Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
Formalin instillation for uncontrolled radiation induced haemorrhagic proctitis
Gautam Chattopadhyay1, Dipankar Ray, Saurav Chakravartty
1Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Medical College, Kolkata, India.
Background:
Radiation induced haemorrhagic proctitis is a well recognized complication of pelvic radiotherapy and its treatment is quite challenging.
Aim:
To evaluate the efficacy of local instillation of 4% formalin in the management of uncontrolled radiation induced haemorrhagic proctitis.
Methods:
This prospective study included twenty-three patients who underwent formalin instillation. We documented the control of the symptoms, assessed the outcome of the treatment, presence of complications & long term results.
Results:
All patients were followed for a median of 13 months. In 15 patients, the bleeding stopped after a single treatment and in 6 after a second session. Only two patients required formalin instillation for the third time. During the follow-up period all patients were reviewed systemically with reference to the pretreatment complaints. No recurrent rectal bleeding occurred, bowel frequency was decreased and no further blood transfusion was required.
Conclusion:
Local instillation of 4% formalin is an effective treatment for uncontrolled radiation induced haemorrhagic proctitis.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Drugs for Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in IBD
Lower GI Series: Barium Enema
Procedure Details
The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...

