Rubber band ligation for 550 patients of symptomatic haemorrhoids out of 2200 patients retrospective study

ABSTRACT

This retrospective study was conducted to elucidate the results of the treatment for symptomatic haemorrhoids using rubber band ligation [RBL] method. Method: a retrospective study for 550 patients who came to the colorectal unit from June 1998 to June 2006, data was retrieved from archived files. Forty four patients with haemorrhoid had liver cirrhosis.RBL was performed using the Mc Gown applicator on an outpatients basis. The patients were asked to return to out-patient clinic for follow up at 2 week, 1, 6, months and through telephone call every 6 month for 2 years]. After RBL 496 patients [90.18%] were cured with no difference in outcome for first, second or third degree haemorrhoids [P value = 0.31]. symptomatic recurrence was detected in 16.03% after 2 years then repeated RBL or surgery were done for them. A total of 88 patients [16%] had 155 complications from RBL which required no hospitalization. Complications were registered; pain in 10.37%, rectal bleeding in 8.36% and vaso-vagal symptoms in 7.81%. RBL is a safe and successful method for treating symptomatic haemorrhoids, even in cirrhotic patients