First 100 cases with Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation.

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting many adults.
• Surgical interventions for hemorrhoids aim to improve outcomes and reduce recovery time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL).
• To assess surgical outcomes, functional recovery, and postoperative pain associated with Doppler-guided HAL.
• To determine the safety and feasibility of Doppler-guided HAL as an outpatient procedure.

Main Methods:

• 100 patients with symptomatic Grades II or III hemorrhoids underwent Doppler-guided HAL.
• The procedure involved sonographic identification and ligation of superior rectal artery branches.
• Postoperative pain was assessed using Visual Analog Scales; outcomes were evaluated at multiple follow-up points.

Main Results:

• The mean operative time was 19 minutes, with most patients receiving local anesthesia and sedation.
• Postoperative pain scores significantly decreased within 24 hours.
• 94% of patients remained asymptomatic at a mean 6-month follow-up, with no reported incontinence or persistent pain.

Conclusions:

• Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation is a safe and effective treatment for hemorrhoids.
• The procedure can be performed as an outpatient surgery with minimal postoperative pain.
• Patients experience early functional recovery and high rates of long-term symptom relief.