Efficacy of argon plasma coagulation for hemorrhagic chronic radiation proctitis / 肿瘤研究与临床

ABSTRACT

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of argon plasma coagulation (APC) in the treatment of patients with hemorrhagic chronic radiation proctitis (HCRP).Methods:The clinical data of 36 HCRP patients who received APC treatment in Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital between January 2017 and June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The severity of HCRP was assessed by using the Zinicola endoscopic score and the Vienna proctoscopy score. The elimination of rectal bleeding or occasional bloody stools that did not require further treatment within 6 months of the last APC treatment was considered to be the therapy success.Results:The median follow-up time was 1.63 years (0.85-2.68 years). There were 20 (55.6%) patients with severe HCRP according to the Zinicola endoscopic score. After APC treatment, 32 patients with HCRP obtained adequate rectal hemostasis, whereas 4 patients with severe HCRP still experienced rectal bleeding symptoms after APC treatment for several times. All patients received APC treatment for (2.7±1.0) times in total. The endoscopic scores of HCRP patients before and after APC treatment were (3.6±0.8) scores, (1.4± 1.1) scores, respectively; Vienna proctoscopy scores were (3.8±0.8) scores, (1.2±1.1) scores, respectively; and the differences were statistically significant ( t values were 22.37, 18.96; all P < 0.001). The hemoglobin levels of HCRP patients before and after APC treatment were (85±15) g/L, (100±17) g/L, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant ( t = 17.86, P < 0.001). Serious side effects including strictures, perforations, or fistulas and other severe complications related to APC therapy were not found. Conclusions:APC may be an effective and safe treatment option for patients with HCRP.