Stapled versus excision haemorrhoidectomy: long-term follow up of a randomised controlled trial.
Advantages of the stapling procedure for haemorrhoids include reduced postoperative pain and shortened convalescence; however, there are few data with respect to functional and symptomatic outcome. At a dedicated clinic, we reviewed patients between Dec, 2001, and March, 2002, who had taken part in a randomised controlled trial undertaken at the unit in 1999, which compared outcomes after open or stapled haemorrhoidectomy. We noted the presence or absence of haemorrhoid specific symptoms, and assessed overall satisfaction, continence, and quality of life. Rigid sigmoidoscopy and an anorectal examination were also used to examine symptomatic recurrence and disease activity. At minimum follow-up of 33 months since surgery, both techniques seem to be equally effective.
Academic Surgical Unit, University of Hull, Castle Hill Hospital, Castle Road, HU16 5JQ, Cottingham, UK.
Edward F
EF
Smyth
Richard P
RP
Baker
Bert J
BJ
Wilken
John E
JE
Hartley
Tim J
TJ
White
John R T
JR
Monson
D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006484:Hemorrhoids / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011184:Postoperative Period; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D013537:Sutures / Q000009:adverse effects*