for inclusion in the review. A total of 14,232 patients underwent a stapled hemorrhoidopexy in this review. Overall complication rates of stapled hemorrhoidopexy ranged from 3.3%-81% with 5 mortalities documented. Early and late complications were defined individually with overall data suggesting that early complications ranged from 2.3%-58.9% and late complications ranged from 2.5%-80%. Complications unique to the procedure were identified and rates recorded. Both early and late complications unique to stapled hemorrhoidopexy were identified and assessed.

Persistent Bleeding Following a Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy

A stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH) is widely used for treatment of patients with grades III and IV hemorrhoids. The SH is easy to perform, is associated with less pain and allows early return to normal activities. However, complications, whether severe or not, have been reported. Here, we present the case of a female patient with persistent bleeding after a SH. The bleeding was caused by the formation of granulation tissue at the stapler line, diagnosed with sigmoidoscopy, and successfully treated via transanal excision (TAE) under spinal anesthesia. The biopsy showed inflammatory granulation tissue. After the TAE, her symptom was completely gone.

Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy versus Ferguson Haemorrhoidectomy: A Prospective Study with 2-Year Postoperative Follow-up

Patients with grade III or IV haemorrhoids underwent stapled haemorrhoidopexy or Ferguson haemorrhoidectomy (50 patients in each group) between June 2000 and April 2003. Six patients (12.0%) receiving stapled haemorrhoidopexy experienced complications: bleeding (2.0%) and haematoma (4.0%); late complications were anal fissure (4.0%) and recurrence of haemorrhoidal disease (2.0%). Bleeding was treated during the operation by suture ligation and fissures by sphincterotomy; haematomas resolved spontaneously with conservative medical treatment. Of those undergoing Ferguson haemorrhoidectomy, no bleeding occurred postoperatively, however urinary retention was seen in three patients (6.0%) We conclude that Ferguson haemorrhoidectomy was safer than stapled haemorrhoidopexy for bleeding complications, but stapled haemorrhoidopexy was superior to the Ferguson technique in terms of postoperative pain (4.2 versus 7.4 on day 1 after operation, decreasing to 2.2 versus 4.2 at 1 week for stapled haemorrhoidopexy compared with Ferguson haemorrhoidectomy, respectively), duration of hospital stay (92% undergoing stapled haemorrhoidopexy discharged on postoperative day 1) and time to return to normal activities (10.0 ± 1 versus 28.0 ± 2 days, respectively).

High-Volume Transanal Surgery with CPH34 HV for the Treatment of III-IV Degree Haemorrhoids: Final Short-Term Results of an Italian Multicenter Clinical Study

The clinical chart of 621 patients with III-IV haemorrhoids undergoing Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (SH) with CPH34 HV in 2012–2014 was consecutively reviewed to assess its safety and efficacy after at least 12 months of follow-up. Mean volume of prolapsectomy was significantly higher (13.0 mL; SD, 1.4) in larger prolapse (9.3 mL; SD, 1.2) (p < 0.001). Residual or recurrent haemorrhoids occurred in 11 of 621 patients (1.8%) and in 12 of 581 patients (1.9%), respectively. Relapse was correlated with higher preoperative Constipation Scoring System (CSS) (p = 0.000), Pescatori's degree (p = 0.000), Goligher's grade (p = 0.003), prolapse exceeding half of the length of the Circular Anal Dilator (CAD) (p = 0.000), and higher volume of prolapsectomy (p = 0.000). At regression analysis, only the preoperative CSS, Pescatori's degree, Goligher's grade, and volume of resection were significantly predictive of relapse. A high level of satisfaction (VAS = 8.6; SD, 1.0) coupled with a reduction of 12-month CSS (Δ preoperative CSS/12 mo CSS = 3.4, SD, 2.0; p < 0.001) was observed. The wider prolapsectomy achievable with CPH34 HV determined an overall 3.7% relapse rate in patients with high prevalence of large internal rectal prolapse, coupled with high satisfaction index, significant reduction of CSS, and very low complication rates.

Proctitis after stapled hemorrhoidopexy is an underestimated complication of a widely used surgical procedure: a retrospective observational cohort study in 129 patients

Background

Hemorrhoidal disease is highly prevalent in the western world. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy also known as the procedure for prolapsed hemorrhoids (pph) has been shown to be superior to conventional hemorrhoidectomy with regard to postoperative pain, length of hospital stay and early return to work. Proctitis following stapled hemorrhoidopexy has not been reported previously. Herein, we report our experience with proctitis in patients following stapled hemorrhoidopexy and question if proctitis could be a complication of stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of the data of patients undergoing stapled hemorrhoidopexy with the PPH03 in the coloproctology unit of the department of surgery of a primary care hospital in Germany within a 5-year period was performed. All cases were managed and followed up by a single attending surgeon with expertise in coloproctology.

Results

129 patients were included for analysis including 21 cases with grade 2, 103 cases of grade 3 and 5 cases of grade 4 hemorrhoids. The median duration of surgery was 20 min. 17 complications including two recurrences were recorded. Post-pph proctitis was recorded in 14 cases (10.9 %). Post-pph proctitis was not associated with gender, extent of hemorrhoidal disease, BMI and ASA (p >0.05). All cases recovered within 4 weeks following management with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and suppositories.

Conclusion

Proctitis could be a complication of stapled hemorrhoidopexy with a good response to conservative treatment with suppositories.

A Randomized Trial Comparing Stapled Rectal Mucosectomy Versus Open and Semiclosed Hemorrhoidectomy

BACKGROUND

Different results have been reported concerning the postoperative outcomes of different surgical approaches for hemorrhoids.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the postoperative outcome following 3 main surgical techniques.

DESIGN

A prospective, randomized trial was designed with 180 patients in 3 arms of 60 patients each.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted from April 1999 to January 2007 at the University Hospital "Campus Bio-Medico di Roma."

PATIENTS

All of the patients who were referred for hemorrhoid surgery were enrolled according to inclusion and exclusion criteria (ISRCTN12040297).

INTERVENTIONS

Treatments according to the open, semiclosed, and stapled techniques were compared.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Sample size was calculated to determine a difference in terms of the intensity of postoperative pain at the first week and the days required for return to work activity.

RESULTS

After 1 week, patients who underwent semiclosed hemorrhoidectomy reported significantly less pain (p < 0.01) and a significant decrease in analgesic intake from the third postoperative day (p < 0.01) than after the other 2 techniques. The patients resumed work ≈11 days after semiclosed and stapled techniques (11.8 and 11.6 days), which was earlier compared with 21.3 days in the open group (p < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS

The high number of patients excluded might be considered a limitation of the study, but our selection criteria including patients living within 50 km of the hospital allowed for a low rate (9.4%) of patients lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found an earlier resumption of work and less pain in patients who underwent the stapled and semiclosed procedures rather than open, which was associated with more complications, particularly because of a higher rate of stenosis (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/DCR/A196).

Systematic review and network meta-analysis comparing clinical outcomes and effectiveness of surgical treatments for haemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

The aim was to compare the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of surgical treatments for haemorrhoids.

METHODS

Randomized clinical trials were identified by means of a systematic review. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed using the Markov chain Monte Carlo method in WinBUGS.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight trials were included with 7827 participants and 11 surgical treatments for grade III and IV haemorrhoids. Open, closed and radiofrequency haemorrhoidectomies resulted in significantly more postoperative complications than transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD), LigaSure™ and Harmonic® haemorrhoidectomies. THD had significantly less postoperative bleeding than open and stapled procedures, and resulted in significantly fewer emergency reoperations than open, closed, stapled and LigaSure™ haemorrhoidectomies. Open and closed haemorrhoidectomies resulted in more pain on postoperative day 1 than stapled, THD, LigaSure™ and Harmonic® procedures. After stapled, LigaSure™ and Harmonic® haemorrhoidectomies patients resumed normal daily activities earlier than after open and closed procedures. THD provided the earliest time to first bowel movement. The stapled and THD groups had significantly higher haemorrhoid recurrence rates than the open, closed and LigaSure™ groups. Recurrence of haemorrhoidal symptoms was more common after stapled haemorrhoidectomy than after open and LigaSure™ operations. No significant difference was identified between treatments for anal stenosis, incontinence and perianal skin tags.

CONCLUSION

Open and closed haemorrhoidectomies resulted in more postoperative complications and slower recovery, but fewer haemorrhoid recurrences. THD and stapled haemorrhoidectomies were associated with decreased postoperative pain and faster recovery, but higher recurrence rates. The advantages and disadvantages of each surgical treatment should be discussed with the patient before surgery to allow an informed decision to be made.

Procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids vs traditional surgery for outlet obstructive constipation

AIM: To compare the clinical efficacies of two surgical procedures for hemorrhoid rectal prolapse with outlet obstruction-induced constipation.

METHODS: One hundred eight inpatients who underwent surgery for outlet obstructive constipation caused by internal rectal prolapse and circumferential hemorrhoids at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from June 2012 to June 2013 were prospectively included in the study. The patients with rectal prolapse hemorrhoids with outlet obstruction-induced constipation were randomly divided into two groups to undergo either a procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) (n = 54) or conventional surgery (n = 54; control group). Short-term (operative time, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative urinary retention, postoperative perianal edema, and postoperative pain) and long-term (postoperative anal stenosis, postoperative sensory anal incontinence, postoperative recurrence, and postoperative difficulty in defecation) clinical effects were compared between the two groups. The short- and long-term efficacies of the two procedures were determined.

RESULTS: In terms of short-term clinical effects, operative time and postoperative hospital stay were significantly shorter in the PPH group than in the control group (24.36 ± 5.16 min vs 44.27 ± 6.57 min, 2.1 ± 1.4 d vs 3.6 ± 2.3 d, both P < 0.01). The incidence of postoperative urinary retention was higher in the PPH group than in the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant (48.15% vs 37.04%). The incidence of perianal edema was significantly lower in the PPH group (11.11% vs 42.60%, P < 0.05). The visual analogue scale scores at 24 h after surgery, first defecation, and one week after surgery were significantly lower in the PPH group (2.9 ± 0.9 vs 8.3 ± 1.1, 2.0 ± 0.5 vs 6.5 ± 0.8, and 1.7 ± 0.5 vs 5.0 ± 0.7, respectively, all P < 0.01). With regard to long-term clinical effects, the incidence of anal stenosis was lower in the PPH group than in the control group, but the difference was not significant (1.85% vs 5.56%). The incidence of sensory anal incontinence was significantly lower in the PPH group (3.70% vs 12.96%, P < 0.05). The incidences of recurrent internal rectal prolapse and difficulty in defecation were lower in the PPH group than in the control group, but the differences were not significant (11.11% vs 16.67% and 12.96% vs 24.07%, respectively).

CONCLUSION: PPH is superior to the traditional surgery in the management of outlet obstructive constipation caused by internal rectal prolapse with circumferential hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL) and rectoanal repair (RAR): retrospective analysis of 408 patients in a single center

BACKGROUND

Rectoanal repair (RAR), which combines doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL) and mucopexy via lifting of the hemorrhoidal prolapse, offers a minimally invasive alternative to conventional hemorrhoidectomy.

METHODS

Patients with grade II hemorrhoids were treated with HAL, and patients with grade III and IV hemorrhoids were treated with the RAR procedure by two surgeons. Postoperative follow-up was performed clinically and by proctoscopy after 8 weeks routinely, and long-term follow-up was performed using a standardized postal questionnaire.

RESULTS

The overall complication rate was 29% (n = 118). After short-term follow-up, 26% (n = 106) of patients reported recurrent or persistent prolapsing piles, while 21% (n = 86) of patients had recurrent bleeding. After long-term follow-up, 24% (n = 98) of patients reported prolapsing piles, 3% (n = 12) bleeding, 3% (n = 12) pruritus, and 2% (n = 8) anal pain, while 20% (n = 82) complained of persistent mixed symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

HAL and RAR provide prolonged relief for patients with hemorrhoidal disease whose main symptoms are bleeding, pruritus and pain but not for patients with prolapse as an initial indication.

Short- and long-term results of harmonic scalpel hemorrhoidectomy versus stapler hemorrhoidopexy in treatment of hemorrhoidal disease

PURPOSE

In this prospective randomized study, our aim is to compare the short- and long-term results of harmonic scalpel hemorrhoidectomy (HSH) and stapler hemorrhoidopexy (SH) methods in the surgical treatment of Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoidal disease.

METHODS

Ninety-nine consecutive patients diagnosed with Grade III or Grade IV internal hemorrhoidal disease were included in the study. Patients were randomized to HSH (n = 48) or SH (n = 51) treatments. Data on patient demographic and clinical characteristics, operative details, postoperative pain score on a visual analog scale, additional analgesic requirement, postoperative short- and long-term complications, and recurrence of hemorrhoidal disease were also recorded. Patients were regularly followed for a total period of 24 (6-36) months.

RESULTS

The patient demographic and clinical characteristics were similar in the two groups. The operative time was significantly shorter in the HSH group compared with the SH group. Overall pain scores were not significantly different between the groups, although severe pain was significantly more common in the HSH group. Recurrence was significantly lower in the HSH group compared with the SH group.

CONCLUSION

HSH and SH are both safe and effective methods for surgical treatment of Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoidal disease. In our study, the HSH method was determined to be safer, easier, and faster to perform, and associated with fewer long-term recurrences than the SH method.

Apex technique in the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome associated with rectal intussusception and full rectal mucosa prolapse

BACKGROUND

The aim of the current study was to demonstrate the use of a modified stapling technique, called the apex technique, to treat rectal intussusception and full rectal mucosal prolapse. It was conducted as a retrospective study at 3 centers (2 in Brazil and 1 in Chile).

TECHNIQUE

The apex technique is performed by using a HEM/EEA-33 stapler. A pursestring suture is placed at the apex of the prolapse, on the 4 quadrants, independent of the distance to the dentate line. A second pursestring is then placed to define the band of rectal mucosa to be symmetrically resected.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Outcome measures included width of the resected full-thickness rectal wall; the intensity of postoperative pain on a visual analog scale from 1 to 10; full mucosal prolapse and rectal intussusception assessed by physical examination, cinedefecography, or echodefecography; and change in the constipation scale.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients (30 women/15 men; mean age, 59.5 years) with rectal intussusception and full mucosal prolapse were included. The median operative time was 17 (range, 15-30) minutes. Bleeding after stapler fire requiring manual suture occurred in 3 patients (6.7%); 25 (55.6%) patients reported having no postoperative pain. Hospital stay was 24 hours. The mean width of the resected rectal wall was 5.9 (range, 5.0-7.5) cm. Stricture at the staple line was seen in 4 patients, of whom 1 required dilation under anesthesia. The median follow-up time was 120 (range, 90-120) days. A small residual prolapse was identified in 6 (13.3%) patients. Imaging demonstrated complete disappearance of rectal intussusception in all patients, and the mean postoperative constipation score decreased from 13 (range, 8-15) to 5 (range, 3-7).

CONCLUSIONS

The apex technique appears to be a safe, quickly performed, and low-cost method for the treatment of rectal intussusception. In this series, imaging examinations showed the disappearance of rectal intussusception, and a significant decrease in constipation score suggested improvement in functional outcomes.

Does stapled anopexy for bleeding haemorrhoids cure associated anaemia?

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of stapled anopexy (SA) in patients with chronic bleeding haemorrhoids and secondary anaemia.

METHOD

Our department performed 340 SA procedure per patient for haemorrhoids between January 1999 and December 2011. Fifty (14.7%) of these patients (25 male patients and 25 female patients) had anaemia (haemoglobin concentration < 13 g/dl in male patients and < 12 g/dl in female patients) secondary to chronic haemorrhoidal bleeding. Patients with colorectal bleeding and anaemia not caused by haemorrhoids were excluded. The mean (SD) age was 56.4 (13.9) years and the mean (SD) haemoglobin concentration was 9.2 (1.6) g/dl for male patients and 10.4 (1.2) g/dl for female patients. Five (10%) patients with anaemia had Grade II, 22 (44%) had Grade III and 23 (46%) had Grade IV haemorrhoids. The median (range) duration of postoperative follow-up was six (1-12) years.

RESULTS

None of the patients required early postoperative admission or experienced early or late complications related to SA. The procedure was successful (normal haemoglobin concentration and no bleeding at 6 months postsurgery) in 45 (90%) patients. Of the five (10%) patients in whom SA was ineffective, one had Grade II, three had Grade III and one had Grade IV haemorrhoids. All these patients underwent Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy 3 months after SA.

CONCLUSION

SA is an effective treatment for patients with bleeding haemorrhoids and subsequent anaemia. In our experience, the success rate was satisfactory and there were no serious complications.

Is Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy a Safe Procedure for Third and Fourth Grade Hemorrhoids? An Experience at Civil Hospital Karachi

Hemorrhoids are amongst the most frequent anorectal conditions affecting approximately 4-36 % of the general population. The study was carried out to assess the clinical consequences of stapled hemorrhoidectomy comparing results with other published literature regarding postoperative pain, bleeding, incontinence, and other complications. A total of 120 patients were included in this study with symptomatic grade 3 or 4 prolapsed hemorrhoids, who underwent stapled hemorrhoidectomy from January 2006 to January 2012 at the Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan. In 92 patients (76.6 %), proctological examination showed grade 3 hemorrhoids. Fourth degree hemorrhoids were found in 28 cases (23.4 %). Hospitalization time ranged between 1 and 3 days (median time was 34 h). Seventy-eight patients were discharged on the first postoperative day, without severe pain, and the remaining 42 patients were discharge on the third day. Two cases of postoperative pain and thrombosis were found as postoperative complications. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is a safe and quick procedure associated with less pain, better outcome, and early recovery with shorter hospital stay.

Residual Prolapse in Patients with III-IV Degree Haemorrhoids Undergoing Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy with CPH34 HV: Results of an Italian Multicentric Clinical Study

CPH34 HV, a high volume stapler, was tested in order to assess its safety and efficacy in reducing residual/recurrent haemorrhoids. The clinical charts of 430 patients with third- to fourth-degree haemorrhoids undergoing SH in 2012-2013 were consecutively reviewed, excluding those with obstructed defecation (rectocele >2 cm; Wexner's score >15). Follow-up was scheduled at six and 12 months. Rectal prolapse exceeding more than half of CAD was reported in 341 patients (79.3%); one technical failure was reported (0.2%) without any serious untoward effect; and 1.3 stitch/patient (SD, 1.7) was required to achieve complete haemostasis. Doughnuts volume was higher (13.8 mL; SD, 1.5) in patients with a large rectal prolapse than with smaller one (8.9 mL; SD, 0.7) (P value <0.05). Residual and recurrent haemorrhoids occurred in 8 of 430 patients (1.8%) and 5 of 254 patients (1.9%), respectively. A high index of patient satisfaction (visual analogue scale = 8.9; SD, 0.9) coupled with a persistent reduction of constipation scores (CSS = 5.0, SD, 2.2) was observed. The wider prolapse resection well correlated with a clear-cut reduction of haemorrhoidal relapse, a high index of patient satisfaction, and clinically relevant reduction of constipations scores coupled with satisfactory haemostatic properties of CPH34 HV.

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.