Success and Complication Rates After Sacral Neuromodulation for Fecal Incontinence and Constipation: A Single-center Follow-up Study.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the sustainability of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) success in patients with fecal incontinence (FI) and/or constipation. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of a prospective database of patients who received SNM therapy for FI and/or constipation between 2006 and 2015. Success rates, complications and reintervention rates were assessed after up to 10 years of follow-up. RESULTS: Electrodes for test stimulation were implanted in 101 patients, of whom 79 (78.2%) received permanent stimulation. The mean follow-up was 4.4 ± 3.0 years. At the end of follow-up, 57 patients (72.2%) were still receiving SNM. The 5-year success rate for FI and isolated constipation was 88.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 80.1-97.0%) and 31.2% (95% CI, 10.2-95.5%), respectively (P ＜ 0.001). In patients with FI, involuntary evacuations per week decreased ＞ 50% in 76.1% of patients (95% CI, 67.6-86.2%) after 5 years. A lead position at S3 was associated with an improved outcome (P = 0.04). Battery exchange was necessary in 23 patients (29.1%), with a median battery life of 6.2 years. Reinterventions due to complications were necessary in 24 patients (30.4%). For these patients, the 5-year success rate was 89.0% (95% CI, 75.3-100.0%) compared to 78.4% (95% CI, 67.2-91.4%) for patients without reintervention. CONCLUSIONS: SNM offers an effective sustainable treatment for FI. For constipation, lasting success of SNM is limited and is thus not recommended. Reinterventions are necessary but do not impede treatment success.

[Evidence-based treatment of hemorrhoidal disease]. / Evidenzbasierte Therapie des Hämorrhoidalleidens.

Hemorrhoidal disease represents a prevalent benign condition of the lower gastrointestinal tract. As a common and early symptom of hemorrhoids, patients present with painless rectal bleeding during or after defecation. For the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease, a large variety of operative and non-operative therapeutic options exists. In the present article, the authors aim to provide guidance for stage-directed therapy of hemorrhoidal disease based on up-to-date knowledge and the authors' own clinical experience.

Long-term outcome after transanal rectal resection in patients with obstructed defecation syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Stapled transanal rectal resection with a new, curved, multifire stapler (Transtar procedure) has shown promising short- and midterm results for treating obstructed defecation syndrome. However, few results have been published on long-term outcome. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate long-term functional results and quality of life after the Transtar procedure. DESIGN: This is a retrospective study. SETTING: This study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Switzerland. PATIENTS: Seventy consecutive patients (68 female) with obstructed defecation syndrome had a median age of 65 years (range, 20-90). INTERVENTION: The Transtar procedure was performed between January 2007 and March 2010. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Postoperative functional results were evaluated with the Symptom Severity Score, Obstructed Defecation Score, and Cleveland Incontinence Score. Quality of life was evaluated with the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Score and the SF-36 Health Survey. Data were divided into 4 groups of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year follow-ups. RESULTS: The functional scores showed significant postoperative improvement throughout the studied period (p = 0.01). The quality-of-life scores showed a tendency for improvement only in the mental components on the SF-36 Health Survey (p = 0.01). Sixteen patients reported postoperative fecal urgency, but this subsided within a few months. Nine patients reported new postoperative episodes of incontinence and required further treatment. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature, the selection bias, and a bias by the small number of questionnaires available for some scores. CONCLUSION: The Transtar procedure was successful for long-term treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome. Fecal urgency and incontinence were observed, but typically resolved within months. Therefore, the Transtar procedure appears to be a reasonable approach to treating obstructed defecation syndrome in the long term.

Midterm results after perineal stapled prolapse resection for external rectal prolapse.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies showed that perineal stapled prolapse resection for external rectal prolapse improves continence and has short operation times and low complication rates. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the midterm recurrence rates, functional results, and patient satisfaction after perineal stapled prolapse resection. DESIGN: This was a retrospective study. SETTINGS: : The study was performed at a tertiary hospital in Switzerland. PATIENTS: From November 2007 to October 2011, a total of 56 consecutive patients were included in the study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Recurrence rates, functional results according to the Wexner incontinence scale, and patient satisfaction using a visual analog scale were determined. RESULTS: The median age was 78.5 years (range, 24-94 years), and 2 patients were men. Midterm results were available for 46 (82%) of 56 patients after a median follow-up of 25.5 months (range, 2-47 months). In 10 cases (18%) data collection was not possible. The recurrence rate at 3 years was 19.7% (95% CI 4.2%-32.7%). The Wexner incontinence score improved from a median of 14.5 presurgery to 4.0 points (p < 0.0001) after surgery. Twenty-five patients (54%) stated that their bowel movements were regular postoperatively. On a visual analog scale that measured satisfaction, the median patient score was 9 (range, 0-10), indicating high patient satisfaction. LIMITATIONS: Limitations included the retrospective study design and the lack of clinical examinations to determine recurrence rates. CONCLUSIONS: Perineal stapled prolapse resection is an alternative technique for treating rectal prolapse with a recurrence rate similar to the Altemeier-Mikulicz or Delorme procedures. This technique is a quick and reliable procedure for use in patients with advanced age.

Prospective analysis of cosmesis, morbidity, and patient satisfaction following Limberg flap for the treatment of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus.

PURPOSE: Recent studies have reported excellent healing and low recurrence rates for rhomboid flaps for pilonidal sinus disease. The cosmetic outcome has been less investigated and is the focus of this study following Limberg flap reconstruction of recurrent and complex pilonidal disease. METHODS: From August 2006 to December 2007 patients with a recurrent or complex pilonidal sinus were enrolled consecutively. All underwent excision and closure with a Limberg flap. At 3 weeks, morbidity was assessed in the outpatient clinic. Recurrence rate, self-esteem, cosmetic outcome, body image, and patient satisfaction were analyzed prospectively at 1 year. RESULTS: Seventy patients (57 males) with a median age of 24.8 years (range, 14.7-46.5) were operated on. Median follow-up was 1.4 years (range, 1.0-2.8). The mean cosmetic score was reduced to 16.4 (± 4.3) of 24, the mean body image score was good with 17.9 (± 2.6) of 20, and the mean overall satisfaction was high at 7.6 (± 2.3) of 10. Self-esteem remained unchanged after surgery; it was 7.8 (± 2.3) preoperatively and 7.8 (± 2.1) postoperatively (P = .818). After 3 weeks 84.3% of the wounds were completely healed. Complications occurred in 18 patients (25.7%), including superficial infection and partial suture dehiscence. Six (8.6%) needed reoperation, and all belonged to the group with acute infection before flap closure (P < .001). There was no incidence of flap necrosis. The recurrence rate was 1.6% at 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Initial wound closure and low recurrence rates after treatment with Limberg flap in pilonidal sinus disease lead to high patient satisfaction. The cosmetic outcome is acceptable, but an issue for some patients. These results support the use of the Limberg flap in complex pilonidal sinus disease after carefully informing patients about the cosmetic consequences.

Functional outcome and quality of life after stapled transanal rectal resection for obstructed defecation syndrome.

PURPOSE: Clinical studies have demonstrated that stapled transanal rectal resection with Contour Transtar (Transtar procedure) is a safe and effective treatment for patients with obstructive defecation syndrome. The aim of this study was to determine functional outcome and quality of life after the procedure. METHODS: Female patients with obstructive defecation syndrome were enrolled prospectively for the Transtar procedure. Intussusception and anterior rectocele were confirmed by clinical investigation and by magnetic resonance defecography. Functional outcome was measured by obstructed defecation syndrome score, severity of symptoms score, and Wexner score preoperatively and postoperatively. Quality of life was assessed by the Cleveland Clinic constipation score, the fecal incontinence quality of life scale, and the SF-36v2 health survey. RESULTS: Between January 2007 and November 2008, 52 consecutive patients (median age: 64 years) were included in the study. Before the surgery, 12 patients experienced fecal incontinence. Functional scores improved significantly: 6 weeks after surgery, the obstructed defecation syndrome score decreased from a median of 16 (range, 9-22) to 5 (range, 2-10) and the severity of symptoms score, from 16 (range, 9-21) to 4 (range, 0-9) (each P < .0001). After 6 weeks, 10 patients had fecal incontinence and 12 patients experienced fecal urgency. At 3 months, 6 patients were still incontinent, 3 of whom were treated successfully with sacral neuromodulation. Fecal urgency resolved in all cases after 6 months. Quality of life improved, particularly in the mental components. CONCLUSION: Despite the described postoperative symptoms, most of which can be treated conservatively, the Transtar procedure is an effective treatment for patients with obstructive defecation syndrome and improves quality of life significantly.

Safety and reliability of Radio Frequency Identification Devices in Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography.

BACKGROUND: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices are becoming more and more essential for patient safety in hospitals. The purpose of this study was to determine patient safety, data reliability and signal loss wearing on skin RFID devices during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scanning. METHODS: Sixty RFID tags of the type I-Code SLI, 13.56 MHz, ISO 18000-3.1 were tested: Thirty type 1, an RFID tag with a 76 x 45 mm aluminum-etched antenna and 30 type 2, a tag with a 31 x 14 mm copper-etched antenna. The signal loss, material movement and heat tests were performed in a 1.5 T and a 3 T MR system. For data integrity, the tags were tested additionally during CT scanning. Standardized function tests were performed with all transponders before and after all imaging studies. RESULTS: There was no memory loss or data alteration in the RFID tags after MRI and CT scanning. Concerning heating (a maximum of 3.6 degrees C) and device movement (below 1 N/kg) no relevant influence was found. Concerning signal loss (artifacts 2 - 4 mm), interpretability of MR images was impaired when superficial structures such as skin, subcutaneous tissues or tendons were assessed. CONCLUSIONS: Patients wearing RFID wristbands are safe in 1.5 T and 3 T MR scanners using normal operation mode for RF-field. The findings are specific to the RFID tags that underwent testing.

Functional outcome after perineal stapled prolapse resection for external rectal prolapse.

BACKGROUND: A new surgical technique, the Perineal Stapled Prolapse resection (PSP) for external rectal prolapse was introduced in a feasibility study in 2008. This study now presents the first results of a larger patient group with functional outcome in a mid-term follow-up. METHODS: From December 2007 to April 2009 PSP was performed by the same surgeon team on patients with external rectal prolapse. The prolapse was completely pulled out and then axially cut open with a linear stapler at three and nine o'clock in lithotomy position. Finally, the prolapse was resected stepwise with the curved Contour Transtar stapler at the prolapse's uptake. Perioperative morbidity and functional outcome were prospectively measured by appropriate scores. RESULTS: 32 patients participated in the study; median age was 80 years (range 26-93). No intraoperative complications and 6.3% minor postoperative complications occurred. Median operation time was 30 minutes (15-65), hospital stay 5 days (2-19). Functional outcome data were available in 31 of the patients after a median follow-up of 6 months (4-22). Preoperative severe faecal incontinence disappeared postoperatively in 90% of patients with a reduction of the median Wexner score from 16 (4-20) to 1 (0-14) (P < 0.0001). No new incidence of constipation was reported. CONCLUSIONS: The PSP is an elegant, fast and safe procedure, with good functional results. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN68491191.

Is sphincter preservation reasonable in all patients with rectal cancer?

PURPOSE: Modern sphincter-preserving surgery for ultralow rectal carcinoma has a comparable oncological radicality to abdomino-perineal extirpation (APE). The aim of this study was to assess the long-term morbidity of ultralow anterior resection (ULAR) and its impact on quality of life (QoL) METHODS: The medical records of 142 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for ultralow rectal carcinoma from January 1991 to December 2004 were reviewed retrospectively. The rate of rehospitalisation and rate of non-reversed temporary stomas ("failure" stoma) were analysed. Generic and cancer-specific quality of life questionnaires were used to assess quality of life. RESULTS: There were a total of 82 ULAR and 60 APE. After ULAR, 25 (30.5%) of the patients were readmitted, stenosis and anastomotic leakage being the main reasons. After APE, only 2 (3.3%) of the patients were readmitted (P < 0.001). The rate of patients with a permanent stoma after sphincter-saving surgery was 22.0%. The failure rate was higher for older patients (P = 0.005) and for coloanal pull-through anastomosis (P = 0.001). The exploratory analysis revealed a negative impact of a "failure" stoma on QoL. CONCLUSION: Severe long-term morbidity and high failure rate of stoma reversal have a significantly worse impact on QoL after ULAR; therefore, APE is a valid alternative to ULAR, especially in elder patients with planned coloanal pull-through anastomosis.

Perineal stapled prolapse resection: a new procedure for external rectal prolapse.

PURPOSE: A perineal approach to treating rectal prolapse is ideal for frail patients. Recently, internal rectal redundancy has been successfully treated with transanal resection using the Contour Transtar stapler. This technique has been modified to the perineal stapled prolapse resection. The surgical technique and the preliminary results of the new procedure for external rectal prolapse are presented. METHODS: Patients not suited for transabdominal treatment were included prospectively for perineal stapled prolapse resection in two colorectal centers. Feasibility, complications, and reinterventions were assessed. RESULTS: In 14 of 15 patients, perineal stapled prolapse resection was performed without complications in a median operating time of 33 (range, 22-52) minutes. One procedure was changed to an Altemeier because of a staple line disruption. Two patients required reintervention as a result of postoperative hemorrhage. No other severe complications occurred. At follow-up, all patients were well and showed no early recurrence of prolapse. CONCLUSIONS: Perineal stapled prolapse resection is a new surgical procedure for external rectal prolapse, which is easy and quick to perform. Functional results and long-term recurrence rate must be investigated further.

Clinical and morphologic correlation after stapled transanal rectal resection for obstructed defecation syndrome.

PURPOSE: The clinical and morphologic outcome of patients with obstructed defecation syndrome after stapled transanal rectal resection was prospectively evaluated. METHODS: Twenty-four consecutive patients (22 women; median age, 61 (range, 36-74) years) who suffered from obstructed defecation syndrome and with rectal redundancy on magnetic resonance defecography were enrolled in the study. Constipation was assessed by using the Cleveland Constipation Score. Morphologic changes were determined by using closed-configuration magnetic resonance defecography before and after stapled transanal rectal resection. RESULTS: After a median follow-up of 18 (range, 6-36) months, Cleveland Constipation Score significantly decreased from 11 (range, 1-23) preoperatively to 5 (range, 1-15) postoperatively (P = 0.02). In 15 of 20 patients, preexisting intussusception was no longer visible in the magnetic resonance defecography. Anterior rectoceles were significantly reduced in depth, from 30 mm to 23 mm (P = 0.01), whereas the number of detectable rectoceles did not significantly change. Complications occurred in 6 of the 24 patients; however, only two were severe (1 bleeding and 1 persisting pain requiring reintervention). CONCLUSIONS: Clinical improvement of obstructed defecation syndrome after stapled transanal rectal resection correlates well with morphologic correction of the rectal redundancy, whereas correction of intussusception seems to be of particular importance in patients with obstructed defecation syndrome.

Decision-making algorithm for the STARR procedure in obstructed defecation syndrome: position statement of the group of STARR Pioneers.

Internal rectal prolapse (rectal intussusception) and rectocele are frequent clinical findings in patients suffering from refractory constipation that may be best characterized as obstructive defecation syndrome. However, there is still no clear evidence whether the stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedure provides a safe and effective surgical option for symptom resolution in patients with obstructive defecation syndrome, as evidence-based guidelines and functional long-term results are still missing. On the basis of the need for objective evaluation, a European group of experts was founded (Stapled Transanal Rectal Resection Pioneers). Derived from 2 meetings (October 26-28, 2006, Gouvieux, France and November 28-29, 2007, St Gallen, Switzerland) a concept for treatment options in patients suffering from obstructive defecation syndrome was developed, including a clear decision-making algorithm specifically focusing on the role of the stapled transanal rectal resection procedure based on clinical symptoms and dynamic imaging and inclusion and exclusion criteria for the stapled transanal rectal resection procedure.

MR defecography: prospective comparison of two rectal enema compositions.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of our study was to compare intraindividually two rectal enema compositions in MR defecography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty patients underwent MR defecography twice on a 0.5-T open-configuration system in the sitting position. During the first imaging session, MR defecography was performed with a rectal enema consisting of potato starch mixed with gadolinium (PS group). During the second session, the enema consisted of ultrasound gel mixed with gadolinium (US group). The imaging protocol consisted of midsagittal T1-weighted gradient-recalled echo MR images obtained at rest, at maximal sphincter contraction, at straining, and during defecation. All images were analyzed quantitatively by measuring the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and reviewed by three independent observers with regard to the visibility of pelvic floor abnormalities and the extent of those abnormalities. RESULTS: The CNR values in the PS group (mean +/- SD, 167.49 +/- 44.4) were significantly higher than those obtained in the US group (150.2 +/- 37.8) (p < 0.05). The visibility scores for anterior rectoceles and intussusceptions were higher in the PS group than in the US group (mean visibility scores: PS group, 2.8 +/- 0.42 and 2.6 +/- 0.56, respectively; US group, 2.3 +/- 0.77 and 2.2 +/- 0.74, respectively). The size and the number of incompletely emptying anterior rectoceles were higher in the PS group. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound gel and potato starch provide good contrast and depiction of relevant pelvic floor abnormalities. However, the visibility of pelvic floor abnormalities and extent of those abnormalities depend on the composition of the rectal enema. In particular, the size and degree of anterior rectocele evacuation and intussusception size are often underestimated when ultrasound gel is used for rectal enema.

Quality of life and morbidity after permanent sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence.

HYPOTHESIS: Permanent sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a promising emerging treatment for fecal incontinence. However, there is little data on morbidity and quality of life (QOL) during long-term stimulation. DESIGN: Prospective trial to assess morbidity and QOL in patients treated with SNS. Median follow-up was 13 months (range, 1-42 months). SETTING: University hospital providing primary, secondary, and tertiary care. PATIENTS: Between December 2001 and July 2005, SNS was tested in 44 patients (30 women), with a median age of 65 years (range, 15-88 years). INTERVENTIONS: Percutaneous nerve evaluation and permanent insertion of an implantable pulse generator. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Morbidity, stool diary, and Wexner Score for fecal incontinence; Hanley Score for urinary incontinence; and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index, the 36-item short form health survey, and the Royal London Hospital questionnaire for QOL. RESULTS: A permanent stimulator was implanted in 37 patients (84%). Eight patients (22%) experienced complications that required surgical intervention. (A successful restimulation was possible for 5 of those patients.) Adverse effects of SNS were remedied in 5 patients by reprogramming the stimulator. Wexner Scores decreased from a median of 16 points preoperatively (range, 6-20), to a median of 5 points postoperatively (range, 0-13; P<.001). The median number of involuntary stool losses and for urge defecations also decreased significantly. Significant improvement in QOL was found in both generic and incontinence-specific questionnaires (P<.05). The success rate of SNS was 77% (34 of 44 patients) and 92% (34 of 37) in patients with permanent implantation. CONCLUSIONS: The minimally invasive technique of SNS is safe and effective. Most adverse effects can be easily remedied. Our data demonstrate that SNS significantly improves patients' QOL, including their physical and psychological well-being.

MR defecography in patients with fecal incontinence: imaging findings and their effect on surgical management.

PURPOSE: To retrospectively evaluate magnetic resonance (MR) defecography findings in patients with fecal incontinence who were evaluated for surgical treatment and to assess the influence of MR defecography on surgical therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional review board approval was obtained. Informed consent was waived; however, written informed consent for imaging was obtained. Fifty patients (44 women, six men; mean age, 61 years) with fecal incontinence were placed in a sitting position and underwent MR defecography performed with an open-configuration MR system. Midsagittal T1-weighted MR images were obtained at rest, at maximal contraction of the sphincter, and at defecation. Images were prospectively and retrospectively reviewed by two independent observers for a variety of findings. Interobserver agreement was analyzed by calculating kappa statistics. Prospective interpretation of MR defecography findings was used to influence surgical therapy, and retrospective interpretation was used for concomitant pelvic floor disorders. RESULTS: MR defecography revealed rectal descent of more than 6 cm (relative to the pubococcygeal line) in 47 (94%) of 50 patients. A bladder descent of more than 3 cm was present in 20 (40%) of 50 patients, and a vaginal vault descent of more than 3 cm was present in 19 (43%) of 44 women. Moreover, 17 (34%) anterior proctoceles, 16 (32%) enteroceles, and 10 (20%) rectal prolapses were noted. Interobserver agreement was good to excellent (kappa = 0.6-0.91) for image analysis results. MR defecography findings led to changes in the surgical approach in 22 (67%) of 33 patients who underwent surgery. CONCLUSION: MR defecography may demonstrate a variety of abnormal findings in patients who are considered candidates for surgical therapy for fecal incontinence, and the findings may influence the surgical treatment that is subsequently chosen. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL: http://radiology.rsnajnls.org/cgi/content/full/2402050648/DC1

Risk factors in acquired faecal incontinence.

Acquired faecal incontinence arising in the non-elderly population is a common and often devastating condition. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis in 629 patients (475 female) referred to a tertiary centre, to determine the relative importance of individual risk factors in the development of faecal incontinence, as demonstrated by abnormal results on physiological testing. Potential risk factors were identified in all but 6% of patients (7 female, 32 male). In women, the principal risk factor was childbirth (91%), and in most cases at least one vaginal delivery had met with complications such as perineal injury or the need for forceps delivery. Of the males, half had undergone anal surgery and this was the only identified risk factor in 59%. In many instances, assignment of cause was hampered by a long interval between the supposed precipitating event and the development of symptoms. Abnormalities of anorectal physiology were identified in 76% of males and 96% of females (in whom they were more commonly multiple). These findings add to evidence that occult damage to the continence mechanism, especially through vaginal delivery and anal surgery, can result in subsequent faecal incontinence, sometimes after an interval of many years.

Influence of stapler haemorrhoidectomy on anorectal function and on patients' acceptance.

PRINCIPLES: Symptomatic haemorrhoids surgery has been shown to be the most successful and definite therapy. Recently a new method using a transanally inserted circular stapler has been presented for treatment of symptomatic prolapsing haemorrhoids. This prospective study investigated the influence of the stapling procedure on the anorectal function and patients' acceptance. METHODS: Eighteen consecutive patients (10 males, 8 females) mean age 44.7 years (range 18- 66) with symptomatic second (n = 3), third (n = 14), and fourth degree (n = 1) haemorrhoids were included. All patients underwent the day before and 8 weeks after the operation a standardised anal manometry using a water perfused system. Mean resting (MRAP) and mean maximal squeeze anal pressures (MSAP) were recorded. Volumes of initial rectal sensation (VIRS), constant rectal sensation (VCRS), and maximal tolerable volume (MTV) of a rectal balloon were assessed. Anorectal symptoms (bleeding, pain, faecal incontinence) were assessed in a standardised fashion preoperatively and 1, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS: The stapling procedure led to no manometric or symptomatic change in anal sphincter function. Pre- and postoperative MRAP (91.7 mm Hg, SD 23.59 / 83.8 mm Hg, SD 14.53, p = 0.053), MSAP (162.6 mm Hg SD 78.68 / 173.9 mm Hg, SD 69.93, p = 0.162), VIRS (55.8 ml, SD 26.12 / 51.7 ml, SD 28.90, p = 0.410), VCRS (109.4 ml SD 41.67/ 96.4 ml, SD 38.44, p = 0.181), and MTV (204.7 ml SD 47.65/ 173.3 ml, SD 43.22, p = 0.053) were similar. No symptoms of rectal pain or faecal incontinence were registered during follow up. Patients' acceptance and satisfaction for the operation were high. CONCLUSIONS: Stapling haemorrhoidectomy is a safe procedure which does not alter anorectal functions. Patients' acceptance and satisfaction are high.

Stapled vs excision hemorrhoidectomy: long-term results of a prospective randomized trial.

HYPOTHESIS: Stapled hemorrhoidectomy offers several advantages over excision hemorrhoidectomy, including reduced postoperative pain, a reduced hospital stay, and an earlier recovery time. Furthermore, stapled hemorrhoidectomy is associated with lower hemorrhoidal recurrence on long-term follow-up. DESIGN: A randomized prospective trial. Patients were blinded to the operation technique used. Follow-up occurred at 1 and 3 weeks and 12 months postoperatively. SETTING: A university hospital providing primary, secondary, and tertiary care. PATIENTS: Forty patients with second- and third-degree hemorrhoid disease were randomized to undergo either stapled or excision hemorrhoidectomy. Two patients were excluded. All patients were subject to a follow-up examination. INTERVENTIONS: Stapled hemorrhoidectomy (Longo technique) vs excision hemorrhoidectomy (Ferguson technique). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Operating time, postoperative pain (measured by the visual analog scale), hospital stay, histologic features, morbidity, defecation habit, continence, recovery time (return to work), and hemorrhoid recurrence at 1 year. RESULTS: Stapled vs excision hemorrhoidectomy was associated with a significantly reduced operating time (30 vs 43.25 minutes; P<.001), reduced postoperative pain scores (visual analog score) on the first 4 postoperative days (day 1: 2.7 vs 6.3; day 2: 1.7 vs 6.3; day 3: 0.8 vs 5.4; and day 4: 0.5 vs 4.8, where 0 indicates no pain, and 10, maximum pain; P < or = .001), and an earlier return to work (6.7 vs 20.7 days;P =.001). There were no differences for stapled vs excision hemorrhoidectomy in length of hospital stay (2.4 vs 2.1 days), complications (3 [15%] of 20 patients vs 5 [25%] of 20 patients), and recurrence rate (1 [5%] of 20 patients vs 1 [5%] of 20 patients). CONCLUSIONS: Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is associated with reduced postoperative pain, earlier recovery time and return to work, and a similar recurrence rate compared with the excision technique. Provided further clinical trials confirm these findings, stapled hemorrhoidectomy may become a future gold standard.