[Stapler procedure for anal prolapse and hemorrhoids: long-term results]

The surgical treatment of internal hemorrhoids and anal canal prolapse using stapler technique was introduced to clinical practice by Longo, as soon as in 1993. Few years later, Czech surgeons became familiar with this technique, and even it is being performed in many surgical departments of our country at the present time. At the Dept. of Surgery, Teaching Hospital Hradec Králové, this surgical method has been carried out since 1999.

To analyze the long-term results of the Longo's operation. This study has been based on the retrospective documentation analysis complemented by a questionnaire-survey.

It is the retrospective documentation study complemented by a questionnaire-survey. The patients received a questionnaire asking questions regarding their subjective feelings and opinions on surgical treatment, as well as on recent status of the illness. Furthermore, the medical documentation was analysed with particular attention to the post-operative period with regard to complications, analgetic therapy need, operation-time, length of the hospital stay and recovery time.

Since 1999, the authors have used stapler technique in internal hemorrhoids operations in 71 patients. From this number 65 patients who were operated on at least one year before the follow-up analysis was performed were included into the study. 51 patients completed and gave back the questionnaire. Average following time was 5.5 years. 92 percent of the patients are very satisfied with the Longo's operation. Low rate of complications, small postoperative pain and early recovery are the basic merits of the hemorrhoids operation with use of stapler technique.

We think of Longo's operation in indicated cases as safe and suitable for the hemorrhoids therapy.