[Proctological surgery: use of an absorbable haemostatic sponge]

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the advantages and efficacy of an absorbable haemostatic sponge for use in coloproctology during surgery for the most frequent pathologies of the anal canal and perineal region. The haemostatic sponge is made of absorbent gelatin that is insoluble in water and is endowed with haemostatic power. It can be produced in various sizes and forms adaptable to different uses and presents no toxic properties. The authors tested the haemostatic sponge in a series of consecutive patients referred to 5 coloproctological centres where they were submitted to surgery for pathologies of the anal canal and perineal region. A total of 100 consecutive patients, 50 with a clinico-instrumental diagnosis of grade III-IV haemorrhoids, 20 with a diagnosis of chronic anal fissure, 20 with symptomatic rectocele and 10 with simple fistulas, underwent surgery for their respective pathologies. In all patients treated, at the end of the procedures, the haemostatic sponge was used, achieving optimal haemostatic control of surgical wounds with no infectious complications. Use of the haemostatic sponge proved easy and satisfactory as regards stability in the anal canal and control of haemostasis after surgery for the most frequent proctological pathologies.