Long-term outcomes of stapled hemorrhoidopexy vs conventional hemorrhoidectomy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the long-term results of stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH) compared with conventional hemorrhoidectomy (CH) and to define the role of SH in the treatment of hemorrhoids.


METHODS
Published randomized controlled trials of CH vs SH with a minimum clinical follow-up of 12 months were searched and selected in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases using the keywords hemorrhoid, stapl, and anopexy, without language restrictions.


METHODS
Potentially relevant studies were identified by the title and the abstract, and full articles were obtained and assessed in detail.


METHODS
Studies were scored according to the presence of 3 key methodologic features of randomization, blinding, and accountability of all patients, including withdrawals, and the scores ranged from 0 to 5. Studies that received a score from 3 to 5 were considered high-quality studies, whereas those with a score of 2 or less were considered of low quality. A specifically designed data form was used to collect all relevant data, including details of the experimental design, patient demographics, technical aspects, outcome measures, and complications.


RESULTS
Fifteen articles met the inclusion criteria for a total of 1201 patients. Outcomes at a minimum of 1 year showed a significantly higher rate of prolapse recurrences in the SH group (14 studies, 1063 patients; odds ratio, 5.5; P < .001) and patients were more likely to undergo further treatment to correct recurrent prolapses compared with the CH group (10 studies, 824 patients; odds ratio, 1.9; P = .02).


CONCLUSIONS
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is a safe technique for the treatment of hemorrhoids but carries a significantly higher incidence of recurrences and additional operations compared with CH. It is the patient's choice whether to accept a higher recurrence rate to take advantage of the short-term benefits of SH.
Giordano
Pasquale
P
Department of Colorectal Surgery, Whipps Cross University Hospital, London E11 NR, England. pasquale.giordano@whippsx.nhs.uk
Gravante
Gianpiero
G
Sorge
Roberto
R
Ovens
Lauren
L
Nastro
Piero
P
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006484:Hemorrhoids / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012008:Recurrence; D012086:Reoperation; D017792:Surgical Stapling; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome