An update on surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Bianca Aibuedefe1, Sarah M Kling2, Matthew M Philp3

  • 1Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, 3500 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA. tuh24999@temple.edu.

Insights

Surgical treatments for severe hemorrhoids (grades 3/4) show varied outcomes. While some techniques reduce pain and recurrence, no single method is a definitive "gold standard," necessitating personalized patient-physician discussions.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Innovation
  • Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

  • Pathologic hemorrhoids affect adults aged 45-65, categorized by type (internal/external) and grade (1-4).
  • Surgical intervention is typically reserved for advanced hemorrhoid cases (grades 3 and 4).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically compare the clinical outcomes of diverse surgical treatments for grade 3 and 4 hemorrhoids.
  • To identify superior surgical techniques based on pain, recurrence, complications, and return to work.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of randomized clinical trials comparing surgical interventions for grade 3/4 hemorrhoids.
  • Bayesian network meta-analysis performed using NetMetaXL and WinBUGS.

Main Results:

  • 26 studies (3137 participants) evaluated 14 surgical treatments for grade 3/4 hemorrhoids.
  • Techniques like laser, infrared photocoagulation, and stapling showed reduced pain compared to open/closed hemorrhoidectomies.
  • Lower recurrence rates were observed with Starion and harmonic scalpel; fewer complications with infrared photocoagulation and LigaSure.
  • Doppler-guided and stapled techniques facilitated earlier return to work than open hemorrhoidectomy and laser.

Conclusions:

  • Current literature indicates multiple effective surgical options for severe hemorrhoids, but no single "gold standard" technique.
  • Individualized patient care decisions should be made through open discussion between patients and physicians.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
272
Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management01:25

Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management

Procedures for Kidney StonesMedical intervention is necessary when kidney stones or renal calculi are too large to pass spontaneously (typically greater than 5 millimeters) when stones are accompanied by symptomatic infection (such as fever or pyelonephritis), when they impair kidney function, or when they cause persistent symptoms like severe pain, nausea, or urinary retention. Additionally, patients with only one kidney or those who cannot be treated with medical management also require...
90
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management01:28

Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
203
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS01:17

Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS

Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a subtype of IBS characterized primarily by frequent, loose, or watery stools, abdominal pain, and abdominal discomfort. Therapeutic approaches to managing IBS-D include dietary changes, stress management techniques, and pharmaceutical interventions.
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
389
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:26

Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
60
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
247