Cap-assisted endoscopic sclerotherapy for hemorrhoids: Methods, feasibility and efficacy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic procedures

Background:

• Internal hemorrhoids affect a significant portion of the population.
• Current treatment options for internal hemorrhoids have varying success rates and potential complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the methodology, feasibility, safety, and efficacy of cap-assisted endoscopic sclerotherapy (CAES) for internal hemorrhoids.
• To assess patient satisfaction with the novel CAES procedure.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 30 patients with grade I to III internal hemorrhoids was conducted.
• Colonoscopy with terminal ileum examination was performed prior to CAES.
• CAES was performed using a cap, endoscope, injection needle, insufflated air, and sclerosing agent. Polypectomy or anal papilla fibroma excision was done if indicated.

Main Results:

• No bleeding complications were observed post-CAES.
• One patient (3.33%) experienced mild tenesmus, attributed to the endoscopist's initial experience with the procedure.
• 100% of patients reported satisfaction with CAES, particularly when combined with other endoscopic resections.

Conclusions:

• Cap-assisted endoscopic sclerotherapy (CAES) is a convenient, safe, and effective flexible endoscopic therapy for internal hemorrhoids.
• The procedure demonstrates high patient satisfaction and a favorable safety profile.