Complications Following Anorectal Surgery

The impact of combined administration of ropivacaine and dexamethasone on postoperative analgesia in perianal surgery with pudendal nerve block under ultrasound guidance: a prospective randomized controlled study

Background

In recent years, severe pain after perianal surgery has seriously affected the prognosis of hospitalized patients. How to maximize the improvement of postoperative pain and perioperative comfort becomes particularly important.

Methods

This study was a double-blind randomized controlled trial (Registration No.: ChiCTR2100048760, Registration Date: 16 July 2021, Link: www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=130226), and patients were randomly divided into two groups: one group underwent postoperative 20 mL bilateral pudendal nerve block with 0.5% ropivacaine (P group), and the other group underwent postoperative 20 mL bilateral pudendal nerve block with 0.5% ropivacaine + 8 mg dexamethasone (PD group). The primary outcome was the incidence of moderate to severe pain at the first postoperative dressing change. Secondary outcomes included Quality of recovery-15 (QoR-15) score at 3 days after surgery, sleep quality, pain score at 3 days after surgery, and incidence of adverse events.

Results

In the main outcome indicators, the incidence was 41.7% in the P group and 24.2% in the PD group (p = 0.01). The QoR-15 score and sleep quality in PD group were better than those in P group 2 days before surgery. The incidence of postoperative urinary retention was significantly decreased in PD group (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Local anesthesia with dexamethasone combined with pudendal nerve block after perianal surgery can reduce the incidence of moderate to severe pain during the first dressing change. This may be one of the approaches to multimodal analgesia after perianal surgery.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/, identifier ChiCTR2100048760.

Risk Factors for Readmission in Excisional Hemorrhoidectomy at a Tertiary Teaching Center

INTRODUCTION

Unplanned readmission is often seen after excisional hemorrhoidectomy. This study aims to explore associations between patient and operative factors, and readmission rates in excisional hemorrhoidectomy.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all excisional hemorrhoidectomies performed in Capital and Coast District Health Board for an 8-year period from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2020. The primary outcome measure was 30-day readmissions post hemorrhoidectomy. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors to readmisson. A decision tree model was designed to further look at the interactions between risk factors.

RESULTS

There were a total 370 patients undergoing 389 excisional hemorrhoidectomies over the study period. There were 47 (12.1%) readmissions. The commonest reasons for readmission were pain (48.9%) and bleeding (38%). 17% of readmitted patients required operative intervention. Readmission was associated with the use of advanced energy devices (OR 2.21; P = 0.027). Trainees were more likely to use advance energy devices than consultants (51% versus 38%, P = 0.010). Consultants were involved in more procedures requiring a removal of 3 pedicles or more than trainees (43% versus 30%, P = 0.010). A decision tree model predicts readmission based on primary operator experience, age, advanced energy device use, and patient ethnicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Two risk models are presented showing the complex relationship between the factors associated with readmission after hemorrhoidectomy. Advanced energy device use was associated with an increased risk of readmission after hemorrhoidectomy in our population. Future work could involve targeted interventions to patients at increased risk of readmission such as preprocedural and postprocedural information, early interval follow-up and targeted analgesia regimes.

Current update on the role of endoanal ultrasound: a primer for radiologists

Endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) is a valuable imaging modality for the evaluation of anal and perianal pathologies. It provides detailed information about the anatomy and physiology of the anorectal region and has been used in pre-and post-operative settings of anorectal pathologies. EAUS is not only useful in the evaluation of benign pathologies but also in loco-regional staging of anal and rectal tumors. EAUS has several advantages over MRI, including reduced cost, better patient tolerance, and improved scope of application in patients with contraindications to MRI. Despite its benefits, EAUS is not widely performed in many centers across the globe. This article aims to educate radiologists, trainees, and surgeons about the indications, contraindications, patient preparation, imaging technique, and findings of EAUS. We will also highlight the technical difficulties, diagnostic challenges, and procedural complications encountered during EAUS, along with a comparative analysis of EAUS with other imaging approaches.

Local anesthesia versus saddle block for open hemorrhoidectomy: cost-analysis from a randomized, double blind controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Despite the benefits attributed to the use of local anesthesia (LA) for open hemorrhoidectomy (OH) in developed countries, this technique is still not considered as the first line technique in low-income countries such as Uganda; therefore, we aimed at comparing the cost of OH under LA versus Saddle block among patients with 3rd or 4th degree hemorrhoids.

METHODS

This trial was conducted from December 2021 to May 2022 among patients with primary uncomplicated 3rd or 4th degree hemorrhoids. The operating time, and direct costs in (US$) including medical and non-medical were recorded. We analysed the cost in the two groups (local anesthesia versus saddle block) using SPSS version 23.0.

RESULTS

Findings of fifty-eight patients were analysed including 29 participants per group. There was a significant difference in operating time and cost among the two groups (p < 0.05). The mean operating time was 15.52 ± 5.34(SD) minutes versus 33.72 ± 11.54 min for OH under LA and SB respectively. The mean cost of OH under LA was 57.42 ± 8.90 US$ compared to 63.38 ± 12.77US$ in SB group.

CONCLUSION

The use of local anesthesia for OH was found to have less operating time with high-cost effectiveness. Being affordable, local anesthesia can help to increase the turnover of patients who would otherwise wait for the availability of anesthesia provider. Policy makers should emphasize its applicability in low-income settings to help in the achievement of 2030 global surgery goals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, PACTR202110667430356. Registered on 08/10/2021.

Comparison the effect of gelatin sponge and epinephrine-soaked gauze for hemostasis and pain control after hemorrhoidal surgery

Post-operative pain and bleeding are the main complications following hemorrhoidal surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether an absorbable gelatin sponge is a superior hemostatic and analgesic agent compared to gauze soaked in epinephrine for post-hemorrhoidal surgery care. A retrospective study was conducted using data from a single institute. Data were collected from the electronic medical record database and outpatient patient questionnaire archive. The study encompassed 143 patients who received gauze soaked in epinephrine as the hemostatic agent after hemorrhoidal surgery and 148 patients who received an absorbable gelatin sponge. Most patients underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy, with 119 (83.2%) in epinephrine group and 118 (79.7%) in gelatin sponge group. The primary outcome measurements were postoperative pain score, oral analgesic dosage and complications. Patients in the absorbable gelatin sponge group reported significantly lower pain scores from 8 h after their hemorrhoidal surgery (postoperative day 0) through postoperative day 2. The average pain scores in the absorbable gelatin sponge group and gauze soaked in epinephrine group were 5.3 ± 3.2 and 6.2 ± 3.2 (p = 0.03) on postoperative 8 h; 4.7 ± 3.0 and 5.8 ± 2.9 (p ≤ 0.01) on postoperative day one; and 4.4 ± 2.8 and 5.3 ± 2.9 (p = 0.01) on postoperative day two, respectively. There were no significant differences in postoperative recovery or complication rates between the two groups. Our study revealed that absorbable gelatin sponges provide more effective pain relief to patients during the initial postoperative days after hemorrhoidal surgery, without any adverse impact on patient outcomes. Consequently, absorbable gelatin sponges are recommended as a replacement for gauze soaked in epinephrine following hemorrhoidal surgery.

A rare presentation of large bowel obstruction post haemorrhoidectomy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhoidal disease is a common anorectal pathology. Complications post hemorrhoidectomy are rare. Postoperative complications following hemorrhoidectomy include bleeding (2%), infection (0.4-8%), urinary retention (15%), and constipation (15-30%).

CASE PRESENTATION

A 40-year-old of Asian background female presented to a tertiary colorectal service with large bowel obstruction post hemorrhoidectomy. This is the first case in the surgical literature describing large bowel obstruction secondary to extrinsic compression from urinary retention following hemorrhoidectomy. The patient developed urinary retention and obstructed defecation in setting of inadequate analgesia post hemorrhoidectomy. The patient required indwelling catheter insertion and aggressive constipation management to resolve symptoms. Histopathology from the hemorrhoidectomy did not reveal a malignancy.

CONCLUSION

Anesthetic choice and postoperative analgesia are important factors to avoid the development of complications. A missed malignancy diagnosis must always be excluded with patients presenting post hemorroidectomy with bowel obstruction.

Local excision versus thrombectomy in thrombosed external hemorrhoids: a multicenter, prospective, observational study

BACKGROUND

Available guidelines describing the procedural treatment of thrombosed external hemorrhoids (TEH) rely solely on expert opinion. We aimed to compare local excision (LE) and thrombectomy (incision) in terms of treatment success, factors affecting success, and outcomes.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, prospective, observational study conducted in eight centers from September 2020 to September 2021. A total of 96 patients (58 LE, 38 thrombectomy) were included. Risk factors, demographics and clinical characteristics were recorded. Follow-up studies were scheduled for the 1st week, 1st, 3rd and 6th months. Surgical success was assessed at 1 month. Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score (HDSS) and Short Health Scale (SHS) were applied at baseline and the 6th month. Wexner fecal incontinence score was applied at all follow-up studies.

RESULTS

Overall mean age was 41.5 ± 12.7 years. At baseline, groups were similar with regard to demographics and disease severity (HDSS) (p > 0.05 for all). Success was relatively higher in the thrombectomy group (86.8%) compared to the LE group (67.2%) (p = 0.054). Constipation and travel history were significantly associated with lower likelihood of LE success. Symptoms during follow-up were similarly distributed in the groups. Both methods yielded significant improvements in HDSS, SHS and Wexner scores; however, SHS scores (6 months) and Wexner scores (all time points) were significantly better in the thrombectomy group.

CONCLUSION

The in-office thrombectomy procedure may have better short-term outcomes compared to LE in terms of relative success, recurrence and quality of life-despite the fact that success rates were statistically similar with the two interventions. LE may yield particularly worse results in patients with constipation and travel history; thus, thrombectomy appears to be especially advantageous in these patient subsets.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection, Endoscopic Mucosal Resection, and Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery for the Management of Rectal and Anorectal Lesions: A Narrative Review

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) are modern techniques that now play a crucial role in the treatment of colorectal lesions. ESD is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that allows for the resection of lesions of any size in a single piece, with clear advantages regarding oncological outcomes and recurrences. However, it is a complex technique, requiring high endoscopic skills, expertise, and specialized training, with higher rates of adverse events expected compared with EMR. EMR is another endoscopic technique used to remove superficial gastrointestinal tumors, particularly those that are limited to the mucosal layer. It is a faster and more accessible procedure, with fewer adverse events, although it only allows for an en-bloc resection of lesions measuring 15-20 mm. TAMIS is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to remove rectal tumors, involving the insertion of a single-port device through the anus, allowing for a better visualization and removal of the tumor with minimal disruption. This article reviews the current applications and evidence regarding these techniques, in search for the most adequate treatment for the removal of lesions in the rectum and anorectal junction, as these locations possess distinct characteristics that demand a more specific approach.

The role of the Rafaelo procedure in the management of hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to summarize the current evidence regarding the role of the Rafaelo procedure in the management of hemorrhoidal disease (HD).

METHODS

This study was based on the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search was performed (Medline, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science) from inception to 25/09/2022. Grey literature databases were also reviewed. The primary endpoint was the pooled complications rate of the Rafaelo procedure in patients with HD. Secondary endpoints included short- (bleeding, pain, thrombosis, necrosis, urinary retention, fever, oedema, anal fissure, and readmission) and long-term (stenosis, meteorism, constipation, anal tags, anal hyposensibility, reoperation, and recurrence) postoperative complication rates. Both prospective and retrospective studies were considered. Quality evaluation was performed via the ROBINS-I tool. Certainty of Evidence was based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology.

RESULTS

Overall, 6 non-randomized studies and 327 patients were included. The overall complication rate was 17.6% (95% CI 8.8-26.3%). Short-term complications were bleeding (7.5%, 95% CI 2.5-12.5%), thrombosis (2.2%, 95% CI 0.4-4.8%), and pain (1.6%, 95% CI 0.2-3.3%). Reoperation and recurrence rates were 1.8% (95% CI 0.3-3.4%) and 4.8% (95% CI 1.2-8.4%), respectively. A significant improvement in the presenting symptoms was noted. Method approval and patient satisfaction rates were 89.1% (95% CI 81.7-96.6%) and 95% (95% CI 89.8-100%), correspondingly. Overall CoE was "Very Low".

CONCLUSIONS

Further randomized controlled trials are required to delineate the exact role of the Rafaelo procedure in HD.

A comparative study of rubber band ligation versus BANANA-Clip in grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids

PURPOSE

Rubber band ligation (RBL) for grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids is a well-established modality of choice. But RBL is also a kind of surgical treatment; it is not free from complications (e.g., delayed bleeding [DB], rectal stenosis). This study aimed to investigate the results of the comparative treatment of RBL and BANANA-Clip (BC; Endovision).

METHODS

Study participants were 632 consecutive patients with grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids attended to Department of Colorectal Surgery at Wellness Hospital between January 2010 and May 2019. We retrospectively reviewed the incidence rate of complications, including DB between RBL and BC.

RESULTS

There were 304 male and 328 female patients, whose ages ranged from 15 to 84 years, with a mean age of 45.7 years. The common symptom and cause of treatment was prolapse (70.1%). The number of ligated sites was 1.49±0.57 in the RBL group and 1.99±0.77 in the BC group. RBL showed a significantly higher incidence of DB (3.5%) compared to BC (0%) (P=0.001). The 1-year success rate was 95.9% in the RBL group and 99.7% in the BC group (P=0.005).

CONCLUSION

In our study, BC was more reliable in treating grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids with higher success rates and less post-ligation complications, especially DB, compared to RBL.

The efficacy of topical sucralfate in improving pain and wound healing after haemorrhoidectomy procedure: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomised clinical trials

Pain and wound after haemorrhoidectomy constantly bothered the patient's convenience. Recurrently, topical sucralfate is used to treat excoriations and burns. It is considered to enhance epidermal growth and tissue granulation, thus, alleviating patients' problems. This study evaluated topical sucralfate's feasibility, safety, and superiority after haemorrhoidectomy. We searched randomised controlled trial (RCT) studies in PubMed, Google Scholar, Europe PMC, and ClinicalTrials.gov until March 29th, 2022. We investigated the influence of topical sucralfate on pain score postoperatively (24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days), pethidine usage, diclofenac usage, and wound healing rate compared to placebo. This study was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. This study sorted the final six studies with 439 patients underwent haemorrhoidectomy. Topical sucralfate demonstrated significant outcomes on VAS 24 hours post-operative [Std. Mean Difference -1.00 (95% CI -1.70, -0.31), P = .005], VAS 7 days post-operative [Std. Mean Difference -2.29 (95% CI -3.34, -1.25), P < .0001], VAS 14 days post-operative [Std. Mean Difference -1.88 (95% CI -2.74, -1.01), P < .0001], pethidine usage within 24 hours post-operative [Std. Mean Difference -0.62 (95% CI -0.96, -0.27), P = .0004], diclofenac usage 7 days post-operative [Std. Mean Difference -1.76 (95% CI -2.61, -0.92), P < .0001], diclofenac usage 14 days post-operative [Std. Mean Difference -1.64 (95% CI -2.38, -0.91), P < .0001], and wound healing rate at 28-day post-operative [RR 1.45 (95% CI 1.25-1.68), P < .00001]. Topical sucralfate alleviated pain, improved wound healing, and minimised the usage of pethidine and diclofenac compared to placebo.

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.

Perianal Abscess Following Excisional Hemorrhoidectomy in an Immunocompetent Patient

Hemorrhoidal disease is the third most common outpatient gastrointestinal diagnosis affecting more than four million patients annually. The management depends on the disease severity, and the treatment options range from lifestyle modification to excisional hemorrhoidectomy. Perianal abscess is an exceedingly rare complication following hemorrhoidectomy, with immunocompromised patients the most commonly affected. The rarity of this complication may be attributed to the natural immunologic process within the reticuloendothelial apparatus of the liver. The disease presentation of perianal abscess after hemorrhoidectomy and its management is unclear in the literature. We present the case of a 44-year-old immunocompetent male with grade II and III hemorrhoidal disease who underwent excisional hemorrhoidectomy that was complicated with perianal abscesses. The patient was successfully managed with incision and drainage with antibiotics. Surgeons should maintain a high index of suspicion for any sign of pelvic sepsis or a developing perianal abscess, particularly in immunocompromised patients.

Reducing Complications After Surgery for Benign Anorectal Conditions

While generally perceived as mundane and low-risk procedures, anorectal surgeries by virtue of their anatomic real-estate-dense with nerves, blood supply, and structures critical to the quality of life-are fraught with the potential for complications. While these complications are generally not life-threatening, their impact to the quality of life can be severe. Furthermore, the sheer volume of anorectal procedures performed each year means that even low complication rates or less severe complications can have significant economic impact.

Open hemorrhoidectomy under local anesthesia versus saddle block in western Uganda: a study protocol for a prospective equivalence randomized, double-blind controlled trial

Background

While open hemorrhoidectomy under local anesthesia has been shown to be more cost-effective with shorter operation times and lower complication rates, local anesthesia is still not considered as a first-line technique in low-income countries like Uganda. The objective of this trial is to compare open hemorrhoidectomy using local anesthesia versus saddle block among patients with primary uncomplicated 3rd- or 4th-degree hemorrhoids in western Uganda.

Methods

The protocol for a prospective equivalence randomized, double-blind controlled trial was conducted among patients with primary uncomplicated 3rd- or 4th-degree hemorrhoids. Recruitment was started in December 2021 and is expected to end in May 2022. Consenting participants who require open hemorrhoidectomy indicated at Kampala International Teaching Hospital, Uganda, will be randomized into two groups of 29 patients per arm.

Discussion

The primary outcome of this study is to compare the occurrences of postoperative pain following open hemorrhoidectomy using the visual analog scale in an interval of 2, 4, and 6 h and 7 days postoperatively. Furthermore, the mean operative time from the induction of anesthesia to the end of the surgical procedure as well as the cost-effectiveness of the 2 techniques will be assessed in both groups. Open hemorrhoidectomy under local anesthesia has the potential to offer benefits to patients but most importantly expediting return to baseline and functional status, shorter hospital stay by meeting the faster discharge criteria, and reduction in costs associated with reduced length of stay and complications.

Trial registration

Pan African Clinical Trials Registry PACTR202110667430356. Registered on 8 October 2021

OUP accepted manuscript

Background

Symptomatic haemorrhoids are a common anorectal disorder. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the omission of tamponade dressings after haemorrhoidectomy reduces postoperative pain without increasing the risk of severe bleeding.

Method

This was an open-label, randomized clinical trial conducted at 14 German hospitals. All patients with third- or fourth-degree haemorrhoids undergoing haemorrhoidectomy were considered eligible for selection in the intervention (no dressing) or control group (tamponade applied). Two co-primary outcomes were analysed by testing hierarchically ordered hypotheses. First, maximum pain intensity within 48 h after surgery was compared between the groups (superiority). This was followed by an analysis of severe bleeding complications, defined as any bleeding requiring surgical re-intervention within 7 days (non-inferiority). Secondary outcomes included health-related quality of life, patient satisfaction, haemoglobin levels, and adverse events.

Results

Out of 950 patients screened, 754 were randomized and 725 received intervention (366 patients in the intervention and 359 patients in the control group). In the group with tamponade dressings, median pain intensity on the 0 to 10 scale was 6 (interquartile range (i.q.r.) 4–7). Patients without tamponade dressings reported significantly less pain (median 5 (i.q.r. 3–7), P < 0.001). In each group, five patients (1.4 per cent) experienced severe bleeding. The absolute difference for the severe bleeding rate was −0.03 per cent with the 90 per cent confidence interval ranging from −1.47 per cent to +1.41 per cent, in line with the non-inferiority aim. No significant between-group difference was found for secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

The practice of inserting tamponade dressings after haemorrhoidectomy correlates with increased postoperative pain and does not provide benefits in terms of reduced postoperative bleeding.

Registration number

DRKS00011590

Saddle block anesthetic technique for benign outpatient anorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Current American Society of Colorectal Surgery Clinical Practice Guidelines for Ambulatory Anorectal Surgery endorse use of monitored anesthesia care, general anesthesia, or spinal anesthesia based on physician and patient preference. Although several studies support the use of monitored anesthesia care over general anesthesia, the literature regarding spinal anesthesia is limited and heterogenous due to small sample sizes and disparate spinal anesthesia techniques. Saddle block anesthesia is a form of spinal anesthesia that localizes to the lowermost sacral spinal segments allowing for preservation of lower extremity motor function and faster recovery. We accrued one of the largest reported cohort of anorectal procedures using saddle block anesthesia, as such, we sought to evaluate our institutional 12-year experience.

METHODS

Patients who underwent a benign anorectal procedure at our outpatient surgery center between July 2008-2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographics, surgical factors, perioperative times, and adverse events were collected from the electronic medical records. Saddle block anesthesia was generally performed in the preoperative area using a spinal needle (25-27 gauge) and a single injection technique of a 1:1 ratio local anesthetic mixed with 10% dextrose solution. Between 2.5-5 mg of hyperbaric anesthetic was injected intrathecally in the sitting position and the patient remained upright for 3-10 minutes. This technique of saddle block anesthesia provides analgesia for approximately 1-3 hours.

RESULTS

In the study, 859 saddle block anesthesia patients were identified, with a mean age of 44.6 years and American Society of Anesthesia score of 1.9; 609 (70.9%) were male. Surgical indications included lesion removal (27.1%), anal fistula (25.8%), hemorrhoidectomy (24.7%), pilonidal disease (6.3%), anal fissure (5.8%), and a combination of prior (10.2%). Prone jackknife positioning was used in 91.6% of procedures. Saddle block anesthesia most often was performed with bupivacaine (48.9%) or ropivacaine (41.7%). The median procedural saddle block anesthesia time was 11 minutes, surgery time was 17 minutes, anesthesia time was 42 minutes, and recovery time was 91 minutes. Patients spent a median of 3 hours and 53 minutes in the facility. Adverse events included urinary retention (1.9%), conversion to general anesthesia (1.8%), spinal headache (1.5%), hemodynamic instability (0.9%), and injection site reaction (0.3%).

CONCLUSION

Demonstrated using the largest known cohort of anorectal patients with saddle block anesthesia, saddle block anesthesia provides an effective method of analgesia to avoid general anesthesia with a low rate of adverse events.

Long-term Outcomes After Anal Fistula Surgery: Results From Two University Hospitals in Thailand

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate long-term outcomes after anal fistula surgery from university hospitals in Thailand.

Methods

A prospectively collected database of patients with cryptoglandular anal fistula undergoing surgery from 2011 to 2017 in 2 university hospitals was reviewed. Outcomes were treatment failure (persistent or recurrent fistula), fecal continence status, and chronic postsurgical pain.

Results

This study included 247 patients; 178 (72.1%) with new anal fistula and 69 (27.9%) with recurrent fistula. One hundred twenty-one patients (49.0%) had complex fistula; 53 semi-horseshoe (21.5%), 41 high transsphincteric (16.6%), 24 horseshoe (9.7%), and 3 suprasphincteric (1.2%). Ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) was the most common operation performed (n = 88, 35.6%) followed by fistulotomy (n = 79, 32.0%). With a median follow-up of 23 months (interquartile range, 12–45 months), there were 18 persistent fistulas (7.3%) and 33 recurrent fistulae (13.4%)—accounting for 20.6% overall failure. All recurrence occurred within 24 months postoperatively. Complex fistula was the only significant predictor for recurrent fistula with a hazard ratio of 4.81 (95% confidence interval, 1.82–12.71). There was no significant difference in healing rates of complex fistulas among seton staged fistulotomy (85.0%), endorectal advancement flap (72.7%), and LIFT (65.9%) (P = 0.239). Four patients (1.6%) experienced chronic postsurgical pain. Seventeen patients (6.9%) reported worse fecal continence.

Conclusion

Overall failure for anal fistula surgery was 20.6%. Complex fistula was the only predictor for recurrent fistula. At least 2-year period of follow-up is suggested for detecting recurrent diseases and assessing patient-reported outcomes such as chronic pain and continence status.

Current concepts in the pathogenesis of cryptoglandular perianal fistula

Cryptoglandular perianal fistula is a common benign anorectal disorder that is managed mainly with surgery. A fistula is typically defined as a pathological communication between two epithelialized surfaces. More specifically, perianal fistula manifests as an abnormal tract between the anorectal canal and the perianal skin. Perianal fistulas are often characterized by significantly decreased patient quality of life. The cryptoglandular theory of perianal fistulas suggests their development from the proctodeal glands, which originate from the intersphincteric plane and perforate the internal sphincter with their ducts. Involvement of proctodeal glands in the inflammatory process could play a primary role in the formation of cryptoglandular perianal fistula. The objective of this narrative review was to investigate the current knowledge of the pathogenesis of cryptoglandular perianal fistula with the specific aims of characterizing the potential role of proinflammatory factors responsible for the development of chronic inflammation. Further studies are crucial to improve the therapeutic management of cryptoglandular perianal fistulas.

Real world outcomes of lateral internal sphincterotomy vs botulinum toxin for the management of chronic anal fissures

BACKGROUND

Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) remains the gold standard surgical approach for the management of chronic anal fissures (CAF). The procedure however, is complicated by the risk of postoperative incontinence. Intrasphincteric Botulinum Toxin (BT) has gained popularity as an alternative approach, despite being inferior to LIS with regards to cure rates. In the real world, patients at high risk for postoperative incontinence are likely to be offered BT as a preliminary procedure. The aim of this study was to explore the real-world outcomes of LIS and BT for a cohort of CAF patients.

METHODS

251 consecutive patients treated with either BT or LS for CAF by a single surgeon were reviewed. Patients were offered BT as a preliminary procedure if they had risk factors for faecal incontinence, whereas all other patients underwent LIS. Primary outcomes included rates of recurrence and faecal incontinence.

RESULTS

LIS was superior to BT with regards to recurrence rates throughout the mean follow up period of five years (5% vs 15%, p = 0.012). A total of 17 patients experienced a minor degree of flatal incontinence at the 6-week follow up, although there was no difference between LIS and BT (7% vs 6%, p = 1.000). Four LIS patients (2%) continued to experience some minor incontinence to flatus at the 12-month follow up and were managed with biofeedback.

CONCLUSION

For patients with CAF, individualizing the treatment approach according to risk factors for incontinence could mitigate this risk in LIS. High risk patients should be offered BT as a preliminary procedure.

Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation in Chronic Post-Surgical Anorectal Pain: A Case Report

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Anorectal pain is a symptom with a negative impact on quality of life and it can sometimes develop into a chronic pain syndrome. Structural anorectal pain is treated according to the underlying pathology. In situations of chronic post-surgical pain that is refractory to conventional therapeutic approaches, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) is an option. PTNS is a neurostimulation technique used in the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction. There has been increasing evidence of its benefits for improving other conditions, such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and faecal incontinence (FI). <b><i>Case Presentation:</i></b> We report a case of a 45-year-old woman with chronic post-surgical anorectal pain (CPAP) treated with PTNS. The patient reported a consistent and dramatic decrease in both the frequency and intensity of pain, assessed by the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). A decrease in the pain interference with mood, normal work, and walking/mobility was also noted, as evaluated by BPI and EQ-5D-3L questionnaires. <b><i>Discussion:</i></b> Neuromodulation treatments have been reported as effective for anorectal pain, but reports on the use of PTNS are rare. The tibial nerve is easily accessible and provides an optimal site for neurostimulation without the need of an operating room or anaesthesia. The overall improvement observed in this case of chronic anorectal pain suggests a potential new area of research for PTNS.

Prophylactic postoperative condom sheet placement: A randomized clinical trial to test a new concept

Objective

Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is one of the most common complications after surgery with several risk factors. However, its precise etiology is not completely understood. So far, the effect of prophylactic condom sheet placement on the prevention of POUR has not been addressed. This study was designed to understand whether preventive condom sheet decreases the rate of POUR.

Materials and methods

This randomized clinical trial was carried out in an educational hospital during 2018-2019. All male patients, who underwent anorectal surgery with spinal anesthesia, were included and randomly allocated into two groups (with and without postoperative condom sheet placement).

Results

A total of 172 patients were included in this study (86 patients per group). Twenty-three (13.4%) patients developed POUR. The incidence of POUR was 15.1% among patients with condom sheets and 11.6% in patients without condom sheets, which was not significantly different (P > 0.5). POUR development had a significant correlation with the use of morphine and history of hypertension in both univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusion

Based on the present results, it seems that condom sheet placement did not effectively prevent POUR in patients; therefore, ambulation of patients after surgery is a more effective strategy for these patients.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Anal Region: Clinical Applications

Over the past years, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a cornerstone in evaluating anal canal and adjacent tissues due to its safeness, the three-dimensional and comprehensive approach, and the high soft-tissue resolution. Several diseases arising in the anal canal can be assessed through MRI performance, including congenital conditions, benign pathologies, and malignancies. Good knowledge of the normal anatomy and MRI technical protocols is, therefore, mandatory for appropriate anal pathology evaluation. Radiologists and clinicians should be familiar with the different clinical scenarios and the anatomy of the structures involved. This pictorial review presents an overview of the diseases affecting the anal canal and the surrounding structures evaluated with dedicated MRI protocol.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Reoperation Rate Has Decreased Over Time If Corrected by Prevalence

Despite the recent emergence of expensive biologic therapies, hospitalization and surgery remain important contributors for the overall costs of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this study, we aimed to describe the burden of reoperations in patients with IBD by evaluating reoperation rates, charges, and risk factors over 16 years.

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

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

Benign anorectal disease: hemorrhoids, fissures, and fistulas

Hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fistulas are common benign anorectal diseases that have a significant impact on patients’ lives. They are primarily encountered by primary care providers, including internists, gastroenterologists, pediatricians, gynecologists, and emergency care providers. Most complex anorectal disease cases are referred to colorectal surgeons. Knowledge of these disease processes is essential for proper treatment and follow up. Hemorrhoids and fissures frequently benefit from non-operative treatment; they may, however, require surgical procedures. The treatment of anorectal abscess and fistulas is mainly surgical. The aim of this review is to examine the etiology, diagnosis, medical, and surgical treatment for these benign anorectal diseases.

Perioperative Adverse Events in Women Undergoing Concurrent Hemorrhoidectomy at the Time of Urogynecologic Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe the incidence and trends of outcomes after concurrent surgeries for symptomatic hemorrhoids and pelvic floor disorders.

METHODS

This was a retrospective matched cohort study. Women who underwent concurrent vaginal urogynecologic and hemorrhoid surgery between 2007 and 2017 were identified by their surgical codes and matched to a cohort of women who underwent vaginal urogynecologic surgery only. The medical record was queried for demographic and perioperative data.

RESULTS

Thirty-three subjects met the inclusion criteria; 198 subjects were matched accordingly (N = 231). Mean age and body mass index were 57 ± 12 years and 28.9 ± 5.6 kg/m, respectively. Subjects who underwent concurrent hemorrhoidectomy were more likely to have had previous prolapse surgery (27.3% vs 15.2%, P = 0.09) and preoperative fecal incontinence (27.3% vs 13.6%, P = 0.05). Concurrent cases were more likely to have unplanned office visits (27.2% vs 12.6%, P = 0.03) and phone calls (range, 1-7 vs 0-10; P = 0.001), mostly for pain complaints. Reoperation was higher in combined cases (3% vs 0%, P = 0.01); however, the overall rate of serious perioperative adverse events was low and not different between groups. Concurrent cases were more likely to be discharged home with a Foley (42.4% vs 18.2%, P = 0.002) and to have a postoperative urinary tract infection (33.3% vs 10.6%, P = 0.005). In the concurrent group, 33.3% of the patients experienced severe rectal pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing concurrent hemorrhoidectomy at the time of vaginal urogynecologic surgery are at higher risk of minor events such as postoperative urinary tract infection and need for discharge home with a Foley, as well as risk of pain that may be greater than urogynecologic surgery alone.

Unplanned Returns to Care within Seven Days after Anorectal Surgery: Can they be Avoided?

With rates up to 50 per cent, unanticipated returns after anorectal surgery remain a major issue. A retrospective analysis was performed on 5929 anorectal operations from January 2011 to December 2015 across 14 Kaiser Permanente Southern California medical centers. Data were gathered on the cause, frequency and timing of unplanned returns to the ED and urgent care. Of all patients, 246 (4%) returned with a nonavoidable diagnosis and 243 (4%) returned with one of four avoidable diagnoses: pain, constipation, urinary retention, and nausea/vomiting. Seventy four per cent of avoidable diagnoses returns occurred within the first four postoperative days, with 48 per cent between days 2 and 4. In patients older than 50 years of age, males showed higher urinary retention (P = 0.001), whereas females had higher constipation (P < 0.001). Contrarily, pain was higher for both males (P = 0.02) and females (P < 0.001) less than 50 years old. In a separate subanalysis on anesthesia type, both constipation (P = 0.03) and urinary retention (P = 0.01) showed double the return rate in the general versus local/monitored anesthesia care group, whereas pain (P = 0.15) and nausea/vomiting (P = 0.20) showed no differences. Half of returns fall into a category that is potentially avoidable with preemptive interventions.