Randomized controlled study: radiofrequency coagulation and plication versus ligation and excision technique for...

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Rectal mucosal prolapse requires effective treatment options.
• Conventional ligature and excision procedure (LEP) is a standard surgical approach.
• A novel technique, radiofrequency ablation and plication of the rectal mucosa (RAMP), has been developed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the novel radiofrequency ablation and plication of the rectal mucosa (RAMP) technique.
• To compare the outcomes of RAMP with the conventional ligature and excision procedure (LEP).

Main Methods:

• Patients with rectal mucosal prolapse were randomized to undergo either LEP or RAMP.
• Radiofrequency ablation was performed using an Ellman radiofrequency generator.
• Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes, including complications, were systematically recorded.

Main Results:

• RAMP demonstrated reduced operation time, shorter hospitalization, and significantly less postoperative pain compared to LEP.
• Patients undergoing RAMP experienced earlier return to work and shorter wound healing times.
• The complication rate was significantly lower in the RAMP group (9%) versus the LEP group (29%).

Conclusions:

• Radiofrequency ablation and plication of the rectal mucosa (RAMP) is a safe and effective treatment for rectal mucosal prolapse.
• The RAMP procedure is swift, offering significant advantages over conventional surgical methods.
• RAMP can be proposed as a superior alternative to traditional surgical procedures for rectal mucosal prolapse.