Stapled transanal rectal resection versus stapled anopexy in the cure of hemorrhoids associated with rectal prolapse. A randomized 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.

Indications, Feasibility, and Safety of TST STARR Plus Stapler for Degree III Hemorrhoids: A Retrospective Study of 125 Hemorrhoids Patients

Background

Stapler hemorrhoidopexy (SH) has been widely accepted for hemorrhoids patients because of its low postoperative pain, but it is also associated with a high recurrence rate. The recurrence might be due to failure to completely remove the prolapsed tissue or insufficient removal capacity of the instruments. Removing more prolapsed tissue to reduce the recurrence is believed to benefit more severe prolapsed hemorrhoids patients.

Methods

We evaluated the short- and long-term safety and efficacy in 125 hemorrhoids patients who underwent SH in 2013–2015. Eighty patients had prolapsed tissue less than half of the circular anal dilator (CAD) and underwent a procedure for prolapsing hemorrhoids (PPH), while the remaining 45 patients with hemorrhoid prolapse greater than half of the CAD were treated with a tissue selection therapy stapler stapled transanal rectal resection plus (TST STARR+).

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of operative time, hospitalization time, overall satisfaction or complications. At follow-up of up to 4 years after surgery, there was no significant difference in recurrence rates between TST STARR+ group and PPH group (5.2% vs. 4.7%, p < 0.05). The mean width and volume of the resected tissues were significantly larger in the TST STARR+ group than in the PPH group (4.8 vs. 2.9 cm, 10.2 vs. 4.4 cm³, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The TST STARR+ procedure can remove more hemorrhoidal tissue than PPH and it is better suited for patients with severe annular prolapsed hemorrhoids greater than half of the CAD. It has the advantages of convenient to operate, rapid recovery, fewer complications, and long-term satisfactory results.

Tissue selecting technique mega-window stapler combined with anal canal epithelial preservation operation for the treatment of severe prolapsed hemorrhoids: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the most common and frequently occurring benign anorectal disorders, presented with bleeding and prolapsed, and surgery is the main and effective method for severe prolapsed hemorrhoids. Yet, the recurrence rate after procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) is significantly higher. To reduce the recurrence rate and protect the anus function, we try to carry out a randomized, controlled, prospective study to compare the efficacy and recurrence rate of tissue selecting technique (TST) with mega-window stapler (TST-MS) combined with anal canal epithelial preservation operation and PPH combined with external hemorrhoidectomy and inferior internal hemorrhoid ligation operation for the treatment of severe prolapsed hemorrhoids.

METHODS

This study is a single-center, evaluator-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Participants meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria in this RCT will be randomly divided into treatment group (TST-MS combined with anal canal epithelial preservation operation group) and control group (PPH combined with external hemorrhoidectomy and inferior internal hemorrhoid ligation operation) in a 1:1 ratio according to a computer-generated randomization list. The outcomes of recurrence, anal function, intraoperative variables, and postoperative complications will be recorded at different follow-ups.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the study will help to explore the efficacy and recurrence rate of TST-MS combined with anal canal epithelial preservation operation on the treatment of severe prolapsed hemorrhoids.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study protocol was registered in open science framework (OSF). (Registration number: DOI 10.17605 / OSF.IO / 4JYNF).

Improvement in Hemorrhoidal Disease Surgery Outcomes Using a New Anatomical/Clinical-Therapeutic Classification (A/CTC)

Introduction  The introduction and diffusion of new techniques for hemorrhoidal surgery have made it clear how much Goligher classification is inadequate in the modern times, lacking in any correlation between anatomical and clinical features to a surgical procedure. The aim of the study was to evaluate if the application of a new classification of hemorrhoidal diseases might lead to an improvement in the postoperative surgical outcomes.

Methods  From January 2014 to December 2015, all patients undergoing surgery for hemorrhoidal disease were enrolled. The procedures performed were based upon a new anatomical/clinical–therapeutic classification (A/CTC) considering these items: anatomical presentation, symptom types and frequency, associated diseases, and available surgical treatments and their related contraindications. The new classification identified four groups: A (outpatient), B, C, and D (surgical approaches). The overall outcomes were assessed and then stratified by surgical groups. These data were then analyzed in comparison with the published data about all the surgical procedures performed.

Results  A total of 381 patients underwent surgery and they were stratified as follows: Group B (39), C (202), and D (140). Group B underwent Doppler-guided dearterialization with mucopexies or tissue selective therapy, Group C stapled procedures, and Group D hemorrhoidectomy. The mean follow-up was 30 months. The overall outcomes were: success rate 92.4%, recurrences 7.6%, postoperative complications 4.8%, long-term complications 5.4%, and reoperation rate 2.7%. The success rates stratified by groups were: B, 85%); C, 91.4%; and D, 95.7%.

Conclusion  The A/CTC proved to be useful in stratifying the patients and choosing the proper treatment for each case. This classification seems to improve the outcome of different surgical procedures if compared with those already published.

European Society of ColoProctology: guideline for haemorrhoidal disease

AIM

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Partial Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy Versus Circumferential Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy for Grade III to IV Prolapsing Hemorrhoids: A Randomized, Noninferiority Trial

BACKGROUND

Long-term outcomes and efficacy of partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy are not known.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term clinical efficacy and safety of partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy with circumferential stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

DESIGN

This was a parallel group, randomized, noninferiority clinical trial.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at a single academic center.

PATIENTS

Patients with grade III/IV hemorrhoids between August 2011 and November 2013 were included.

INTERVENTIONS

Three hundred patients were randomly assigned to undergo either partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy (group 1, n = 150) or circumferential stapled hemorrhoidopexy (group 2, n = 150).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the rate of recurrent prolapse at a median follow-up period of 5 years with a predefined noninferiority margin of 3.75%. Secondary outcomes included incidence and severity of postoperative pain, fecal urgency, anal continence, and the frequency of specific complications, including anorectal stenosis and rectovaginal fistula.

RESULTS

The visual analog scores in group 1 were less than those in group 2 (p < 0.001). Fewer patients in group 1 experienced postoperative urgency compared with those in group 2 (p = 0.001). Anal continence significantly worsened after both procedures, but the difference between preoperative and postoperative continence scores was higher for group 2 than for group 1. Postoperative rectal stenosis did not develop in patients in group 1, although it occurred in 8 patients (5%) in group 2 (p = 0.004). The 5-year cumulative recurrence rate between group 1 (9% (95% CI, 4%-13%)) and group 2 (12% (95% CI, 7%-17%)) did not differ significantly (p = 0.137), and the difference was within the noninferiority margin (absolute difference, -3.33% (95% CI, -10.00% to 3.55%)).

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited because it was a single-center trial.

CONCLUSIONS

Partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy is noninferior to circumferential stapled hemorrhoidopexy for patients with grade III to IV hemorrhoids at a median follow-up period of 5 years. However, partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy was associated with reduced postoperative pain and urgency, better postoperative anal continence, and minimal risk of rectal stenosis. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A790.Trial registration (chictr.org) identifier is chiCTR-trc-11001506.

Does a more extensive mucosal excision prevent haemorrhoidal recurrence after stapled haemorrhoidopexy? Long-term outcome of a randomized controlled trial

AIM

The study aimed in a multicentric randomized controlled trial to define the role of a more extensive mucosal resection on recurrence of mucosal prolapse in patients with Stage III haemorrhoids undergoing stapled haemorrhoidopexy.

METHOD

In all, 135 patients were randomized to treatment with a PPH-01/03 (Ethicon EndoSurgery) or an EEA (Covidien) stapler. They were reviewed after a minimum follow-up of 4 years to determine the rate of recurrent mucosal prolapse and general condition (wellness evaluation score). Postoperative bowel dysfunction was assessed using the Rome III criteria.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven (65%) of the 135 patients (48 in the EEA stapler group and 37 in the PPH group) were available for long-term follow-up. The two groups were comparable for age, gender and duration of follow-up (mean 49.3 ± 5.4 months and 49.0 ± 5.3 months respectively). In the EEA group, 11 (23%) patients had some degree of recurrent prolapse compared with 12 (32%) in the PPH group (P = 0.409). Persistence of anal bleeding was significantly higher in the PPH group (P = 0.04) while the postoperative Haemorrhoid Symptom Score was significantly better in the EEA group (1.73 ± 1.65 vs 3.17 ± 1.94, P < 0.001). The wellness evaluation score was significantly better in the EEA group (1.2 ± 1.27 vs 0.6 ± 1.0, P = 0.028). Furthermore, 7 (15%) of the patients in the EEA group complained of some evacuation disturbance compared with 13 (36%) in the PPH group (P = 0.021).

CONCLUSION

The study failed to demonstrate any significant difference in the long-term recurrence rate of Stage III haemorrhoids using EEA or PPH. Nevertheless, use of the larger volume EEA provides better symptom resolution compared with PPH.

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.

High-grade hemorrhoids requiring surgical treatment are common after laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy

Purpose

To describe patients developing grade III and IV hemorrhoids requiring surgery after laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) and to explore the relationship between developing such hemorrhoids and recurrence of rectal prolapse after LVMR.

Methods

All consecutive patients receiving LVMR at the Meander Medical Centre, Amersfoort, the Netherlands, between 2004 and 2013 were analyzed. Kaplan–Meier estimates were calculated for recurrences.

Results

A total of 420 patients underwent LVMR. Sixty-five of these patients (actuarial 5-year incidence 24.3, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 18.6–30.0) developed symptomatic grade III/IV hemorrhoids requiring stapled or excisional hemorrhoidectomy. Re-do surgery for recurrent grade III/IV hemorrhoids was required for 15 of the 65 patients (actuarial 5-year recurrence rate 40.6, 95 % CI 23.2–58.0) after the primary hemorrhoidectomy. Three of the 65 patients developed an external rectal prolapse (ERP) recurrence and eight an internal rectal prolapse (IRP) recurrence. This generated a 5-year recurrence rate of 25.3 % (95 % CI 0–53.9) for ERP recurrence and 24.4 % (95 % CI 9.1–39.7) for IRP recurrence. The rest of the LVMR cohort not receiving additional surgery for hemorrhoids (n = 355) showed significantly lower actuarial 5-year ERP (0.8 %, p = 0.011) and IRP (11 %, p = 0.020) recurrence rates.

Conclusion

High-grade hemorrhoids requiring surgery may be common after LVMR. The development of high-grade hemorrhoids after LVMR might be considered a predictor of rectal prolapse recurrence.

Management of obstructed defecation

The management of obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is mainly conservative and mainly consists of fiber diet, bulking laxatives, rectal irrigation or hydrocolontherapy, biofeedback, transanal electrostimulation, yoga and psychotherapy. According to our experience, nearly 20% of the patients need surgical treatment. If we consider ODS an “iceberg syndrome”, with “emerging rocks”, rectocele and rectal internal mucosal prolapse, that may benefit from surgery, at least two out of ten patients also has “underwater rocks” or occult disorders, such as anismus, rectal hyposensation and anxiety/depression, which mostly require conservative treatment. Rectal prolapse excision or obliterative suture, rectocele and/or enterocele repair, retrograde Malone’s enema and partial myotomy of the puborectalis muscle are effective in selected cases. Laparoscopic ventral sacral colporectopexy may be an effective surgical option. Stapled transanal rectal resection may lead to severe complications. The Transtar procedure seems to be safer, when dealing with recto-rectal intussusception. A multidisciplinary approach to ODS provides the best results.

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy in male patients with internal or external rectal prolapse

AIM

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) has been used to treat rectal prolapse, obstructed defaecation (OD), faecal incontinence (FI) and multicompartment pelvic floor dysfunction. Its value in treating men has been questioned. The aim of the present study was to assess the results in male patients.

METHOD

A password-protected electronic database of all LVMRs carried out in North Bristol NHS trust & Spire hospital between 2002 and 2013 was examined. In addition to the clinical outcome, quality of life (QoL), Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS), obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) score, visual analogue score (VAS) for the severity of bowel and urinary symptoms and the numerical rating scale (NRS) for pain and patient-reported outcome measures were evaluated.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight men of median age 35 years and body mass index 26 kg/m(2) underwent LVMR for external rectal prolapse (18) or Grade III-V rectal intussusception (50) presenting with OD, FI and pelvic pain. Ten per cent had been labelled 'chronic idiopathic pelvic pain' and 60% had undergone previous haemorrhoidal surgery. Complications were minor and included urinary retention (10%). Eighty per cent of patients had an uncomplicated recovery with 24% being treated as day cases. There were no cases of impotence or retrograde ejaculation. Median follow-up was 42 (IQR 26-61) months. CCIS score improved from 4 (IQR 0-8) to 0 (IQR 0-0) (P < 0.001) and the ODS score from 18.5 (IQR 16-22) to 6 (IQR 5-8) (P < 0.001). Patients reported significant improvement in the NRS for pain and QoL (BBSQ-22) at 3 months (P = 0.000). The QoL and the VAS for bowel symptoms were maintained at 4 years. At the last follow-up 56 (82%) patients were asymptomatic and 6 (8.8%) had persisting symptoms. There was no case of recurrent external rectal prolapse.

CONCLUSION

LVMR is an effective treatment for external and symptomatic internal rectal prolapse in men, leading to significant improvement in QoL and function.

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.

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.

Tailored prolapse surgery for the treatment of haemorrhoids and obstructed defecation syndrome with a new dedicated device: TST STARR Plus

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess the safety, efficacy and feasibility of stapled transanal procedures performed by a new dedicated device, TST STARR Plus, for tailored transanal stapled surgery.

METHODS

All the consecutive patients admitted to eight referral centres affected by prolapses with III-IV degrees haemorrhoids or obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) with rectocele and/or rectal intussusception that underwent stapled transanal resection with TST STARR plus were included in the present study. Haemostatic stitches for bleeding of the suture line, specimen volume, operative time, hospital stay and perioperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

From 1 November 2012 to 31 March 2013, 160 consecutive patients (96 females) were enrolled in the study. In 94 patients, the prolapse was over the half of the circular anal dilator (CAD). The mean duration of the procedure was 25 min. The mean resected volume of the specimen was 13.3 cm(3), the mean hospital stay was 2.2 days. In 88 patients (55%), additional stitches on the suture line were needed (mean 2.1). Suture line dehiscence was reported in four cases, with intraoperative reinforcement. Bleeding was reported in seven patients (5%). Urgency after 30 days was reported in one patient. No major complication occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

The new device seems to be safe and effective for a tailored approach to anorectal prolapse due to haemorrhoids or obstructed defecation.

Does the removal of retained staples really improve postoperative chronic sequelae after transanal stapled operations?

BACKGROUND

Transanal stapled procedures are increasingly being used. Several postoperative complications can be referred to their application, including those related to the presence of retained staples at the level of the staple line.

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to assess whether the removal of the retained staples is a useful approach to improve some of the most common postoperative complications of these surgical techniques.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective study.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at the One-Day Surgery Unit of St. Andrea Hospital.

PATIENTS

All of the patients who underwent a stapled transanal procedure from January 2003 to December 2011 were included in the study. Patients included in the study were followed postoperatively for 1 year after surgery to identify the presence of retained staples.

INTERVENTIONS

If identified, the retained staples were removed endoscopically or transanally.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

After the staple removal, patients were followed with biweekly office visit for 2 months to evaluate the progression of symptoms.

RESULTS

From the 566 patients included in the study, 165 experienced postoperative complications, and in 66 of these cases, retained staples were found and removed. With the removal of retained staples, symptoms were almost all resolved or improved. In only 1 case did the retained staples removal not modify the symptoms.

LIMITATIONS

The study design may have introduced potential selection bias. In addition, the study was limited by the lack of a specific questionnaire for the evaluation of symptoms improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The removal of the retained staples is an efficacious and safe procedure to solve or improve postoperative complications and should be always considered.

Stapled anopexy and STARR in surgical treatment of haemorrhoidal disease

The treatment of hemorrhoidal disease using stapled anopexy (SA) is still burdened by a high incidence of recurrence. Probably this condition is secondary to inadequate removal of the prolapsed tissue due to the reduced capacity of resection from the adopted device. In order to limit the incidence of failures by providing a removal of a greater amount of prolapsed tissue was considered the opportunity to use the STARR technique even in the presence of haemorrhoidal disease not burdened by symptoms of obstructed defecation. We evaluated the early and at a distance results of 285 patients who had undergone in 2007-2011 surgical resection with trans-anal circular stapler for symptomatic III-IV degree haemorrhoids without obstructed defecation disorders. 237 patients were subjected to SA, while in the remaining 48, since on intervention prolapse committed the CAD more than half of the device, we performed a STARR. adopted the Chi square test (C) considering significant p-values less than 0.05. The anamnestic preoperative evaluation allowed to put the correct indication for surgical treatment in 80% of patients. Mean operative times, hospital stay, incidence of early and more important complications, the symptomatic recurrence of disease (5%) were not dissimilar in the two groups under consideration. Conversely (p < 0.05) the relief of residual asymptomatic disease (24 vs. 10%) was significant . The overall satisfaction was significantly higher in the ST group (73.5 vs 58.6%). The STARR in case of massive prolapse who express themselves with only haemorrhoidal disease is a safe technique, able to optimize the long-term effectiveness of trans-anal resection surgery, limiting the incidence of symptomatic recurrences. The information offered to the patient at the time of the consent to surgery must be extensive and detailed, always considering the possibility of adopting the two techniques alternately and that, at completion of the intervention, could be necessary also the removal of persistent skin tags.

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.

Conservative and surgical treatment of haemorrhoids

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

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy versus Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy in circumferential third-degree hemorrhoids: long-term results of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The literature indicates higher recurrence rates for stapled hemorrhoidopexy than for conventional techniques. This could be due to inappropriate patient selection.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the short- and long-term outcome after stapled hemorrhoidopexy compared with the Milligan-Morgan procedure in a homogeneous patient population with circumferential third-degree hemorrhoids.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

One hundred thirty patients were enrolled into a randomized controlled study, of which 122 were clinically evaluated at weeks 1, 2, and 4, and thereafter each year for a minimum of 3 years. Patients completed a questionnaire for symptoms, function, and pain. Pain was assessed using a visual analog scale. Recurrences were determined by anoscopy and self-report.

SETTINGS

The study was performed at the University Hospital Hamburg.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Endpoints were pain, recurrence, bleeding, itching/burning, urinary retention, incontinence symptoms, and prolonged rate of wound healing.

RESULTS

The cumulative recurrence rates after 5 years were 18 % (n = 11) in the stapled hemorrhoidopexy group and 23 % (n = 14) in the Milligan-Morgan group (p = 0.65). Patients who underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy had significantly less postoperative pain with mean VAS scores at week 1: 3.1 vs. 6.2; week 2: 0.5 vs. 3; week 4: 0.05 vs. 0.6 (p < 0.001), and demonstrated less burning/itching sensation 4 weeks after surgery compared with the Milligan-Morgan group (4.9 vs. 19.7 %; p < 0.001). The postoperative bleeding rate was 4.9 % in both groups and the rate of urinary retention did not differ significantly (4.9 % vs. 1.6 %; p = 0.309). Postoperative incontinence symptoms (6.6 % versus 3.3 %; p = 0.40) resolved within the first 6 months.

LIMITATIONS

Detailed measurement of incontinence was not possible because postoperative symptoms resolved between consultations, and pathological results were examined retrospectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show a similar rate of recurrence in the long term and suggest increased patient comfort in the early postoperative course after stapled hemorrhoidopexy. In patients with circumferential third-degree hemorrhoids, stapled hemorrhoidopexy is as effective as the Milligan-Morgan procedure.

Safety and short-term effectiveness of EEA stapler vs PPH stapler in the treatment of degree III haemorrhoids: prospective randomized controlled trial

AIM

Stapled haemorrhoidopexy has gained wide acceptance due to less postoperative pain although postoperative bleeding and prolapse recurrence are among the major drawbacks of this technique compared with the standard Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy. The aim was to investigate a new stapler device designed to overcome these side effects.

METHOD

In all, 135 patients (71 men, mean age 42 years) with degree III haemorrhoids were randomly allotted to stapled haemorrhoidopexy with PPH® staplers (Ethicon EndoSurgery) (63 patients) or with an EEA® stapler (Covidien) (72 patients) in four referral colorectal centres. The number of haemostatic overstitches apposed on the stapled suture, the area of the resected mucosa (in square centimetres) and any postoperative bleeding within 30 days were recorded.

RESULTS

The mean area of the resected mucosa was significantly wider in EEA than PPH patients (35.75 ± 17.51 vs 28.05 ± 10.23 cm(2), P = 0.002). The median number of haemostatic stitches apposed in the EEA group was significantly lower than in the PPH groups (median value 1, vs 3, interquartile range 0-2, vs 2-5, P < 0.0001). Intraoperative haemostasis was better in the EEA group compared with the PPH01 and PPH03 groups. Postoperative bleeding occurred only in two PPH patients.

CONCLUSION

Data suggest that the EEA stapler has better haemostatic properties than the PPH stapler and allows resection of a larger area of mucosal prolapse with potential benefits over the recurrence rate of haemorrhoid prolapse.

Double PPH technique for hemorrhoidal prolapse: a multicentric, prospective, and nonrandomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Longo's technique (or PPH technique) is well known worldwide. Meta-analysis suggests that the failure due to persistence or recurrence is close to 7.7%. One of the reasons for the recurrence is the treatment of the advanced hemorrhoidal prolapse with a single stapling device, which is not enough to resect the appropriate amount of prolapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We describe the application of "Double PPH Technique" (D-PPH) to treat large hemorrhoidal prolapses. We performed a multicentric, prospective, and nonrandomized trial from July 2008 to July 2009, wherein 2 groups of patients with prolapse and hemorrhoids were treated with a single PPH or a D-PPH. Results were compared. The primary outcome was evaluation of safety and efficacy of the D-PPH procedure in selected patients with large hemorrhoidal prolapse.

RESULTS

In all, 281 consecutive patients suffering from hemorrhoidal prolapse underwent surgery, of whom 74 were assigned intraoperatively to D-PPH, whereas 207 underwent single PPH. Postoperative complications were 5% in both groups (P = .32), in particular: postoperative major bleeding 3.0% in PPH versus 4.1% D-PPH (P = .59); pain 37.9 % PPH versus 27.3% D-PPH (mean visual analog scale [VAS] = 2.5 vs 2.9, respectively; P = .72); and fecal urgency 2.1% PPH versus 5.7% D-PPH (P = .8). Persistence of hemorrhoidal prolapse at 12-month follow-up was 3.7% in the PPH group versus 5.9% in the D-PPH group (P = .5).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data support the hypothesis that an accurate intraoperative patient selection for single (PPH) or double (D-PPH) stapled technique will lower in a significant way the incidence of recurrence after Longo's procedure for hemorrhoidal prolapse.

Double stapled haemorrhoidopexy for haemorrhoidal prolapse: indications, feasibility and safety

AIM

Selected patients with haemorrhoidal prolapse undergoing double stapled anopexy with the procedure for prolapse and haemorrhoids (PPH03) were studied.

METHOD

Between March 2007 and March 2010, 235 patients referred with haemorrhoids were included in the study. Patients with obstructed defaecation were excluded. At surgery intraoperative evaluation for double stapled anopexy was carried out based on the criteria of prolapse occupying half or more of the anal circumference and redundant prolapsed tissue determined by the circular anal dilator. Patients fulfilling these criteria were submitted for double stapled anopexy with the PPH03 stapler. All clinical and operative data were recorded in a prospectively maintained database.

RESULTS

Among the 142 patients with haemorrhoidal prolapse having surgery 91 had a single and 51 a double stapled technique. The mean operative time was 34.8 min with no major or minor intraoperative complications. Recurrence at 48 months was 1.9% and the mean satisfaction score was 8.9.

CONCLUSION

The double stapled PPH03 technique in selected cases was as safe and effective as a single stapling technique with a lower incidence of recurrence over a medium-term follow-up.

Comparative outcome of stapled trans-anal rectal resection and macrogol in the treatment of defecation disorders

AIM: To prospectively assess the efficacy and safety of stapled trans-anal rectal resection (STARR) compared to standard conservative treatment, and whether preoperative symptoms and findings at defecography and anorectal manometry can predict the outcome of STARR.

METHODS: Thirty patients (Female, 28; age: 51 ± 9 years) with rectocele or rectal intussusception, a defecation disorder, and functional constipation were submitted for STARR. Thirty comparable patients (Female, 30; age 53 ± 13 years), who presented with symptoms of rectocele or rectal intussusception and were treated with macrogol, were assessed. Patients were interviewed with a standardized questionnaire at study enrollment and 38 ± 18 mo after the STARR procedure or during macrogol treatment. A responder was defined as an absence of the Rome III diagnostic criteria for functional constipation. Defecography and rectoanal manometry were performed before and after the STARR procedure in 16 and 12 patients, respectively.

RESULTS: After STARR, 53% of patients were responders; during conservative treatment, 75% were responders. After STARR, 30% of the patients reported the use of laxatives, 17% had intermittent anal pain, 13% had anal leakage, 13% required digital facilitation, 6% experienced defecatory urgency, 6% experienced fecal incontinence, and 6% required re-intervention. During macrogol therapy, 23% of the patients complained of abdominal bloating and 13% of borborygmi, and 3% required digital facilitation.No preoperative symptom, defecographic, or manometric finding predicted the outcome of STARR. Post-operative defecography showed a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.05) of the rectal diameter and rectocele. The post-operative anorectal manometry showed that anal pressure and rectal sensitivity were not significantly modified, and that rectal compliance was reduced (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION: STARR is not better and is less safe than macrogol in the treatment of defecation disorders. It could be considered as an alternative therapy in patients unresponsive to macrogol.

PPH-01 versus PPH-03 to perform STARR for the treatment of hemorrhoids associated with large internal rectal prolapse: a prospective multicenter randomized trial

PURPOSE

This multicenter randomized study was designed to compare the clinical and functional results of stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) performed with 2 staplers (PPH-01 vs. PPH-03) in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease associated with a large internal rectal prolapse.

METHODS

From a total of 937 patients, referred for hemorrhoidal disease in the 20 centers involved in the study, 425 (45.3%) with prolapsed hemorrhoids associated with a large internal rectal prolapse were randomized to undergo STARR with PPH-01 or PPH-03. Postoperative evaluation was made at 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS

The incidence of bleeding at the stapled line was significantly lower in the PPH-03 group than in the PPH-01 group (58/207 [28.0%] vs. 145/201 [72.1%]; P < .0001); the mean number of hemostatic stitches was significantly higher in the PPH-01 than in the PPH-03 group (3.2 ± 0.1 vs. 1.8 ± 0.8; P < .0001). The mean operative time was 25.1 ± 11.5 minutes in the PPH-03 group and 38.1 ± 15.7 minutes in the PPH-01 group (P < .0001). No major complications occurred in either of the groups. At 12-month follow-up, the success rate in the 2 groups was 94.5% in the PPH01 group and 94.2% in the PPH03 group.

CONCLUSION

STARR performed for the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease associated with a large rectal prolapse is a safe and effective procedure. The use of the PPH-03 stapler instead of the PPH-01 guarantees a statistically significant reduction of intraoperative bleeding and a significant decrease of the operative time.

Abdominal resection rectopexy with an absorbable polyglactin mesh: prospective evaluation of morphological and functional changes with consecutive improvement of patient's symptoms

BACKGROUND

The pathophysiology of rectal prolapse and intussusception has not yet been clarified. This is reflected in the multiplicity of surgical procedures. The aim of this prospective study was to measure morphological and functional changes of the pelvic floor and the rectum before and after resection rectopexy.

METHODS

A total of 21 patients (mean age 60 years; 2 men, 19 women) with manifest rectal prolapse and rectoanal intussusception underwent sigmoidectomy and rectopexy with an absorbable polyglactin mesh graft. The following analyses were performed preoperatively and, on average, 15 months (range 6-21 month) postoperatively: radiologic defecography, rectal volumetry, sphincter manometry, and evaluation of clinical symptoms.

RESULTS

Postoperatively there was no patient with rectal prolapse, and only one with an intussusception. Rectal compliance increased from 6.4 to 10.2 ml/mmHg. Rectal volumetry showed a decrease of the thresholds for the sensation of "desire to defecate" and "maximal tolerated volume" (100-75 ml, 175-150 ml). Postoperatively, there was a higher level of the pelvic floor during contraction. The anorectal angle, vector volume, radial asymmetry, sphincter length, and resting and squeezing pressures were unchanged. Surgery improved rectal evacuation (p = 0.03), continence (p = 0.01), stool consistency (p = 0.03), and warning period (p = 0.01). Patients' personal assessment showed an improved overall satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Resection rectopexy is a reliable method for treating rectal prolapse and rectoanal intussusception with clear improvement of the patient's clinical symptoms. The restored anorectal function can be attributed to improved rectal compliance, a lower sensory threshold, an elevation of the pelvic floor during squeezing, and an improved rectal evacuation.

Surgical treatment for constipation in children and adults

Functional constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. In both children and adults, most patients are managed conservatively with good results. In this review, we focus on the surgical approach to constipation. Patients who lack the capacity to consistently have voluntary bowel movements may need mechanical emptying of the colon through an enema program; for them, surgery to allow for antegrade enemas, (via the appendix or using a button device) is useful. Those patients with severe constipation not responsive to intense medical treatment may be candidates for other surgical interventions, such as resection of the dysfunctional colonic segment (rectosigmoid or whole colon), or plication, -pexy, and STARR techniques for evacuatory disorders secondary to obstructive anatomical features. Permanent stomas are an option of last resort.

What is the benefit of a new stapler device in the surgical treatment of obstructed defecation? Three-year outcomes from a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

A randomized study was conducted to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of the stapled transanal rectal resection, using the traditional 2 circular staplers and a new, curved stapler device in patients with obstructed defecation caused by rectal intussusception and rectocele. Stapled transanal rectal resection gives good midterm results in patients with obstructed defecation syndrome, but the limited capacity of the casing of the circular stapler and the impossibility to control the positioning of the rectal wall and the firing of staples may result in incomplete removal of the prolapsed tissues, or serious complications. The new curved multifire stapler could avoid these drawbacks.

METHODS

From January to December 2006, 100 women were selected, with clinical examination, constipation score, colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, and perineography, and randomly assigned to 2 groups: 50 patients underwent stapled transanal rectal resection with 2 traditional circular staplers (STARR group) and 50 had the same operation with a new, curved multifire stapler (TRANSTAR group). Patients were followed up with clinical examination, constipation score, and colpocystodefecography, with the recurrence rate as the primary outcome measure.

RESULTS

Recurrence rates at 3 years were 12.0% in STARR group and 0 in the TRANSTAR group (P = .035). Operating time was significantly shorter in the STARR group (P = .008). Complications were 2 bleeds (4%) in the STARR group and 1 tear of the vagina in the TRANSTAR group. The incidence of fecal urgency was 34.0% in the STARR group and 14.0% in the TRANSTAR group (P = .035). All symptoms and defecographic parameters significantly improved after the operation (P < .001) without differences between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The curved Contour Transtar stapler device did not appear to offer significant advantages over the traditional PPH-01 device during the operation or in the clinical and functional outcomes. However, the lower incidence of fecal urgency and recurrences might justify the higher cost of the new stapler.

Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome: Exploring Possible Management Options

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SRUS) is a rare condition with various causes that results in ischemic injury. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical findings, diagnosis, and outcomes of treatment in patients with SRUS. Between 1992 and 2006, a retrospective review was undertaken for all patients diagnosed with SRUS. Fifty-eight patients were diagnosed with SRUS. Among patients with paradoxic rectal spasm (PRS), lesions disappeared in 1 of 3 given applied biofeedback treatment, and in 2 of 4 injected with Botulinum toxin (BotoxTM). Twenty-three patients underwent appropriate surgical treatment. Overall, postoperative improvement was seen in 18 patients (78.2%). In conclusion, every patient with SRUS must be assessed for causative disease. Treatment should include conservative approaches such as Botox injection; in patients with pelvic floor disorders, surgical treatment should be considered.

Evidence-based management of pain after haemorrhoidectomy surgery

BACKGROUND

Haemorrhoidectomy is associated with intense postoperative pain, but optimal evidence-based pain therapy has not been described. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the available literature on the management of pain after haemorrhoidal surgery.

METHODS

Randomized studies published in the English language from 1966 to June 2006, assessing analgesic and anaesthetic interventions in adult haemorrhoidal surgery, and reporting pain scores, were retrieved from the Embase and MEDLINE databases.

RESULTS

Of the 207 randomized studies identified, 106 met the inclusion criteria, with mixed methodological quality. Of these, 41 studies evaluating surgical and alternative interventions were excluded. Quantitative analyses were not performed, as there were limited numbers of trials with a sufficiently homogeneous design.

CONCLUSION

Local anaesthetic infiltration, either as a sole technique or as an adjunct to general or regional anaesthesia, and combinations of analgesics (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, paracetamol and opiates) are recommended. If appropriate, a stapled operation may be preferable.

Assessing the safety, effectiveness, and quality of life after the STARR procedure for obstructed defecation: results of the German STARR registry

BACKGROUND

Internal rectal prolapse and rectocele are frequent clinical findings in patients with obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS). However, there is still no evidence whether stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) provides a safe and effective surgical option. Therefore, the German STARR registry was initiated to assess safety, effectiveness, and quality of life.

METHODS

The German STARR registry was designed as an interventional, prospective, multicenter audit. Primary outcomes include safety (morbidity and adverse events), effectiveness (ODS, symptom severity, and incontinence scores), and quality of life (PAC-QoL and EQ-5D) documented at baseline and at 6 and 12 months. Statistical evaluation was performed by an independent research organization of clinical epidemiology.

RESULTS

Complete data of 379 patients (78% females, mean age 57.8 years) were entered into the registry database. Mean operative time was 40 min, mean hospitalization was 5.5 days. A total of 103 complications and adverse events were reported in 80 patients (21.1%) including staple line complications (minor bleeding, infection, or partial dehiscence; 7.1%), major bleeding (2.9%), and postsurgical stenosis (2.1%). Comparisons of ODS and symptom severity scores (SSS) demonstrated a significant reduction in ODS score between baseline (mean 11.14) and 6 months (mean 6.43), which was maintained at 12 months (mean 6.45), and SSS at preoperative and at 6- and 12-month follow-up (13.02 vs. 7.34 vs. 6.59; paired t test, p < 0.001). Significant reduction in ODS symptoms was matched by an improvement in quality of life as judged by symptom-specific PAC-QoL and generic ED-5Q (utility and visual analog scale) scores and was not associated with an impairment of incontinence score following STARR (p > 0.05). However, 11 patients (2.9%) showed de novo incontinence, and new-onset symptoms of fecal urgency were observed in 25.3% of patients.

CONCLUSION

These data indicate that STARR is a safe and effective procedure. However, conclusions are limited due to the selection and reporting bias of a registry. The problem of fecal urgency needs cautious reassessment.

Stapled transanal rectal resection for obstructed defecation syndrome associated with rectocele and rectal intussusception

AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR), and to analyze the outcome of the patients 12-mo after the operation.

METHODS: From May 2007 to October 2008, 50 female patients with rectocele and/or rectal intussusception underwent STARR. The preoperative status, perioperative and postoperative complications at baseline, 3, 6 and 12-mo were assessed. Data were collected prospectively from standardized questionnaires for the assessment of constipation [constipation scoring system, Longo’s obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) score system, symptom severity score], patient satisfaction (visual analogue scale), and quality of life (Patient Assessment of Constipation-Quality of Life Questionnaire).

RESULTS: At a 12-mo follow-up, significant improvement in the constipation scoring system, ODS score system, symptom severity score, visual analog scale and quality of life (P < 0.0001) was observed. The symptoms of constipation improved in 90% of patients at 12 mo after surgery. The self-reported definitive outcome was excellent in 15 (30%) patients, fairly good in 8 (16%), good in 22 (44%), and poor in 5 (10%).

CONCLUSION: STARR can be performed safely without major morbidity. Moreover, the procedure seems to be effective for patients with obstructed defecation associated with symptomatic rectocele and rectal intussusception.

Residual skin tags following procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids: differentiation from recurrence

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of recurrence and residual skin tag after the procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) versus conventional hemorrhoidectomy (CH) in the Chinese- and English-language literature to explore the definition of recurrence after PPH.

METHODS

Related Chinese- and English-language literature was collected by several methods. Meta-analysis was used to compare the incidence of recurrence and residual skin tag of PPH versus CH.

RESULTS

In China, 13.94% of hemorrhoids had a skin tag after PPH. The mean recurrence rate after PPH was 3.23% (range 0.40-26.44%). Our meta-analysis of PPH versus CH of the Chinese studies showed that PPH had a significantly lower recurrence rate-13 studies, odds ratio (OR) 0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17-0.42, p < 0.00001-and a higher incidence of skin tags with no significance-6 studies, OR 3.42, 95% CI 0.49-24.04, p = 0.22. Our meta-analysis of PPH versus CH among the English-language studies showed that PPH had a significantly higher recurrence rate-17 studies, 636 patients in the PPH group vs. 625 patients in the CH group, OR 2.96, 95% CI 1.57-5.56, p = 0.0008-and a significantly higher incidence of residual skin tags-8 studies, 297 patients in the PPH group vs. 289 patients in the CH group, OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.15-3.05, p = 0.01. However, the recurrence of prolapse was stated to be ascertained by anorectal examination in only six studies; meta-analysis of the six studies showed that PPH was not associated with a higher recurrence-six studies, 230 patients in the PPH group vs. 220 patients in the CH group; OR 1.87, 95% CI 0.70-5.00, p = 0.22.

CONCLUSIONS

PPH is not associated with a higher recurrence rate but is associated with a higher incidence of skin tags compared with CH. The reported high recurrence rates are probably caused by improper inclusion of residual skin tags into the recurrence data. Surgeons should perform anorectal examinations to differentiate a residual skin tag from a recurrence.

Stapled haemorrhoidopexy for the treatment of haemorrhoids: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term safety, efficacy and costs of stapled haemorrhoidopexy (SH) compared with conventional haemorrhoidectomy.

METHOD

We searched 26 electronic databases and websites for studies in any language up to July 2006. Inclusion criteria were predefined, and each stage of the review process was conducted in duplicate.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven randomized controlled trials were included (n = 2279). All had some methodological flaws. Postoperatively, 19 trials (95%) reported less pain, 17 (89%) reported a shorter operating time, 14 (88%) a shorter hospital stay, and 14 (93%) a shorter convalescence time following SH. However, prolapse was significantly more common after SH (OR 3.38; 95% CI: 1.00, 11.47). In the longer term, prolapse was significantly more common after SH (OR 4.34; 95% CI: 1.67, 11.28) as was reintervention for prolapse (OR 6.78; 95% CI: 2.00, 23.00). There were no differences in the rate or type of complications. Conventional haemorrhoidectomy and SH had similar costs during the initial admission.

CONCLUSION

Compared with conventional haemorrhoidectomy, SH resulted in less postoperative pain, shorter operating time, a shorter hospital stay, and a shorter convalescence, but a higher rate of prolapse and reintervention for prolapse.

Surgical treatment of patients with constipation and fecal incontinence

Patients with constipation and fecal incontinence usually come to the attention of the surgeon when conservative measures have failed to alleviate sufficiently severe symptoms. Following detailed clinical and physiologic assessment, the surgeon should tailor the procedure to specific underlying physiologic abnormalities to restore function. This article describes the rationale, indications (including patient selection), results, and current position controversies of surgical procedures for constipation and fecal incontinence, dividing these into those regarded as historical, contemporary, or evolving. Reported surgical outcome data must be interpreted with caution because for most studies the evidence is of low quality, making comparison of different procedures problematic and emphasizing the need for better designed and conducted clinical trials.

Long-term outcome of stapled hemorrhoidopexy for Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoids

PURPOSE

This study was designed to assess the long-term results of stapled hemorrhoidopexy in 291 patients with Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoids after a minimum follow-up of five years.

METHODS

Records of patients submitted to stapled hemorrhoidopexy for Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoids between January 1999 and December 2002 were retrospectively analyzed. Long-term outcome was evaluated with a standardized questionnaire and an office visit, including anorectal examination and rigid proctoscopy.

RESULTS

A total of 291 patients with Grade III (57.4 percent) and Grade IV (42.6 percent) hemorrhoids were evaluated. Intraoperative (20.3 percent) and postoperative (4.8 percent) bleeding was the most frequent complication. The questionnaire was submitted to all patients at a median follow-up of 73 (range 60-93) months. There were no symptoms related to hemorrhoids in 65.3 percent of patients, moderate symptoms in 25.4 percent of patients, and severe symptoms in 9.3 percent of patients. Fifty-three (18.2 percent) patients had recurrence. Reoperation was necessary in 21 (7.2 percent) patients (4 in Grade III hemorrhoids and 17 in Grade IV hemorrhoids; P < 0.001), with no recurrent symptoms and/or prolapse. Patient satisfaction for operation was 89.7 percent.

CONCLUSIONS

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is a safe and effective treatment for Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoids. Recurrence requiring reoperation was higher in Grade IV hemorrhoids than in Grade III hemorrhoids.

Postoperative complications after procedure for prolapsed hemorrhoids (PPH) and stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedures

Procedure for prolapsing hemorrhoids (PPH) and stapled transanal rectal resection for obstructed defecation (STARR) carry low postoperative pain, but may be followed by unusual and severe postoperative complications. This review deals with the pathogenesis, prevention and treatment of adverse events that may occasionally be life threatening. PPH and STARR carry the expected morbidity following anorectal surgery, such as bleeding, strictures and fecal incontinence. Complications that are particular to these stapled procedures are rectovaginal fistula, chronic proctalgia, total rectal obliteration, rectal wall hematoma and perforation with pelvic sepsis often requiring a diverting stoma. A higher complication rate and worse results are expected after PPH for fourth-degree piles. Enterocele and anismus are contraindications to PPH and STARR and both operations should be used with caution in patients with weak sphincters. In conclusion, complications after PPH and STARR are not infrequent and may be difficult to manage. However, if performed in selected cases by skilled specialists aware of the risks and associated diseases, some complications may be prevented.

Postoperative complications after procedure for prolapsed hemorrhoids (PPH) and stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedures

Procedure for prolapsing hemorrhoids (PPH) and stapled transanal rectal resection for obstructed defecation (STARR) carry low postoperative pain, but may be followed by unusual and severe postoperative complications. This review deals with the pathogenesis, prevention and treatment of adverse events that may occasionally be life threatening. PPH and STARR carry the expected morbidity following anorectal surgery, such as bleeding, strictures and fecal incontinence. Complications that are particular to these stapled procedures are rectovaginal fistula, chronic proctalgia, total rectal obliteration, rectal wall hematoma and perforation with pelvic sepsis often requiring a diverting stoma. A higher complication rate and worse results are expected after PPH for fourth-degree piles. Enterocele and anismus are contraindications to PPH and STARR and both operations should be used with caution in patients with weak sphincters. In conclusion, complications after PPH and STARR are not infrequent and may be difficult to manage. However, if performed in selected cases by skilled specialists aware of the risks and associated diseases, some complications may be prevented.