Anorectal disorders

Prevalence of Hemorrhoids and the Associated Risk Factors Among the General Adult Population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

INTRODUCTION

Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the most common benign anorectal conditions. It is described as the symptomatic enlargement and abnormally downward displacement of anal cushions. Its effect on the quality of life of patients is significantly negative and is considered one of the leading causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. However, studies that determine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with hemorrhoidal disease are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of and risk factors for hemorrhoids among the general adult population in the city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with a structured, prevalidated questionnaire and was used with some modifications. It was created using Google Forms (Google, Mountain View, CA) and distributed via social media platforms in Arabic along with the English version of each question. All data from the returned survey were encrypted. IBM SPSS Statistics, version 21 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

A total of 400 participants completed the study questionnaire. Regarding the prevalence of hemorrhoids among the general population in Makkah, 64 participants (16%) reported that they were diagnosed with hemorrhoid disorder. The most reported symptoms among participants with hemorrhoids were pain with defecation (76.2%), discomfort (63.5%), and swelling (55.6%).

CONCLUSION

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common complaints among surgical patients and are more prevalent in men. The risk of hemorrhoids is significantly higher in married women with a history of pregnancy, who are overweight, and who consume low-fiber diets. It is better to practice close follow-up of patients with hemorrhoids to avoid complications, particularly, patients with chronic diseases who are at a high risk.

Altered Gut Microbic Flora and Haemorrhoids: Could They Have a Possible Relationship?

To date, the exact pathophysiology of haemorrhoids is poorly understood. The different philosophies on haemorrhoids aetiology may lead to different approaches of treatment. A pathogenic theory involving a correlation between altered anal canal microflora, local inflammation, and muscular dyssynergia is proposed through an extensive review of the literature. Since the middle of the twentieth century, three main theories exist: (1) the varicose vein theory, (2) the vascular hyperplasia theory, and (3) the concept of a sliding anal lining. These phenomena determine changes in the connective tissue (linked to inflammation), including loss of organization, muscular hypertrophy, fragmentation of the anal subepithelial muscle and the elastin component, and vascular changes, including abnormal venous dilatation and vascular thrombosis. Recent studies have reported a possible involvement of gut microbiota in gut motility alteration. Furthermore, dysbiosis seems to represent the leading cause of bowel mucosa inflammation in any intestinal district. The alteration of the gut microbioma in the anorectal district could be responsible for haemorrhoids and other anorectal disorders. A deeper knowledge of the gut microbiota in anorectal disorders lays the basis for unveiling the roles of these various gut microbiota components in anorectal disorder pathogenesis and being conductive to instructing future therapeutics. The therapeutic strategy of antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation will benefit the effective application of precision microbiome manipulation in anorectal disorders.

Ten-year multicentric retrospective analysis regarding postoperative complications and impact of comorbidities in hemorrhoidal surgery with literature review

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is considered a low-severity pathology by both general population and physicians, but the lengthy conservative therapy and postoperative complications suggest otherwise.

AIM

To assess the effectiveness of different treatment options, both conservative and surgical, in contrast with some preexisting comorbidities.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, 10-yearlong study between January 2011 and December 2021 in two surgical centers, a private and a state-owned hospital. We compared the efficacy and safety of several treatment options, such as open hemorrhoidectomy, stapled hemorrhoidopexy, rubber band ligation and infrared coagulation in terms of complication rates and types and their correlation with different preexisting comorbidities such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), use of anticoagulant medication (AM) and liver cirrhosis. We also conducted a 20-years long PubMed research (1.263 articles) for relevant comparisons.

RESULTS

Our study recorded 10940 patients with HD, 10241 with conservative and 699 with surgical treatment. Out of these, the male-to-female ratio of 1.3, and a peak in age distribution between 59 and 68 years old (32% of patients). For the entire study, we recorded a 90% incidence of immediate pain, immediate bleeding in 1.5% (11 cases), delayed bleeding in 1.0% (7 cases), and 0.6% surgical site infections. Urinary retention was also present, with 0.2% of patients, anal stricture in 1% and fecal incontinence for 0.5% of patients (4 cases). We recorded no severe complications such as Fournier`s gangrene or rectovaginal perforations. IBD accounted for 6% of the patients, with ulcerative colitis in 12% and Chron`s disease in 10.5%. 6.6% of the patients had AM, determining 4% immediate and 2% delayed bleeding, in surgically treated patients.

CONCLUSION

Our study determined that most common complications (pain, urinary retention, bleeding, and stricture) are correlated with each surgical technique and pre-existing comorbidities.

Rhabdomyolysis with acute anuria renal failure caused by surgical injection-induced tetanus in an adult

Tetanus is a rapidly progressive infection characterised by painful spasms and muscular rigidity with a series of complications including airway obstruction, respiratory failure, pulmonary infection, heart arrhythmias and acute kidney injury. Rhabdomyolysis with acute anuria renal failure is rarely reported as a complication in tetanus. We present a case of an adult who suffered from rhabdomyolysis combined with acute anuria renal failure caused by surgical injection-induced tetanus. This patient was treated with tetanus immunoglobulin, control of muscle spasm, mechanical ventilation and haemoperfusion plus continuous veno-venous haemofiltration (CVVH). The patient fully recovered and was discharged from hospital 5 weeks after admission. Good bowel preparation is an important prerequisite for preventing tetanus in a haemorrhoids operation. Effective control of muscle spasms with neuromuscular blockers and early administration of haemoperfusion plus CVVH are vital to the treatment of tetanus-induced rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure.

Anal fissure management by the gastroenterologist

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Anal fissures are very common. They are easy to diagnose and treat in the office setting. They may coexist with hemorrhoids. In fact 20% of patients with hemorrhoids have anal fissures also. The purpose of this review is to highlight current diagnosis and treatment of anal fissures using diet, ointments and botulinum toxin to enable healing. Medical treatment relies on reducing anal sphincter spasm to allow improved blood flow and healing.

RECENT FINDINGS

Many anorectal disorders can be managed in the office. Most anal fissures can be managed without the need for surgery. The need for anorectal examination, including use of anoscopy is stressed in the current literature. The use of calcium channel blockers in preference to nitroglycerin is highlighted as well as the use of botulinum toxin when ointments don't work.

SUMMARY

Anal fissure can be managed nonsurgically most of the time and gastroenterologists should be able to manage them. This article should help in preventing unnecessary surgery and its complications, mainly incontinence in a small but significant number. The search for more effective drugs and options for managing this disorder continues.

Comparative clinical study of Apamarga Kshara application, infrared coagulation and Arshohara Vati in the management of Arsha (1st and 2nd degree hemorrhoids)

Introduction:

In anorectal disorders, incidences of piles and fissures are increasing in Indian population due to western lifestyle. Many surgical methods are available to cure anorectal disorders, but now a days, demand for Ayurveda and herbal preparation is increasing in society.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, Apamarga Kshara application, infrared coagulation (IRC) procedure and Arshohara Vati (AV) tablet were administered for the management of internal hemorrhoid (Arsha). This study was an open labelled, prospective, interventional study, in which patients of piles [n = 30 (10 each group)] were selected from OPD of Institutional hospital. Apamarga Kshara application (AKA) was done on the internal piles for 1–3 sittings as per requirement, IRC was applied at the base of piles for one sitting and two tablets (500 mg each tablet) of AV were given orally thrice a day for 15 days. In all the three groups, the patients were assessed every week for 1 month and were followed up for another 1 month for relief in signs and symptoms.

Results:

Obtained results were analyzed and encouraging results were observed after completion of the treatment.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that Apamarga Kshara application is the most effective treatment for the management of internal hemorrhoid of 1^st and 2^nd degree in comparison to IRC procedure and administration of Arshohara Vati.

The Evaluation and Office Management of Hemorrhoids for the Gastroenterologist

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hemorrhoid disease is extremely common, and seldom requires surgical intervention. The vast majority of patients can be cared for in the office setting and by the gastroenterologist. This piece aims to summarize the epidemiology and pathophysiology of hemorrhoid disease, along with the proper evaluation and office-based treatment of these patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Most GI fellowship training programs spend little time on these topics, and the recommendation has been made to include anorectal care in the GI's "core curriculum." The use of the anoscope and a proper anorectal examination are keys to evaluating these patients, and the techniques available to treat these patients are described. Often overlooked in these patients are other anorectal issues that occur alongside hemorrhoidal issues very commonly-the most common being anal fissure. Comprehensive management of all of these issues will allow all but the most severely affected patients to avoid the expense and morbidity of surgical intervention. The anatomy, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatment of hemorrhoid disease are presented with the gastroenterologist in mind.

Skin and soft tissue infections in the intensive care unit: a retrospective study in a tertiary care center

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors that may influence outcomes in patients with severe skin and soft tissue infections in the intensive care unit.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted in a cohort of 1,123 critically ill patients admitted to an intensive care unit with a primary or secondary diagnosis of severe skin and soft tissues infection between January 2006 and December 2014.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were included, 20 (66.7%) of whom were diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis; in these patients, perineal area involvement was most commonly identified. Abscess was diagnosed in 8 (26.7%) patients, most commonly involving the cervical area. Risk factors such as immunosuppression and previous surgical trauma were commonly observed in this population. The most commonly isolated microorganism was Escherichia coli. Multidrug resistant microorganisms were commonly detected, even in the absence of traditional risk factors; among these patients, previous use of antibiotics was the most common risk factor for drug resistance. The rate of mortality was significantly higher in patients with necrotizing fasciitis (55%, p = 0.035) and associated with disease severity, presence of septic shock, cardiac arrest and leucocytosis.

CONCLUSION

Different risk factors and etiologies of severe skin and soft tissue infections were identified. Necrotizing fasciitis and drug-resistant bacteria were significant predictors of mortality, even in the absence of traditional risk factors. Obtaining a better understanding of trends in the risk factors and microorganisms associated with severe skin infections may help in the determination of prompt treatment and antibiotic choices.

Can balneotherapy improve the bowel motility in chronically constipated middle-aged and elderly patients?

Balneotherapy or spa therapy is usually known for different application forms of medicinal waters and its effects on the human body. Our purpose is to demonstrate the effect of balneotherapy on gastrointestinal motility. A total of 35 patients who were treated for osteoarthritis with balneotherapy from November 2013 through March 2015 at our hospital had a consultation at the general surgery for constipation and defecation disorders. Patients followed by constipation scores, short-form health survey (SF-12), and a colonic transit time (CTT) study before and after balneotherapy were included in this study, and the data of the patients were analyzed retrospectively. The constipation score, SF-12 score, and CTT were found statistically significant after balneotherapy (p < 0.05). The results of our study confirm the clinical finding that a 15-day course of balneotherapy with mineral water from a thermal spring (Bursa, Turkey) improves gastrointestinal motility and reduces laxative consumption in the management of constipation in middle-aged and elderly patients, and it is our belief that treatment with thermal mineral water could considerably improve the quality of life of these patients.

Xiaozhi decoction reduced posthemorrhoidectomy pain and analgesic medication consumption: a prospective study

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Xiaozhi decoction (XZD) on posthemorrhoidectomy pain and analgesic medication consumption.

Methods

From May 2013 to March 2015, 315 patients who underwent open hemorrhoidectomy in our hospital were enrolled in this study, of whom, 160 patients were randomly assigned to accept sitz bath with warm water after hemorrhoidectomy (control group) and 155 patients were randomly assigned to accept sitz bath with XZD (XZD group) after hemorrhoidectomy. Postoperative pain at 12 hours after surgery and on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 2, 7, 14 and 28 was evaluated by Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Pain on defecation on PODs 1, 2, 7, 14 and 28 was also recorded using the VAS. The consumption of analgesics was also analyzed.

Results

No significant difference was found in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Postoperative pain score of the XZD group was significantly lower on POD 2 (6.04±1.11 vs 6.33±1.14, P=0.0229), POD 7 (3.35±0.75 vs 4.22±0.87, P=0.0000) and POD 14 (2.87±0.64 vs 3.64±0.77, P=0.0000) than that of the control group. Similarly, patients in the XZD group experienced significantly less pain on defecation on POD 2 (5.02±1.34 vs 5.43±1.56, P=0.0130), POD 7 (3.08±1.17 vs 3.52±1.29, P=0.0017) and POD 14 (2.31±0.85 vs 2.68±0.99, P=0.0004). Patients in the XZD group consumed significantly less analgesic medication on POD 2 (P=0.0136), POD 7 (P=0.0074) and POD 14 (P=0.0046) than the control group.

Conclusion

XZD could effectively relieve postoperative pain and reduce analgesic medication consumption after hemorrhoidectomy.

Project Gel a Randomized Rectal Microbicide Safety and Acceptability Study in Young Men and Transgender Women

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of Project Gel was to determine the safety and acceptability of rectal microbicides in young men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) at risk of HIV infection.

METHODS

MSM and TGW aged 18-30 years were enrolled at three sites; Pittsburgh, PA; Boston, MA; and San Juan, PR. Stage 1A was a cross-sectional assessment of sexual health and behavior in MSM and TGW. A subset of participants from Stage 1A were then enrolled in Stage 1B, a 12-week evaluation of the safety and acceptability of a placebo rectal gel. This was followed by the final phase of the study (Stage 2) in which a subset of participants from Stage 1B were enrolled into a Phase 1 rectal safety and acceptability evaluation of tenofovir (TFV) 1% gel.

RESULTS

248 participants were enrolled into Stage 1A. Participants' average age was 23.3 years. The most common sexually transmitted infection (STIs) at baseline were Herpes simplex (HSV)-2 (16.1% by serology) and rectal Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) (10.1% by NAAT). 134 participants were enrolled into Stage 1B. During the 12 week period of follow-up 2 HIV, 5 rectal CT, and 5 rectal Neisseria gonorrhea infections were detected. The majority of adverse events (AEs) were infections (N = 56) or gastrointestinal (N = 46) and were mild (69.6%) or moderate (28.0%). Of the participants who completed Stage 1B, 24 were enrolled into Stage 2 and randomized (1:1) to receive TFV or placebo gel. All participants completed Stage 2. The majority of AEs were gastrointestinal (N = 10) and of mild (87.2%) or moderate (10.3%) severity.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study we were able to enroll a sexually active population of young MSM and TGW who were willing to use rectal microbicides. TFV gel was safe and acceptable and should be further developed as an alternative HIV prevention intervention for this population.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01283360.

Comparison between a new electronic bidet and conventional sitz baths: a manometric evaluation of the anal resting pressure in normal healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND

A bidet has been proposed as a replacement for the sitz bath. Like a sitz bath, it brings water into contact with the perineum. However, the high force of water from commercially used electronic bidets may harm the anus. We developed a new electronic bidet and evaluated its effects on anal resting pressure compared with a warm sitz bath.

METHODS

Forty volunteers used the electronic bidet and sitz bath on separate days. The electronic bidet was newly designed with warm (38 °C) water and very low force (10 mN) with a fountain type of flow. Anal resting pressure at the high-pressure zone was measured before (control) and after the electronic bidet and sitz bath. Pressure changes after bidet or sitz bath were expressed as percentages compared with control. Water temperatures and rectal temperatures were also recorded.

RESULTS

The anal resting pressures before the electronic bidet and sitz bath were 90.2 ± 24.6 and 88.1 ± 16.8 mmHg, respectively. At 3 min after the electronic bidet and sitz bath, the anal resting pressures were 71.3 ± 23.4 and 69.6 ± 19.8 mmHg, respectively. The pressure changes compared with the control were 78.2 ± 12.9 and 78.1 ± 12.5%, respectively, which were not significantly different. The maximal increase and minimal decrease were not significantly different. The rectal temperature was not elevated, and the water temperature decreased significantly with the sitz bath (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our new electronic bidet may reduce the anal resting pressure much like a warm sitz bath does.

The effects of topical application of metronidazole for treatment of chronic anal fissure: A randomized, controlled pilot study

BACKGROUND

Chronic anal fissures (CAFs) rarely heal with conservative management. Because they are associated with strong anal sphincter tone, most treatment aim to reduce anal pressure. Although infections can cause fissures, as can traumatic injury to the anal canal, antimicrobial treatment is not recommended. In a previous study, we reported identifying a wide spectrum of pathogenic microorganisms in the bases of CAFs, anaerobic bacteria being present in half the cases. We postulated that microbial colonization delays healing of CAF and aimed to determine whether decreasing the bacterial load with topical antibacterial treatment accelerates fissure healing.

METHODS

We cultured fecal samples and swabs from the bases of CAFs in 103 patients. Patients in whose samples anaerobic bacteria were identified (47 patients) were then invited to participate in a prospective randomized clinical trial comparing topical metronidazole with conventional treatment. The primary endpoint was fissure healing confirmed on anoscopy. Secondary endpoints of maximum pain on defecation assessed by visual analog scale, maximum anal resting pressure, and rectal pH were recorded on entry and at 10, 21, and 28 days.

RESULTS

The CAFs were colonized by mixtures of gram-positive/gram-negative anaerobic bacteria or gram-negative aerobic monocultures. Patients with anaerobic bacteria in their swabs who received topical metronidazole treatment experienced rapid relief of pain and anal sphincter spasm along with enhanced fissure healing (95.6 % healing rate compared with 70.8 % in the control group, p = 0.048).

CONCLUSION

Topical antimicrobial treatment can be effective in patients with CAF provided the relevant microorganisms are correctly identified.

Effect of electronic toilet system (bidet) on anorectal pressure in normal healthy volunteers: influence of different types of water stream and temperature

Although bidets are widely used in Korea, its effects on anorectal pressures have not been studied in detail in terms of the water settings used. Twenty healthy volunteers were placed on a toilet equipped with a bidet, and anorectal pressures were measured with a manometry catheter inserted into the rectum and anal canal before and after using the bidet at different water forces (40, 80, 160, 200 mN), temperatures (24°C vs 38°C), and water jet widths (narrow vs wide). The pressure at anal high pressure zone decreased from 96.1 ± 22.5 to 81.9 ± 23.3 mmHg at water jet pressure of 40 mN and 38°C wide water jet (P < 0.001), from 94.3 ± 22.4 to 80.0 ± 24.1 mmHg at water jet pressure of 80 mN and 38°C narrow water jet (P < 0.001), and from 92.3 ± 22.4 to 79.6 ± 24.7 mmHg at a water jet pressure of 80 mN and 38°C wide water jet (P < 0.001). At other settings, no significant changes were observed. Our results indicate that, in addition to cleansing effect, bidet could be used to reduce anal resting pressure in the same manner as the traditional warm sitz bath under the conditions of low or medium water jet pressure, a warm water temperature, and a wide type water jet.

Warm sitz bath: are there benefits after transurethral resection of the prostate?

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of warm water sitz baths in patients who have undergone transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) owing to lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed the records of 1,783 patients who had undergone TURP between 2001 and 2009. In the warm water sitz bath group, patients were instructed to sit in a tub containing lukewarm water at 40-45℃ for 10 minutes each time. Patients were advised to perform the procedure for at least 5 days immediately after the removal of a Foley urethral catheter. The differences in post-TURP complications between the warm water sitz bath group and the no sitz bath group were compared.

Results

After TURP, 359 of the 1,561 patients performed a warm water sitz bath. Complications after TURP, such as hemorrhage, urinary tract infection, urethral stricture, and acute urinary retention were found in 19 (5.3%) and 75 (6.2%) patients in the sitz bath and no sitz bath groups, respectively (p=0.09). There was a significant difference in postoperative complications such as urethral stricture between the warm sitz bath group and the no sitz bath group (p=0.04). The group that did not undergo warm water sitz bath treatment showed a 1.13-fold increased risk of rehospitalization within 1 month after TURP due to postoperative complications compared with the warm water sitz bath group (odds ratio [OR]=1.134; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.022 to 1.193; p=0.06).

Conclusions

Warm water sitz bath treatment reduced postoperative complications such as urethral stricture. These results suggest that large-scale prospective studies are needed to establish an ideal method and optimal duration of sitz baths.

Prospective analysis of clinician accuracy in the diagnosis of benign anal pathology: comparison across specialties and years of experience

PURPOSE

The majority of patients referred to a colorectal surgeon with anal complaints are told they have "hemorrhoids"; however, many of these patients have other anal pathology causing their symptoms. Therefore, we prospectively evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of physicians for common anal pathology, stratified by specialty and experience.

METHODS

Seven common benign anal pathologic conditions were selected (prolapsed internal hemorrhoid, thrombosed external hemorrhoid, abscess, fissure, fistula, condyloma acuminata, and full-thickness rectal prolapse). Prospectively accrued subjects included attending physicians, fellows, residents, and medical students. Subjects were shown images and asked to provide a written diagnosis. We prospectively evaluated the overall diagnostic accuracy and stratified accuracy across specialties and years of clinical experience. Medical students were the control group.

RESULTS

There were 198 physicians and 216 medical students. Overall diagnostic accuracy for physicians was 53.5% and for controls was 21.9% (P < .001). Surgeons had the highest overall accuracy at 70.4%, whereas all of the other groups had an accuracy of <50%. Physicians correctly identified condylomata and rectal prolapse most frequently and hemorrhoidal conditions least frequently. All 7 conditions were correctly identified by 4.1% of subjects and all of the conditions were incorrectly diagnosed by 20.2%. There was no correlation between years of experience and diagnostic accuracy (P = NS).

CONCLUSION

Diagnostic accuracy for common benign anal pathologic conditions was suboptimal across all clinical specialties. Although many specialties had a diagnostic accuracy that was significantly better than the control group, there was no association between years of experience and accuracy. Improved programs for physician education for these common conditions should be developed.

Aetiology of thrombosed external haemorrhoids: a questionnaire study

BACKGROUND

It is important to better understand the aetiology of thrombosed external haemorrhoids (TEH) because recurrence rates are high, prophylaxis is unknown, and optimal therapy is highly debated.

FINDINGS

We conducted a questionnaire study of individuals with and without TEH. Aetiology was studied by comparison of answers to a questionnaire given to individuals with and without TEH concerning demography, history, and published aetiologic hypotheses. Participants were evaluated consecutively at our institution from March 2004 through August 2005.One hundred forty-eight individuals were enrolled, including 72 patients with TEH and 76 individuals without TEH but with alternative diagnoses, such as a screening colonoscopy or colonic polyps. Out of 38 possible aetiologic factors evaluated, 20 showed no significant bivariate correlation to TEH and were no longer traced, and 16 factors showed a significant bivariate relationship to TEH. By multivariate analysis, six independent variables were found to predict TEH correctly in 79.1% of cases: age of 46 years or younger, use of excessive physical effort, and use of dry toilet paper combined with wet cleaning methods after defaecation were associated with a significantly higher risk of developing TEH; use of bathtub, use of the shower, and genital cleaning before sleep at least once a week were associated with a significantly lower risk of developing TEH.

CONCLUSION

Six hypotheses on the causes of TEH have a high probability of being correct and should be considered in future studies on aetiology, prophylaxis, and therapy of TEH.

Comparison of clinical effects between warm water spray and sitz bath in post-hemorrhoidectomy period

BACKGROUND

Warm water sitz bath is advised for a variety of anorectal disorders. However, preparation of the sitz bath is sometimes difficult for patients. As an alternative to the sitz bath, we have adapted a water spray method. A randomized, controlled study was conducted to determine if the water spray method has similar effects to the sitz bath in the post-hemorrhoidectomy period and it is easy to carry out.

METHODS

A total of 120 patients were randomly assigned to water spray or sitz bath groups. All patients received analgesics and a fiber-rich diet after hemorrhoidectomy. Clinical parameters including pain, irritation (burning or itching sensations), hygiene, convenience, and overall satisfaction were evaluated by a visual analog scale to assess treatment outcome in both groups.

RESULTS

There was no obvious difference in age, gender distribution, body mass index, or duration of disease between groups. There were no significant difference in scores for postoperative pain (p = 0.23), irritation (p = 0.48), or hygiene (p = 0.725) between groups. However, the water spray group reported significantly greater convenience (p < 0.05) and higher overall satisfaction (p < 0.05) compared with the sitz bath group. At the end of the 4-week postoperative follow-up period, 90% of patients in the watery spray group and 93% of patients in the sitz bath group showed complete wound healing. There were no significant differences in postoperative complications between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that the water spray method could provide a safe and reliable alternative to the sitz bath for post-hemorrhoidectomy care. Furthermore, the water spray method could be used instead of the sitz bath as a more convenient and satisfactory form of treatment.

Randomized clinical trial of botulinum toxin injection for pain relief in patients with thrombosed external haemorrhoids

BACKGROUND

Thrombosed external haemorrhoids are one of the most frequent anorectal emergencies. They are associated with swelling and intense pain. Internal sphincter hypertonicity plays a role in the aetiology of the pain. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of an intrasphincteric injection of botulinum toxin for pain relief in patients with thrombosed external haemorrhoids.

METHODS

Thirty patients with thrombosed external haemorrhoids who refused surgical operation were randomized into two groups. Patients received an intrasphincteric injection of either 0.6 ml saline or 0.6 ml of a solution containing 30 units botulinum toxin. Anorectal manometry was performed before treatment and 5 days afterwards.

RESULTS

After 5 days of treatment, the maximum resting pressure fell in both groups, but was significantly lower in the botulinum toxin group (P = 0.004). Pain intensity was significantly reduced within 24 h of botulinum toxin treatment (P < 0.001), but only after 1 week in the placebo group (P = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

A single injection of botulinum toxin into the anal sphincter seems to be effective in rapidly controlling the pain associated with thrombosed external haemorrhoids, and could represent an effective conservative treatment for this condition.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT00717782 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Perineal abscess formation as a complication of intermittent self-catheterization

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

OBJECTIVES

To present a rare but severe complication of intermittent catheterization.

SETTING

Paraplegic centre in Switzerland.

METHOD AND RESULTS

A 52-year-old man presenting with fever and septicaemia was diagnosed with a perineal abscess due to a bulbar urethral lesion caused by acute false passage during intermittent catheterization.

CONCLUSION

Especially in patients with a history of urethral strictures performing intermittent catheterization, the possibility of perineal abscess formation should be taken into account when treating such a patient with fever of unknown origin.

Effects of Warm Water Sitz Bath on Symptoms in Post-anal Sphincterotomy in Chronic Anal Fissure—A Randomized and Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Sitz bath is frequently recommended by physicians for a variety of anal disorders including anal fissure. The aim of the present study was to determine whether sitz bath does have any therapeutic properties improving upon a patient's postoperative symptoms after a closed lateral sphincterotomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-six patients were randomly assigned to receive analgesics and fiber supplement alone (control patients) or a twice-daily sitz bath along with identical fiber and analgesics (sitz bath group). A 24-h pain score--post-defecation anal burning and symptom improvement--was evaluated on a visual analog scale (VAS).

RESULTS

The groups were equally matched for age, gender distribution, and duration of disease. No significant difference in mean pain score between groups (p = 0.284) was noticed after one week. However, the patients from the control group experienced significant anal burning compared with patients from sitz bath group (p < 0.0001). The improvement score was higher in the sitz bath group when compared with the control group; however, it did not reached a statistically significant level.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients after sphincterotomy for anal fissure receiving sitz bath experienced similar levels of pain when compared with those not receiving sitz bath. However, they reported a significant relief in anal burning and a marginally better satisfaction score and no reported adverse side effects.

Pressure ulcer-like presacral gummata in a patient with tertiary syphilis

Pressure ulcers are common among elderly patients. Here, we describe a case of tertiary syphilis with ulcerated gummata, appearing as a possible pressure ulcer. In such a case, wound management has to be accompanied by specific antibiosis to achieve healing.

Internal anal sphincter function following lateral internal sphincterotomy for anal fissure: a long-term manometric study

BACKGROUND

Anal fissure is a common and painful disorder. Its relation to hypertonic anal sphincter is controversial. The most common surgical treatment of chronic anal fissure is lateral internal sphincterotomy.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term manometric results of sphincter healing following lateral internal sphincterotomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2000 and 2003, 50 patients with anal fissure were included in this study and underwent sphincterotomy; 12 healthy patients served as controls. All patients with anal fissure underwent manometric evaluation using a 6-channel perfusion catheter. All patients were examined 1 month before surgery and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months following surgery. The control group had 3 manometric evaluations 6 months apart.

RESULTS

The mean basal resting pressure before surgery was 138 +/- 28 mm Hg. One month after surgery, the pressure dropped to 86 +/- 15 mm Hg (P < 0.0001) and gradually rose to a plateau at 12 months (110 +/- 18 mm Hg, P < 0.0001). At 12 months, the manometric pressure was significantly lower than the baseline (P < 0.0001). However, manometric measurements in the fissure group were still significantly higher than in the control group (110 +/- 18 versus 73 +/- 4.8 mm Hg, P < 0.0001). All patients were free of symptoms at the 12-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Lateral internal sphincterotomy caused a significant decline in the resting anal pressure. During the first year following surgery, the tone of the internal anal sphincter gradually increased, indicating recovery, but still remained significantly lower than before surgery. However, postoperative resting pressures were higher than those in the control, and no patient suffered any permanent problems with incontinence, so this decrease may not be clinically significant.

The role of sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy in the diagnosis and management of lower gastrointestinal disorders: endoscopic findings, therapy, and complications

Flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy have revolutionized the clinical management of colonic diseases. Colonoscopy is a highly sensitive and specific test. Colonic diseases often produce characteristic colonoscopic findings, as well as characteristic histologic findings, as identified in colonoscopic biopsy or polypectomy specimens. Colonoscopy is relatively safe, with a low incidence of serious complications, such as colonic perforation, hemorrhage, cardiopulmonary arrest, or sepsis. Colonoscopy is becoming more important clinically because of more widespread use of screening colonoscopy for colon cancer, application of therapeutic colonoscopy, and exciting new technical improvements.

Comparison of topically applied 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate ointment, incision and excision in the treatment of perianal thrombosis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Topically applied 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate ointment to the anal region, incision and excision were compared in the treatment of perianal thrombosis, in order to establish which method is the best in terms of pain relief, number of recurrences and the appearance of anal skin tags.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 150 patients were randomly divided into three groups of 50, each group being treated by one of the above-mentioned methods. The results of the treatment were evaluated during the first 4 days, after one month and after one year.

RESULTS

A statistically significant reduction of pain was achieved by excision if compared with incision or conservative treatment with glyceryl trinitrate (p<0.001), and by conservative treatment with glyceryl trinitrate if compared with incision (p<0.01 on the 4th day of follow-up. Comparison of patients treated by the three different methods did not reveal any significant difference between these methods after one month (p>0.05). After one year the number of recurrences was significantly reduced after excision if compared with incision (p<0.05) or conservative treatment with glyceryl trinitrate (p<0.05). The number of patients without symptoms was significantly greater after excision if compared with incision or conservative treatment with glyceryl trinitrate (p<0.001). The number of patients with anal skin tags was significantly reduced in patients treated by excision if compared with incision (p<0.001) or glyceryl trinitrate treatment (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Excision is a significantly better method of treatment of perianal thrombosis than incision or topically applied 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate ointment.

Topical Nifedipine(®) for conservative treatment of acute haemorrhoidal thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this prospective, randomized trial was to test the efficacy of the local application of Nifedipine gel(®) in healing acute thrombosed haemorrhoids by relaxing the internal anal sphincter.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Ninety patients who gave written informed consent were recruited; they received a clinical examination, anoscopy and a questionnaire to evaluate symptoms, pain and concurrent use of analgesics. Patients treated with Nifedipine (n=46) received topical 0.3% Nifedipine and 1.5% lidocaine gel every 12 h for 2 weeks. The control group, consisting of 44 patients, received topical 1.5% lidocaine and 1% hydrocortisone acetate gel during therapy.

RESULTS

The results were as follows: relief of pain in 84.7% in Nifedipine group as opposed to 50% of controls after 7 days of therapy (P < 0.01); oral analgesics were used by 8.6% of patients in the Nifedipine group as opposed to 54.5% of the control group (P < 0.01); resolution of thrombosed haemorrhoids occurred after 14 days of therapy in 91.3% of the Nifedipine-treated patients, as opposed to 45.4% of the controls (P < 0.01). No systemic side effects or significant anorectal bleeding were observed in patients treated with Nifedipine.

CONCLUSION

Our study clearly demonstrates that the use of Nifedipine, which at present is for treatment of cardiovascular disorders, should be extended to the conservative treatment of acute thrombosed haemorrhoids, using a topical application.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are one of the most frequent anorectal disorders encountered in the primary care setting. They are the most common cause of hematochezia, and are responsible for considerable patient suffering and disability. With the techniques of diagnosis and office-based interventions described in this article, the primary care provider can effectively relieve most patients' symptoms and ensure that more significant bowel disease is not overlooked.

Anorectal pain and irritation: anal fissure, levator syndrome, proctalgia fugax, and pruritus ani

Anal fissures, proctalgia fugax, levator ani syndrome, and pruritus ani are common causes of anorectal pain and irritation. The clinician who obtains a thorough history and performs a complete examination can accurately diagnose these disorders. Ancillary tests seldom are helpful and rarely are necessary. Most patients suffering from these conditions readily respond to conservative therapy provided in the primary care practitioner's office.