Long-term results of haemorrhoidectomy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the long-term functional results of Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy.


METHODS
Retrospective multicentre study.


METHODS
One university hospital, one county hospital, and two community hospitals, Sweden.


METHODS
507 of 556 patients who were operated on for haemorrhoids by the Milligan-Morgan technique between January 1987 and December 1995.


METHODS
A questionnaire was sent to all 507 patients, the questions in which focused on functional results and satisfaction.


METHODS
Patients' satisfaction and symptoms of anal incontinence after haemorrhoidectomy.


RESULTS
418 of the 507 responded (82%). Altogether 279 patients (67%) reported a successful result, while 139 patients (33%) reported impaired anal continence. 40 of the 139 patients (29%) claimed that the incontinence was a direct result of the haemorrhoidectomy. Female sex (p = 0.005) and an operation for hygienic problems (p = 0.02) were associated with a higher risk of incontinence.


CONCLUSIONS
Impaired anal continence is common after Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy and a large proportion of affected patients relate their problems to the operation.
Jóhannsson
Helgi O
HO
Department of Surgery, Falu District Hospital, Falun, Sweden. helgi-orn.johannsson@ltdalarna.se
Graf
Wilhelm
W
Påhlman
Lars
L
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006484:Hemorrhoids / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires