Septic complications after treatment of haemorrhoids

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.

Injection sclerotherapy for the treatment of haemorrhoids in anticoagulated patients

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic haemorrhoids (SH) are a common condition; however, conventional outpatient treatment, including rubber band ligation, is contraindicated in patients receiving concurrent anticoagulation. Injection sclerotherapy (IST) has been proposed as a treatment option for these patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review of case notes was performed in a colorectal surgery department that sits alongside a tertiary cardiothoracic surgical unit. Patients treated with an IST for SH between 1 April 2014 and 30 November 2021 were identified. Anticoagulation was not stopped in these patients as they were at high risk of developing thromboembolism, except in two patients who required alternative procedures. The primary outcome was symptom resolution, defined as no patient reporting bleeding for at least six months. The secondary outcomes were patient-reported complications, number of IST procedures and number of other procedures performed to achieve symptom resolution.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients with a median age of 64 years (range 35-86, 14 male) who underwent 32 IST treatments were identified. Symptom resolution was achieved in 18 (90%) patients using IST while continuing anticoagulation treatment, with two (10%) patients requiring alternative interventions. Ten patients (50%) required only one IST procedure, and three patients (15%) required two procedures. The remaining five (25%) patients required three or four interventions. The median time between IST treatments was 32 weeks (range 8-133). No complications were reported.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that IST can be considered as a potential treatment option for patients with SH who are at a high risk of thromboembolic disease requiring anticoagulation.

Perirectal hematoma after stapled surgery for hemorrhoidal prolapse and obstructed defecation syndrome: case series management to avoid panic-guided treatment

Perirectal hematoma (PH) is one of the most feared complications of stapling procedures. Literature reviews have reported only a few works on PH, most of them describing isolated treatment approaches and severe outcomes. The aim of this study was to analyze a homogenous case series of PH and to define a treatment algorithm for huge postoperative PHs. A retrospective analysis of a prospective database of three high-volume proctology units was performed between 2008 and 2018, and all PH cases were analyzed. In all, 3058 patients underwent stapling procedures for hemorrhoidal disease or obstructed defecation syndrome with internal prolapse. Among these, 14 (0.46%) large PH cases were reported, and 12 of these hematomas were stable and treated conservatively (antibiotics and CT/laboratory test monitoring); most of them were resolved with spontaneous drainage. Two patients with progressive PH (signs of active bleeding and peritonism) were submitted to CT and arteriography to evaluate the source of bleeding, which was subsequently closed by embolization. This approach helped ensure that no patients with PH were referred for major abdominal surgery. Most PH cases are stable and treatable with a conservative approach, evolving with self-drainage. Progressive hematomas are rare and should undergo angiography with embolization to minimize the possibility of major surgery and severe complications.

Transanal Suture Mucopexy for Hemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

Core factors involved in the treatment of hemorrhoids include the engorgement of hemorrhoids, prolapse, recurrence, and pain.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to assess the safety, pain, and efficacy of the transanal suture mucopexy for the treatment of hemorrhoids.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective study over a 13-year period.

SETTING

This procedure was performed, and data collected, from medical records at six centers in India.

PATIENTS

This study includes 5634 patients who had grade II to IV symptomatic hemorrhoids. Patients suffering from thrombosed hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, anal strictures, and anorectal carcinoma were excluded.

INTERVENTIONS

Hemorrhoidal swelling was reduced by manual massage and a steep Trendelenburg position under saddle block. The reduced hemorrhoids were fixed to the muscles of the rectal wall using sutures. Each suture measured 0.5 to 1.0 cm in length; double-locking continuous sutures were used, along the complete circumference of the rectum, at 2 and 4 cm proximal to the dentate line.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Pain assessed using the visual analog scale and hemorrhoid recurrence served as outcome measures.

RESULTS

The transanal suture mucopexy procedure was performed for 5634 patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids. A dull pain compatible with a visual analog score of 2 to 3 was reported in 126 (2.2%) patients; in the remaining 5508 (97.8%) patients, the visual analog score was 1 to 2. Effective treatment without complications occurred for 5541 patients (98.65%). A recurrence rate of 1.3% was recorded in 5634 cases with a mean follow-up of 7 ± 6 years.

LIMITATIONS

Utilization of a self-illuminating proctoscope or Brinckerhoff or anal speculum is essential.

CONCLUSION

Transanal suture mucopexy, designed with 2 suture rows, is a safe procedure with a short learning curve. It is associated with minimal pain, low recurrence rate, and fewer complications. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B841.

MUCOPEXIA TRANSANAL CON SUTURA PARA ENFERMEDAD HEMORROIDAL

ANTECEDENTES:Los factores centrales involucrados en el tratamiento de la enfermedad hemorroidal incluyen congestión de hemorroides, prolapso, recurrencia y dolor.OBJETIVO:Evaluar la seguridad, el dolor y la eficacia de la mucopexia transanal con sutura para el tratamiento de la enfermedad hemorroidal.DISEÑO:Estudio retrospectivo durante un período de 13 años.ESCENARIO:Este procedimiento se realizó y se recopilaron datos de expedientes médicos en seis centros en India.PACIENTES:Este estudio incluye 5634 pacientes con enfermedad hemorroidal sintomática grado II a IV. Se excluyeron pacientes que padecían hemorroides trombosadas, enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal, estenosis anales y carcinoma anorrectal.INTERVENCIONES:La inflamación hemorroidal se redujo mediante masaje manual y posición Trendelenburg profundo bajo bloqueo caudal. Las hemorroides reducidas se fijaron a los músculos de la pared rectal mediante suturas. Cada sutura midió 0.5 a 1.0 cm de longitud, se utilizaron suturas en surgete continuo de doble anclado, a lo largo de la circunferencia completa del recto, a dos y cuatro cm proximales a la línea dentada.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:El dolor se evaluó mediante la escala de puntuación analógica visual y se evaluó la presencia de recurrencia.RESULTADOS:El procedimiento de mucopexia transanal con sutura se realizó en 5634 pacientes con hemorroides sintomáticas. Se informó un dolor sordo compatible con una puntuación analógica visual de 2-3 en 126 (2.2%) pacientes; en los 5508 (97.8%) pacientes restantes, la puntuación analógica visual fue de 1-2. La mayoría (5541 pacientes [98.65%]) tuvo un tratamiento eficaz sin complicaciones. Se registró una tasa de recurrencia del 1.3% en 5634 casos con un seguimiento medio de 7 ± 6 años.LIMITACIONES:La utilización de un proctoscopio autoiluminado o de Brinckerhoff o espéculo anal es esencial.CONCLUSIÓN:La mucopexia transanal con sutura es un procedimiento seguro diseñado con dos filas de suturas asociadas con dolor mínimo y baja tasa de recurrencia con menos complicaciones. Tiene una curva de aprendizaje corta. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B841. (Traducción-Dr. Jorge Silva Velazco).

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome after hemorrhoidectomy: A case report

BACKGROUND

Streptococcal toxic-shock syndrome after hemorrhoidectomy is rare but may be catastrophic. Group A streptococci have produced various surface proteins and exotoxins due to genetic changes to fight the human body’s immune response. Though life threatening infection after hemorrhoidectomy rarely occurs, all surgeons should be aware of the potential complications of severe sepsis after hemorrhoidectomy and keep in mind their clinical presenting features in order to diagnose early and administer appropriate and effective therapeutic drugs early.

CASE SUMMARY

Here, we present a case of a 56-year-old man with a painful thrombotic external hemorrhoid who presented to our outpatient department for management. There was no history of systemic diseases or recent disease infection. Hemorrhoidectomy was suggested and performed. After surgery, the patient developed hypotension, tachycardia, fever with chills and renal function impairment on day 2 post-operation. The clinical condition progressed to severe septic shock and metabolic acidosis. The patient responded poorly to treatment and expired after 1 d even with use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The results of the blood and wound cultures showed group A streptococcus pyogenes.

CONCLUSION

Although extremely uncommon, all surgeons should be aware of these potential life-threatening septic complications and alert to the presenting features for patients receiving hemorrhoidectomy.

Autobiographical Case Report: A Rubber Band, a Glass of Orange Juice

Seemingly simple procedures can go desperately wrong. Physicians are used to "knowing" and "being in charge". When a physician is suddenly the profoundly ill patient, the inversion of roles can be frustrating, frightening, and disorienting. 

Anorectal emergencies: WSES-AAST guidelines

Anorectal emergencies comprise a wide variety of diseases that share common symptoms, i.e., anorectal pain or bleeding and might require immediate management. While most of the underlying conditions do not need inpatient management, some of them could be life-threatening and need prompt recognition and treatment. It is well known that an incorrect diagnosis is frequent for anorectal diseases and that a delayed diagnosis is related to an impaired outcome. This paper aims to improve the knowledge and the awareness on this specific topic and to provide a useful tool for every physician dealing with anorectal emergencies.The present guidelines have been developed according to the GRADE methodology. To create these guidelines, a panel of experts was designed and charged by the boards of the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) to perform a systematic review of the available literature and to provide evidence-based statements with immediate practical application. All the statements were presented and discussed during the WSES-AAST-WJES Consensus Conference on Anorectal Emergencies, and for each statement, a consensus among the WSES-AAST panel of experts was reached. We structured our work into seven main topics to cover the entire management of patients with anorectal emergencies and to provide an up-to-date, easy-to-use tool that can help physicians and surgeons during the decision-making process.

PERSONALIZED APPROACH TO ACUTE PERIANAL VENOUS THROMBOSIS TREATMENT DEPENDING ON CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS

Aim: to investigate the time period and reasons for seeing a doctor of patients with acute thrombosis and to assess treatment satisfaction.

Methods: The main complaints, symptom duration, pain severity and pathological process characteristics of patients with acute perianal venous thrombosis were recorded. The treatment strategy was determined by the doctor and the patient: the surgical thrombosed hemorrhoid removal or conservative treatment with analgesics, venotonics, drugs for stool softening. Pain severity on days 3, 7, 30 and overall satisfactions on day 30 were evaluated.

Results: 62 patients were included. The main symptoms were pain (69.4%) and discomfort (16.1%). During the first 72 hours from the disease onset 21.5% of patients saw a doctor and 66.7% of all patients underwent the surgery, on day 4–7 — 50% saw a doctor and 77% underwent the surgery, > 8 days — 28.5% and 33% respectively. During the appointment pain was 4 points according to VAS, 3 days after surgery — 5.9 points, 4–7 days — 3.9 points, > 8 days — 2.5 points. 64% of patients underwent the surgery with average pain level of 5 points, in the conservative group — of 4.5 points (p = 0.014). On day 30 80.6% of all patients were completely satisfied. Having the pain severity > 4points nobody was satisfied with conservative treatment, while 80% of surgical patients were satisfied.

Conclusion: Considering the symptom duration, pain continuing > 3 days, perianal discomfort ora «bump» the treatment tactics should be accepted by the doctor and the patient together for achieving a high treatment satisfaction.

Still a Case of "No Pain, No Gain"? An Updated and Critical Review of the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management Options for Hemorrhoids in 2020

The treatment of haemorrhoids remains challenging: multiple treatment options supported by heterogeneous evidence are available, but patients rightly demand a tailored approach. Evidence for newer surgical techniques that promise to be less painful has been conflicting. We review the current evidence for management options in patients who present with varying haemorrhoidal grades. A review of the English literature was performed utilizing MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases (31 May 2019). The search terms (haemorrhoid OR haemorrhoid OR haemorrhoids OR haemorrhoids OR “Hemorrhoid”[Mesh]) were used. First- and second-degree haemorrhoids continue to be managed conservatively. The easily repeatable and cost-efficient rubber band ligation is the preferred method to address minor haemorrhoids; long-term outcomes following injection sclerotherapy remain poor. Conventional haemorrhoidectomies (Ferguson/Milligan-Morgan/Ligasure haemorrhoidectomy) still have their role in third- and fourth-degree haemorrhoids, being associated with lowest recurrence; nevertheless, posthaemorrhoidectomy pain is problematic. Stapled haemorrhoidopexy allows quicker recovery, albeit at the costs of higher recurrence rates and potentially serious complications. Transanal Haemorrhoidal Dearterialization has been promoted as nonexcisional and less invasive, but the recent HubBLe trial has questioned its overall place in haemorrhoid management. Novel “walk-in-walk-out” techniques such as radiofrequency ablations or laser treatments will need further evaluation to define their role in modern-day haemorrhoid management. There are numerous treatment options for haemorrhoids, each with their own evidence-base. Newer techniques promise to be less painful, but recurrence rates remain an issue. The balance continues to be sought between long-term efficacy, minimisation of postoperative pain, and preservation of anorectal function.

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.

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.

Rectal perforation secondary to transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialisation

Haemorrhoidal artery ligation has now been established as a treatment modality for symptomatic haemorrhoids. We report a case of a fit 44-year-old male who underwent the procedure as a day case, who subsequently developed pelvic sepsis due to rectal perforation. This case is the first report of a potentially life-threatening complication resulting from this procedure, which has a previously excellent safety profile.

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.

Rubber band ligation of hemorrhoids: A guide for complications

Rubber band ligation is one of the most important, cost-effective and commonly used treatments for internal hemorrhoids. Different technical approaches were developed mainly to improve efficacy and safety. The technique can be employed using an endoscope with forward-view or retroflexion or without an endoscope, using a suction elastic band ligator or a forceps ligator. Single or multiple ligations can be performed in a single session. Local anaesthetic after ligation can also be used to reduce the post-procedure pain. Mild bleeding, pain, vaso-vagal symptoms, slippage of bands, priapism, difficulty in urination, anal fissure, and chronic longitudinal ulcers are normally considered minor complications, more frequently encountered. Massive bleeding, thrombosed hemorrhoids, severe pain, urinary retention needing catheterization, pelvic sepsis and death are uncommon major complications. Mild pain after rubber band ligation is the most common complication with a high frequency in some studies. Secondary bleeding normally occurs 10 to 14 d after banding and patients taking anti-platelet and/or anti-coagulant medication have a higher risk, with some reports of massive life-threatening haemorrhage. Several infectious complications have also been reported including pelvic sepsis, Fournier’s gangrene, liver abscesses, tetanus and bacterial endocarditis. To date, seven deaths due to these infectious complications were described. Early recognition and immediate treatment of complications are fundamental for a favourable prognosis.

Complications Following Anorectal Surgery

Anorectal surgery is well tolerated. Rates of minor complications are relatively high, but major postoperative complications are uncommon. Prompt identification of postoperative complications is necessary to avoid significant patient morbidity. The most common acute complications include bleeding, infection, and urinary retention. Pelvic sepsis, while may result in dramatic morbidity and even mortality, is relatively rare. The most feared long-term complications include fecal incontinence, anal stenosis, and chronic pelvic pain.

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.

The acute management of haemorrhoids

INTRODUCTION

Although the acute thrombosis and strangulation of haemorrhoids is a common condition, there is no consensus as to its most effective treatment.

METHODS

A PubMed search was undertaken for papers describing the aetiology and treatment of the acute complications of haemorrhoids.

RESULTS

The anatomy and treatments for strangulated internal haemorrhoids and thrombosed perianal varices are discussed. Studies of the effectiveness and complications of conservative and operative treatments are reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

Ambiguities exist in the terminology used to describe the two separate pathologies that make up the acute complications of haemorrhoids. These complications have traditionally been treated conservatively. There is evidence that early operative intervention for strangulated internal haemorrhoids is safe and effective. A suggested algorithm for treatment is given, based on the published literature.

Is haemorrhoidectomy in inflammatory bowel disease harmful? An old dogma re-examined

AIM

Haemorrhoidectomy and removal of anal skin tags in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been considered to be potentially harmful, but the evidence for this is poor. A review of the literature was undertaken to determine the complications rate after haemorrhoidectomy in patients with IBD.

METHOD

A Medline, PubMed and Cochrane Library search was performed to retrieve studies reporting the surgical treatment of haemorrhoids in patients with IBD. All studies that investigated the complications of haemorrhoidectomy and skin tag removal in patients with IBD were included. Complications included local sepsis, fissure, ulcer, stenosis, faecal incontinence and the direct need for proctectomy or a stoma.

RESULTS

Eleven retrospective studies including 135 patients were identified. Most series were small and lacked information on the interval between surgery and the onset of complications. The range of complications ranged from 0% to 100%. Taking the studies together, complications occurred more frequently in Crohn's disease (CD) (17.1%) than in ulcerative colitis (UC) (5.5%). The risk of complication was much higher in patients with unknown than in those with known diagnosis of IBD (50% vs 9.8% in CD; 9.1% vs 4% in UC).

CONCLUSION

There is great variation in the incidence of complications reported after haemorrhoidectomy or removal of skin tags in patients with IBD and it is not possible to draw a firm conclusion. Nevertheless the incidence of complications is high in patients with CD.

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.

Prophylactic antibiotics for hemorrhoidectomy: are they really needed?

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhoidectomy is considered by many to be a contaminated operation that requires antibiotic prophylaxis to lower the incidence of surgical site infection. In reality, little evidence exists to either support or refute the use of antibiotic prophylaxis in this setting.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine if antibiotic prophylaxis is associated with reduced incidence of postoperative surgical site infection following hemorrhoidectomy.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective database review.

SETTING

This study was conducted at multiple institutions.

PATIENTS

All patients undergoing hemorrhoidectomy with minimum 3-month follow-up were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was the incidence of postoperative surgical site infection.

RESULTS

Eight hundred fifty-two patients met the inclusion criteria (50.1% female; mean age, 50.0 ± 13.7 years). The prevalence of preoperative risk factors for surgical site infection included 7.7% with a smoking history, 2.5% with diabetes mellitus, 0.8% receiving steroids, and 0.2% with Crohn's disease. Surgery was performed predominately for 3-column prolapsed internal and mixed internal/external hemorrhoidal disease. All surgeries performed were closed hemorrhoidectomies. Antibiotic prophylaxis was used in a fewer number of cases (41.3% vs 58.7%). Overall, there were only 12 documented postoperative infections identified, producing an overall incidence of 1.4%. Of those patients who developed postoperative surgical site infections, 9 (75%) did not receive antibiotic prophylaxis (p = 0.25). On multivariate regression analysis, no perioperative risk factor was associated with an increased risk of developing a posthemorrhoidectomy surgical site infection. Conversely, there were no adverse antibiotic-related complications such as Clostridium difficile colitis or antibiotic-associated diarrhea in those receiving antibiotic prophylaxis.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by the retrospective nature of the analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative surgical site infection is an exceedingly rare event following hemorrhoidectomy. Antibiotic prophylaxis does not reduce the incidence of postoperative surgical site infection, and its routine use appears unnecessary.

Devices for the endoscopic treatment of hemorrhoids

Multiple endoscopic methods are available to treat symptomatic internal hemorrhoids. Because of its low cost, ease of use, low rate of adverse events, and relative effectiveness, RBL is currently the most widely used technique.

Modern management of hemorrhoidal disease

Complaints secondary to hemorrhoidal disease have been treated by health care providers for centuries. Most symptoms referable to hemorrhoidal disease can be managed nonoperatively. When symptoms do not respond to medical therapy, procedural intervention is recommended. Surgical hemorrhoidectomy is usually reserved for patients who are refractory to or unable to tolerate office procedures. This article reviews the pathophysiology of hemorrhoidal disease and the most commonly used techniques for the nonoperative and operative palliation of hemorrhoidal complaints.

Stapled hemorrhoidectomy; results of a prospective clinical trial in saudi arabia

OBJECTIVES

This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of stapled hemorrhoidectomy (SH) in terms of cure of the symptoms and post-operative pain control.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this prospective clinical study, SH (Ethicon Endo-surgery, Cincinnati, OH) was performed for all patients with grade III and grade IV hemorrhoids, presenting to the surgical clinics of Ohud and Meeqat Hospitals Almadinah Almunawwarah Saudi Arabia. The results of SH were evaluated by a questionnaire focusing on the relief of symptoms, severity of post operative pain, and complications of SH.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (21 males and 9 females); with a mean age of 39.6 years were recruited in this study. Twenty six (86%) patients had grade III and 4 (14%) presented with grade IV hemorrhoids. Perianal prolapse was the most frequent presentation reported in 23 (76%). Mean operating time was 21.7 minutes (range; 17-36 minutes) whereas mean hospital stay was 1.9 days. Post-operative pain was tolerable (non-persistent) in 28 (93%) cases whereas 2 (7%) experienced mild pain requiring additional analgesia. Urinary retention was the most common complication found in 5 (16%) patients. All patients were cured of the hemorrhoids Conclusion: SH is a safe, rapid, and convenient surgical remedy for grade III and grade IV hemorrhoids with low rate of complications, minimal postoepative pain, and early discharge from the hospital.

Brain abscess after transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization: a case report

A relatively new therapy in the treatment of hemorrhoids is transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD). We report a case of brain abscess caused by Streptococcus milleri following THD. Although a brain abscess after drainage of a perianal abscess has been described in the literature, no report exists of a brain abscess following treatment of hemorrhoids. A healthy 51-year-old man with hemorrhoids underwent THD. Two weeks later he presented with a headache, bradyphrenia, flattened behavior and a left hemiplegia. No perianal complaint and/or perianal abscess was present. A contrast CT scan of the cerebrum showed a right temporoparieto-occipital abscess, with edema and compression of the surrounding tissue and lateral ventricles. MRI showed an abscess with leakage in the right lateral ventricle. Treatment with dexamethasone and intravenous antibiotics was started. Because of progression of symptoms, 3 weeks later ventriculoscopy was performed and the abscess was drained. Culture of the punctuate showed S. milleri. Because of developing hydrocephalus 3 days after ventriculoscopy, first an external ventricle drain and later a ventriculoperitoneal drain was placed. Hereafter the hemiplegia and cognitive disorders improved. This case report describes a severe complication following treatment of hemorrhoids with THD which until now, to our knowledge, has never been described in the literature.

Transanal Suture Rectopexy for Haemorrhoids: Chivate's Painless Cure for Piles

The aim of the study was to evaluate Chivate's new procedure of transanal suture rectopexy for haemorroids for pain, bleeding, hospital stay, recurrence and complications. During the period between January 2006 and December 2008, the procedure was used for 166 cases symptomatic of grade II, III and IV haemorrhoids, at six different institutes by five different colorectal surgeons. In the series, 92 cases were males and 74 cases were females; average age was 49.5 years; youngest patient was 23 years of age and eldest was of 82 years of age. According to the gradation, II-52 cases, III-86 cases and IV-28 cases were enrolled for the procedure. The piles mass was reduced by head low and manually. The mucosa and submucosa were transfixed to muscle of the rectum by 0.5-1.0 cm long stitches. Similar stitching was continued all along the complete circumference of the rectum, 2 and 4 cm distal to the dentate line. In all cases, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicines were prescribed for 5 days. No pain was noticed in 162 cases; in 4 cases a pain dull in nature was described by the patients. All the 166 cases were discharged after 24 h. Intraoperative bleeding from the suture line was observed in 15 cases, which required temporary compression. On proctoscopy, in 3 cases intra-anal grade I, protrusion of piles cushion without bleeding was noticed. No incontinence, no recurrent bleeding, no frequency of stool, or no tenusmus was observed. In 2 cases, 6 months after operation, residual external piles were observed, which required excision. The procedure requires no special costly instruments or any disposables. Patients require short stay for 24 h. The procedure is a painless cure for haemorrhoids.

Bipolar radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy of haemorrhoids: a new minimally invasive method for haemorrhoidal disease treatment. Early results of a pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Haemorrhoidal disease is the most frequent benign anorectal disease. Conservative, minimally invasive and surgical methods are used in the treatment of haemorrhoidal disease. Radiofrequency thermoablation is a popular new technique in the treatment of varicose veins.

AIM

Assessment of the use of the method in the treatment of haemorrhoidal disease using bipolar radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy (RFITT or so-called Celon method).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We used the CelonLab PRECISION (Celon AG medical instruments, Teltow, Germany) with the bipolar RFITT applicator Celon ProBREATH for the treatment of haemorrhoidal disease stages III and IV.

RESULTS

In the Department of Surgery at the Atlas Hospital in Zlin, Czech Republic, a total of 71 patients were treated from 9/2007 to 10/2010 with this new treatment approach. The success rate was 100%, local recurrence rate was 2.8%, and medium-term satisfaction of patients who underwent the procedure was 99.5%. Complications appeared in 4.26% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The new RFITTH technique for treatment of advanced stages of haemorrhoidal disease is a new treatment modality with good curative response, low level of complications, minimum pain and quick return of patients to their usual activities.

Hemorrhoids: From basic pathophysiology to clinical management

This review discusses the pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors, classification, clinical evaluation, and current non-operative and operative treatment of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are defined as the symptomatic enlargement and distal displacement of the normal anal cushions. The most common symptom of hemorrhoids is rectal bleeding associated with bowel movement. The abnormal dilatation and distortion of the vascular channel, together with destructive changes in the supporting connective tissue within the anal cushion, is a paramount finding of hemorrhoids. It appears that the dysregulation of the vascular tone and vascular hyperplasia might play an important role in hemorrhoidal development, and could be a potential target for medical treatment. In most instances, hemorrhoids are treated conservatively, using many methods such as lifestyle modification, fiber supplement, suppository-delivered anti-inflammatory drugs, and administration of venotonic drugs. Non-operative approaches include sclerotherapy and, preferably, rubber band ligation. An operation is indicated when non-operative approaches have failed or complications have occurred. Several surgical approaches for treating hemorrhoids have been introduced including hemorrhoidectomy and stapled hemorrhoidopexy, but postoperative pain is invariable. Some of the surgical treatments potentially cause appreciable morbidity such as anal stricture and incontinence. The applications and outcomes of each treatment are thoroughly discussed.

[Outpatient treatments of haemorrhoidal disease]

Only three non-surgical treatments of haemorrhoids are clearly validated: infrared coagulation, injection sclerotherapy and rubber band ligation. Those procedures are only indicated for painless symptoms related to internal haemorrhoids, i.e. bleeding at defecation or spontaneously reducible prolapse. Their main interest is to be possible on the outpatient clinic, with a simple anuscope, without enema or anaesthesia, since they are applied to non-sensitive area on the top of internal haemorrhoids. The aim of all these treatments is to create local fibrosis, which reduces vascular tissue and hold rectal mucosa to underlying muscle. Short-dated efficiency of all techniques is similar on bleeding. After one and three years, rubber band ligation is clearly more efficient than other techniques, especially on prolapse. Secondary effects are non-constant and usually minor, as transient pain or tenesmus, and mild bleeding for few days. Infrequent complications may occur, only after haemorrhoidal banding and sclerotherapy, as thrombosis, massive delayed bleeding or local abscess. Exceptional life-threatening pelvic cellulitis cases have been reported.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are normal vascular structures underlying the distal rectal mucosa and anoderm. Symptomatic hemorrhoidal tissues located above the dentate line are referred to as internal hemorrhoids and produce bleeding and prolapse. Thrombosis in external hemorrhoids results in painful swelling. Symptomatic internal hemorrhoids that fail bowel management programs may be amenable to in-office treatment with rubber band ligation or infrared coagulation. Internal hemorrhoids that fail to respond to these measures or complex internal and external hemorrhoidal disease may require a surgical hemorrhoidectomy, either open or closed. A stapled hemorrhoidopexy treats symptomatic internal hemorrhoids and should be employed with care and only after thorough training of the surgeon because of the risk of rare, severe complications. The choice of procedure should be based on the patient's symptoms, the extent of the hemorrhoidal disease, and the experience of the surgeon.

The squelching hip: a sign of life-threatening sepsis following haemorrhoidectomy

We report a case of fulminating infection tracking from the left ischiorectal fossa to the popliteal fossa as a consequence of rectal perforation 11 days following traditional Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy. The case presented as a loud squelching noise coming from the hip on walking. Extensive cellulitis was evident over the posterior aspect of the thigh, with a deep fluctuant collection in the left buttock that communicated with the posterior compartment of the thigh. Per rectal examination revealed a defect in the rectal wall, with a foul-smelling discharge. Extensive thigh incision and drainage, defunctioning colostomy, multiple washouts, and split skin grafting procedures were performed. The patient has now recovered.

Endoscopic hemorrhoidal sclerotherapy using 50% dextrose water: a preliminary report

Injection sclerotherapy has a prominent role in the treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids. The commonly used sclerosants are not available or very expensive in Nigeria. We prospectively evaluated 50% dextrose water, used as a nonallergenic sclerosant, in the treatment of bleeding internal hemorrhoids. Forty consenting adult patients (median age 50 years [range 35-67]; 22 women) with bleeding hemorrhoids, seen over a 2-year period, were offered injection sclerotherapy with 50% dextrose water. They were assessed for response, tolerance and complications. The duration of symptoms before presentation was 3 months to 15 years. The bleeding stopped after the injection in all patients. No patient needed a repeat procedure. No complication was recorded during follow up which ranged from 2 months to 12 months. We conclude that endoscopic hemorrhoidal sclerotherapy using 50% dextrose water offers a simple, safe and effective modality of treatment if properly utilized.

Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation: long-term outcome and patient satisfaction

OBJECTIVE

Conventional Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy is associated with significant pain and potentially hazardous complications. Doppler-Guided Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (DGHAL) may offer a lower risk, pain-free alternative. We present our early and long-term outcome experience with DGHAL, combined with patient views and satisfaction with the procedure.

METHOD

One hundred and thirteen DGHALs were performed over a 13 month period by two surgeons in a single centre. Patients graded the severity of postoperative pain on visual-analogue scales. Clinical follow-up was at 6 weeks (n = 103), with long-term follow-up (n = 90) by postal questionnaire at median of 30 months.

RESULTS

Seven out of one hundred and three (6%) patients reported postoperative discomfort requiring analgesia. Ninety-three out of one hundred and three (90%) patients reported complete relief or significant improvement in their symptoms at 6 weeks, dropping to 77/90 (86%) at 30 months. Anal fissures developed in 2/103 (2%) patients, both treated with Diltiazem ointment. Further surgery was required in 8/90 (9%) patients. Eighty-two out of ninety (91%) patients said they would undergo DGHAL again.

CONCLUSION

DGHAL is a relatively painless, safe, and effective procedure for symptomatic stage I-III haemorrhoids, for which we have demonstrated long-term durability and acceptability. Its role lies between office based procedures and more invasive operative interventions.

Hemorrhoids and fissure in ano

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common benign anorectal conditions that form a significant part of a colorectal surgeon's workload. This review summarizes and evaluates the current techniques available in their management.

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: a technique for applying the crucial purse string suture (MAMC Technique)

BACKGROUND

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy for prolapsing hemorrhoids has been found to be associated with lesser postoperative pain and consequently earlier mobilization and return to work, in comparison to conventional hemorrhoidectomy. Purse string application remains a crucial step to ensure adequate lifting of the anal mucosa and this step is technically tedious in the presence of large hemorrhoids obscuring the vision using the standard purse string applicator. The proposed method in our technique makes this crucial step more reliable, easier, and safe in the hands of the beginner and the experienced surgeon alike.

METHODS

Thirty healthy adults (21 males and 9 females) with grade 3 or 4 hemorrhoids underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy at a large university referral hospital in New Delhi. Purse string application was the first step in the entire procedure even before the application of the circular anal dilator. The purse string was applied using authors' method herein after referred to as Maulana Azad Medical College "(MAMC) technique" after the name of the institution. Rest of the procedure was completed as described by Longo et al.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 26 minutes (range 16 to 40 min). The mean visual analog scale (VAS) pain score on day 1 was 1.6 (range 0 to 3). The mean hospital stay was 1.1 days (range 1 to 2 d). There was no major intraoperative complication and one case each of postoperative urinary retention and residual hemorrhoid, there was no recurrence, anal stenosis, or anal incontinence after a mean follow up of 15 months (range 3 to 24 mo).

CONCLUSIONS

The procedure described is safe, easy to learn, and technically sound, enabling the application of the crucial purse string at the desired distance from the dentate line, in the correct submucosal plane with closely placed bites and at the same transverse level.

Pylephlebitis and pyogenic liver abscesses: a complication of hemorrhoidal banding

Hemorrhoidal banding is a well-established and safe outpatient procedure. Septic complications of hemorrhoidal banding are rare but can be fatal. The first case of pylephlebitis (septic portal vein thrombosis) and pyogenic liver abscess following hemorrhoidal banding in a 49-year-old man with diabetes is reported in the present study. Risk factors, management and the role of prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients are discussed. Caution against hemorrhoidal banding in immunosuppressed patients, including patients with diabetes, is warranted.

[The surgical treatment of hemorrhoids]

Surgery is the most effective treatment in patients with symptomatic grade III-IV hemorrhoids who have not responded to outpatient treatment, when there is associated abnormalities (anal fissure, anal fistula, skin tags) and in thrombosed hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidectomy is currently the "gold standard" treatment. Randomized controlled trials comparing open with closed hemorrhoidectomy show no significant differences in pain scores. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy produces less postoperative pain than hemorrhoidectomy but is less effective in terms of symptom control. No treatment is superior to others in reducing postoperative pain except the use of drugs and anesthetic techniques. In patients with prolapsed internal hemorrhoids and thrombosed hemorrhoids, treatment may initially consist of an urgent hemorrhoidectomy with the same results as those obtained with elective surgery.