RESUMO
Hemorrhoids are common surgical problems and there are many methods of treatment such as conventional hemorrhoidectomy, cryosurgery, excision by laser, and rubber band ligation. To compare the results and complications of rubber band ligation as a primary treatment of internal hemorrhoids with conventional hemorrhoidectomy. This prospective study which was performed in Al-Kindy Teaching Hospital from Jan.2000- Dec.2002.compared the results of two different methods of treatment [rubberband ligation,conventional hemorrhoidectomy]in 268 cases of 2nd, 3[rd] degree hemorrhoids, regarding their efficacy and the complications of these procedures These cases were randomized in equal numbers into two groups: Group 1: Treated by rubber band ligation [134 cases]. Group 2: Treated by conventional hemorrhoidectomy [134 cases]. The average period of follow up after completion of treatment was three months for both groups. Symptomatic improvement occured in 128 patients treated by rubber hand ligation 95.52% and in 125 patients 93.28% treated by conventional hemorrhoidectomy. No improvement occured in 6 cases 4.48% treated by rubber band ligation,and9cases 6.72% who were treated by conventional hemorrhoidectomy had residual symptoms. The complications were generally minor, including pain, slight rectal bleeding , thrombosed external piles and were managed satisfactorily. Rubber band ligation had less early and late complications than conventional hemorrhoidectomy in the treatment of the second and third degree hemorrhoids