A randomized trial to compare single with multiple phenol injection treatment for haemorrhoids

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery

Background:

• Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting a significant portion of the adult population.
• Various treatment options exist, including conservative management, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of single versus multiple phenol injections for hemorrhoid treatment.
• To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of phenol injection therapy.

Main Methods:

• A randomized trial involving 120 consecutive patients with first or second-degree hemorrhoids.
• Patients were randomized to receive either a single or multiple phenol injections.
• Follow-up assessments were conducted at 3 and 12 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Injection therapy, regardless of single or multiple applications, demonstrated high effectiveness.
• The study included 105 patients with available follow-up data (56 single group, 49 multiple group).
• Both treatment approaches yielded positive outcomes for the targeted hemorrhoid degrees.

Conclusions:

• Phenol injection therapy is an extremely effective treatment for first and second-degree hemorrhoids.
• Both single and multiple injection strategies are viable and successful options.
• This minimally invasive approach offers a beneficial therapeutic solution for hemorrhoid patients.