Effectiveness of laser hemorrhoidoplasty in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease.

INTRODUCTION: Minimally invasive techniques still continue to maintain their popularity in hemorrhoidal disease. In this study, we aimed to present the symptomatic recovery and recurrence rates, post-operative pain levels, and complication rates of patients treated with the laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) method in our clinic. METHODS: The data of patients who underwent LHP due to Grades 2, 3, and 4 internal hemorrhoidal disease in our clinic were reviewed retrospectively. The patients enrolled in the study were followed for at least 6 months (6 months, 1 year, and 2 years) and their results were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 103 patients were included in the study. Seventy-five (72.8%) of them were male and the mean age was 41.6 ± 13.6 years. The mean operation time was 17.9 ± 5.2 min and minor complications developed in 3 (2.9%) patients postoperatively. Mean time to return to normal daily life was 2.17 (1-11) days. Recurrence developed in 16 (17.6%) patients with Grades 2 and 3 disease and in 6 (50%) of 12 patients with Grade 4 disease (p = 0.019). CONCLUSION: LHP is a popular procedure which is effective in selected patient groups with acceptable recurrence rates.

OBJETIVO: Presentar las tasas de recurrencia y recuperación sintomática, los niveles de dolor posoperatorio y las tasas de complicaciones de los pacientes tratados con hemorroidoplastia láser en nuestra clínica. MÉTODO: Los datos de los pacientes que se sometieron a hemorroidoplastia láser debido a enfermedad hemorroidal interna de grados 2, 3 y 4 en nuestra clínica se revisaron retrospectivamente. Los pacientes incluidos en el estudio fueron seguidos durante al menos 6 meses (6 meses, 1 año y 2 años) y se analizaron sus desenlaces. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron en el estudio 103 pacientes, de los cuales 75 (72.8%) eran de sexo masculino. La edad media fue de 41.6 ± 13.6 años. El tiempo operatorio medio fue de 17.9 ± 5.2 minutos. Se desarrollaron complicaciones menores en 3 (2.9%) pacientes en el posoperatorio. El tiempo medio de reincorporación a la vida diaria normal fue de 2.17 (1-11) días. La recurrencia se observó en 16 (17.6 %) pacientes con enfermedad de grados 2 y 3, y en 6 (50%) de 12 pacientes con enfermedad de grado 4 (p = 0.019). CONCLUSIONES: La hemorroidoplastia láser es un procedimiento popular que es efectivo en grupos de pacientes seleccionados, con tasas de recurrencia aceptables.

Emergency surgical treatment for active bleeding and anemia in patients with hemorrhoidal disease.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of the study is to describe the clinical and surgical characteristics of patients with hemorrhoidal disease (HD), anemia, and active bleeding in need of urgent surgery. METHODS: It is a descriptive, retrospective study of 510 patients between 2015 and 2019. Male and female patients diagnosed with HD. The records of these patients were reviewed, and we identified those who underwent emergency surgery due to active bleeding, anemia, shock, and other clinical problems. Statistical analysis was carried out with the SPSS version 24 software. RESULTS: Fifty-three (10.3%) patients met the criteria for presenting active hemorrhoidal bleeding at the time of review and clinical and biochemical data of anemia. Patients presented a mean hemoglobin of 7.5 g/dl. The most frequent degree of HD was Grade II. The treatment received in 92.5% of the cases was hemorrhoidectomy with the Ferguson technique; in 5.7% (3), a hemorrhoidectomy was performed with an advanced energy device, and 1.9% (1) underwent the Milligan-Morgan technique. CONCLUSIONS: Emergency hemorrhoidectomy is the treatment of choice for patients with severe active bleeding from HD.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El propósito del estudio es describir las características clínicas y quirúrgicas de los pacientes con enfermedad hemorroidal, sangrado activo y anemia con necesidad de cirugía. METODOLOGÍA: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de 510 pacientes de ambos sexos diagnosticados con enfermedad hemorroidal entre 2015 y 2019. Se revisaron los expedientes de los pacientes sometidos a cirugía urgente con presencia de sangrado, anemia, choque y otros problemas clínicos. El análisis estadístico fue realizado con el software SPSS version 24. RESULTADOS: El 10.3% (53) de los pacientes fueron diagnosticados con sangrado hemorroidal activo al momento de la revisión y con datos clínicos y bioquímicos de anemia. El promedio de hemoglobina de estos fue de 7.5 g/dl. La enfermedad hemorroidal grado II fue la más frecuente. Se realizó hemorroidectomia tipo Ferguson en el 92.5% (49) de los casos; 5.7% (3) fueron operados con energía avanzada y solo 1.9% (1) con la técnica Milligan-Morgan. CONCLUSIONES: La hemorroidectomia de urgencia es el tratamiento de elección en el sangrado activo severo por enfermedad hemorroidal.

A new theory on the cause of anal fissure - impaction theory / Uma nova teoria sobre a causa da fissura anal - teoria da impactação

ABSTRACT The internal hemorrhoid, rectal tumor, hypertrophic anal papilla, and secret fecal mass are regarded as the blocks embedded in the rectum. The above blocks hinder defecation, which will inevitably lead to excessive opening of the anal caliber. Once the limit is exceeded, the skin of the anal canal will tear and form anal fissure. Based on the study of historical evolution, hypothesis reasoning, clinical verification and comparison with other theories, a new concept of anal fissure etiology-impaction theory is proposed. The so-called impaction theory refers to the impaction (various primary lesions) in anorectum, which hinders defecation. When defecating, the anal canal expands beyond the limit, and the whole layer of anal canal skin splits, that is to say, anal fissure is formed.

RESUMO A hemorroida interna, o tumor retal, a papila anal hipertrófica e a massa fecal secreta são considerados os blocos incrustados no reto. Os bloqueios acima impedem a defecação, o que inevitavelmente levará a uma abertura excessiva do calibre anal. Uma vez que o limite é excedido, a pele do canal anal rasga e forma uma fissura anal. Com base no estudo da evolução histórica, raciocínio de hipóteses, verificação clínica e comparação com outras teorias, um novo conceito de etiologia da fissura anal - a teoria da impactação - é proposto. A chamada teoria da impactação refere-se à impactação (várias lesões primárias) no anorreto, o que dificulta a defecação. Na defecação, o canal anal se expande além do limite e toda a camada da pele do canal anal rasga, ou seja, forma-se a fissura anal.

The role of platelet parameters in thrombosed hemorrhoids / O papel dos parâmetros plaquetários nas hemorróidas trombosadas

ABSTRACT Objectives: The most common disease of anus is hemorrhoids. The definition of external hemorrhoids suggests the acute phase, often characterized by thrombosis or edema. External thrombosed hemorrhoid is a specific complication. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of different platelet parameters in the presence of internal or external thrombosed hemorrhoids. Methods: Patients examined were divided into two groups: Group 1: Thrombosed hemorrhoids group (THG), Group 2: Hemorrhoidectomy group (HG). Demographic and clinical data were identified. In terms of laboratory findings, preoperative hemoglobin, hematocrit and all platelet parameters were recorded. Main results: Fifty-two patients in THG, and 75 patients in HG were included in the study. In female sex and young age group, the risk of developing thrombosed hemorrhoids was statistically significant (p= 0.029, p= 0.039, respectively). When the platelet parameters were evaluated; while PDW was higher in THG (p= 0.008), any significant difference could not found in all other values (p> 0.05). Thrombosed hemorrhoids were mostly (59.25%) found to be located in the left laterodorsal part of anus. Conclusion: Internal hemorrhoids are frequently seen in the ages of 45-65 with similar rates in both sexes, while external thrombosed hemorrhoids occur at a younger age (<45) and more often in women. Comparing in terms of platelet indexes, PDW value was found to be significantly higher in THG. In young people, thrombosed hemorrhoids may develop more frequently, as the connective tissue that forms the anal pads is not loose enough to form an internal hemorrhoid, as more seen in older patients.

RESUMO Objetivos: A doença anal mais comum são as hemorróidas. A definição de hemorróidas externas sugere a fase aguda, muitas vezes caracterizada por trombose ou edema. A hemorroida externa trombosada é uma complicação específica. Neste estudo, objetivamos investigar os efeitos de diferentes parâmetros plaquetários na presença de hemorróidas trombosadas internas ou externas. Métodos: Os pacientes examinados foram divididos em dois grupos: Grupo 1, Grupo de Hemorróidas Trombosadas (GHT); Grupo 2, Grupo de hemorroidectomia (GH). Os dados demográficos e clínicos foram identificados. Em termos de achados laboratoriais, a hemoglobina pré-operatória, o hematócrito e todos os parâmetros plaquetários foram registrados. Resultados principais: Cinquenta e dois pacientes em GHT e 75 pacientes em GH foram incluídos no estudo. No sexo feminino e na faixa etária jovem, o risco de desenvolver hemorróidas trombosadas foi estatisticamente significativo (p = 0,029, p = 0,039, respectivamente). Os parâmetros plaquetários avaliados mostraram que, enquanto a Amplitude de Distribuição de Plaquetas (PDW, do inglês platelet distribution width) foi maior no GHT (p = 0,008), nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada para todos os outros valores (p > 0,05). A maioria das hemorróidas trombosadas (59,25%) localizava-se na região lateral-dorsal esquerda do ânus. Conclusão: As hemorróidas internas são frequentemente vistas nas idades de 45 a 65 anos com taxas semelhantes em ambos os sexos, enquanto as hemorróidas externas trombosadas ocorrem em uma idade mais jovem (<45) e mais frequentemente em mulheres. Comparando em termos de índices de plaquetas, foi observado que o valor de PDW foi significativamente maior no GHT. Em pessoas jovens, as hemorróidas trombosadas podem se desenvolver com mais frequência, pois o tecido conjuntivo que forma as almofadas anais não é flácido o suficiente para formar uma hemorroida interna, como ocorre com mais frequência em pacientes mais velhos.

Anorectal diseases in patients with Antiphospholipid syndrome: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Hemorrhoid disease (HD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints worldwide, affecting 4.4% of the general population in the United States. Since antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) may lead to intra-abdominal thrombosis, one may expect that this condition can impact the risk for HD development. Additionally, as APS patients are more prone to thrombosis and treatment with anticoagulants may increase risk of bleeding, one may also infer that rates of HD complications may be higher in this scenario. Nevertheless, no data in these regards have been published until now. The objective of the present study is to evaluate frequency of HD and describe its complications rates in antiphospholipid syndrome APS patients. METHODS: We consecutively invited patients who fulfilled APS criteria to undergo proctological examination. After examination, patients were divided in two groups, based on the presence of HD, and compared regarding different clinical manifestations and antiphospholipid profile. We performed the analysis of the data, using chi-square and Mann Whitney U when applicable and considering a significance level of 0.05. Multivariate regression analysis included age and variables with p < 0.10 in the bivariate analysis. RESULTS: Forty-one APS patients agreed to undergo proctological examination. All were female and overall median age was 43 (36-49). Seventeen (41.4%) patients were diagnosed with HD, with the following frequency distribution: 7 internal (41.2%), 4 external (23.5%) and 5 mixed hemorrhoids (29.4%). Of the internal hemorrhoids, 5 patients were classified as grade I (71.4%), 1 grade II (14.3%), and 1 grade IV (14.3%). Prior gestation (p = 0.067) and constipation (p = 0.067) correlated with a higher frequency of HD. In multivariate analysis, constipation remained as an important risk factor (OR 3.92,CI95% 1.03-14.2,p = 0.037). Five out of 17 patients (29.4%) reported anal bleeding, but it did not correlate with warfarin dose (p = 0.949). Surgical treatment was indicated for 10 patients (58.8%). Other anorectal findings were anal fissure, plicoma, condyloma and one chlamydial retitis. CONCLUSION: We found an unexpected high frequency of hemorrhoids in APS patients, with a great proportion requiring surgical treatment.

ENDOSCOPIC BAND LIGATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF HEMORRHOIDAL DISEASE.

BACKGROUND: There are several therapeutic options for symptomatic hemorrhoids, from hygienic and dietary measures to conventional surgery. The best technique adopted for alternative and non-surgical treatment for intermediate grade (II and III) hemorrhoidal disease is rubber band ligation. More recently, the technique has been used with the aid of a gastroscope and a kit of elastic rubber bands for esophageal varices. This technique was called Endoscopic Rubber Band Ligation of hemorrhoids (ERBL). OBJECTIVE: The objective is Compare the results and the incidence of the immediate and late complications in patients undergoing ERBL. The satisfaction with the treatment of patients undergoing different number of rubber band ligatures were also analyzed. METHODS: This is a cohort study included patients undergoing ERBL from 2007 to 2014 at the hospital. The incidence of early and late complications and the satisfaction with the treatment of patients undergoing until two ligatures and patients undergoing three or more ligatures in the same procedure were compared. RESULTS: The study included 116 patients. The most frequently reported symptom was anal bleeding (n=72; 62.1%). The number of rubber band ligatures performed during the ERBL procedure varied from one to six; 84 (72,4%) patients had three or more rubber band ligatures performed during the procedure. No significant associations were observed between the incidence of early or late complications and satisfaction with ERBL among the group subjected until two rubber band ligatures or three or more rubber band ligatures. CONCLUSION: The endoscopic elastic ligation method proved to be a feasible, safe and efficient for the treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease grades II and III. The technique had moderate rates of immediate and late complications, but most of the complications are considered of low magnitude, easily resolved and without clinical repercussions, no matter how much ligations were performed in the same procedure.

A prospective study of efficacy and safety of rubber band ligation in the treatment of Grade II and III hemorrhoids - a western Indian experience / Estudo prospectivo da eficácia e segurança da ligadura elástica no tratamento de hemorroidas de Grau II e III - uma experiência na Índia ocidental

ABSTRACT Background: Hemorrhoids are one of the most frequent diseases of the anal region with high prevalence involving all age groups. Multiple treatment options exist with none being perfect. Rubber band ligation of hemorrhoids is a non-operative treatment which can be performed on outpatient basis. Objective: The study was undertaken to determine efficacy of banding in treatment of Grade II and III hemorrhoids and to follow-up patients treated by banding to evaluate for symptomatic relief, recurrence and complications. Study design: A prospective, interventional study with clearance from the institutional ethics committee was undertaken over the period of 2 years in a tertiary referral center with a sample size of 60. Result: Out of 60 patients, 41 patients (68.30%) had Grade II and 19 patients (31.7%) had Grade III hemorrhoids. At first follow up, success rate for Grade II hemorrhoids was 85% (35/41) as compared to 21% (4/19) in Grade III. The unsuccessful 20 patients were re-banded, however only 2 of them responded to procedure. At the end of 6 weeks, 36 patients with Grade II hemorrhoids (88%) were cured. Failure rate was higher for Grade III hemorrhoids (68.42%, n = 13). Success rate was 86.6% for single hemorrhoid. There were no major complications. Anemia reverted significantly with successful band ligation. Conclusion: Rubber band ligation is a simple, safe and effective method for treating symptomatic second and third degree hemorrhoids as an outpatient procedure. It gives better results for Grade II and single hemorrhoids. Recurrence rate after successful band ligation is low.

RESUMO Background: As hemorroidas são uma das doenças mais frequentes da região anal, com alta prevalência envolvendo todas as faixas etárias. Existem várias opções de tratamento, sendo que nenhuma é perfeita. A ligadura elástica de hemorroidas é um tratamento conservador que pode ser realizado em ambulatório. Objetivo: O estudo foi realizado para determinar a eficácia da ligadura no tratamento de hemorroidas de Grau II e III e para acompanhamento dos pacientes tratados por ligaduras para avaliar o alívio sintomático, a recorrência e as complicações. Design do estudo: Estudo prospectivo e intervencionista com liberação do comitê de ética institucional foi realizado durante o período de 2 anos em um centro de referência terciário com um tamanho de amostra de 60. Resultado: Dos 60 pacientes, 41 (68,30%) apresentaram hemorroidas de Grau II e 19 (31,7%) de Grau III. No primeiro seguimento, a taxa de sucesso para hemorroidas de grau II foi de 85% (35/41), em comparação com 21% (4/19) no Grau III. Os 20 pacientes sem sucesso foram novamente submetidos a ligadura, mas apenas 2 deles responderam ao procedimento. Ao final de 6 semanas, 36 pacientes com hemorroidas de Grau II (88%) foram curados. A taxa de falha foi maior para as hemorroidas de grau III (68,42%, n = 13). A taxa de sucesso foi de 86,6% para hemorroida única. Não houve grandes complicações. A anemia reverteu significativamente com ligadura elástica bem-sucedida. Conclusão: A ligadura elástica é um método simples, seguro e eficaz para o tratamento de hemorroidas sintomáticas de segundo e terceiro graus, como procedimento ambulatorial. Ela promove melhores resultados para hemorroidas de Grau II e únicas. A taxa de recorrência após ligadura elástica bem-sucedida é baixa.

Terapéutica de la fluxión hemorroidal / Therapeutics of hemorrhoidal fluxion

Introducción: La fluxión hemorroidal es una complicación severa de la enfermedad hemorroidaria. Combinando el tratamiento conservador con el quirúrgico, puede resultar en una cirugía menos amputativa. Objetivos: Analizar los resultados en pacientes con fluxión hemorroidal y evaluar los beneficios del tratamiento combinado médico-quirúrgico. Pacientes y Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de 35 hemorroidectomías por fluxión, operados entre mayo de 2010 y mayo de 2015. Resultados: El sexo masculino fue más frecuente con 68,5%, con una proporción hombre/mujer de 2,2 a 1. El rango etario general varió desde los 20 a 75 años. El motivo de consulta más frecuente fue la tumoración anal en 29 (82,8%). En 22 pacientes (65,7%) que se les completó más de 48hs de tratamiento médico, se le denominó grupo A, a quienes se realizaron 2 Buie bilateral (9%), 7 Hemi Buie con S/A asociada (31,8%), 10 Salmon Allingham (45,4%) y 3 Ferguson (13,6%). Mientras que los restantes 13 (31,4%) fueron denominados como grupo B, donde existieron 2 Buie bilateral (15,3%), 4 Hemi Buie con S/A asociada (30,7%), 5 Salmon Allingham (38,4%) y 2 Ferguson (15,3%). La estadía hospitalaria varió en el rango de 2 a 7 días, con una media de 2,8 días, no hubo diferencia en los grupos de pacientes. Conclusión: Los resultados son buenos, sin recidivas o secuelas. El tratamiento combinado podría beneficiar reduciendo la magnitud de la cirugía.

Introduction: The hemorrhoidal fluxion is a severe complication of hemorrhoidal disease. Combining conservative surgical treatment, it may result in a less amputative surgery. Objectives: Analyzing the results in patients with hemorrhoidal fluxion and evaluate the benefits of combined medical-surgical treatment. Patients and Methods: The retrospective observational study of 35 hemorrhoidectomies by fluxion operated between May 2010 and May 2015. Results: Males were more frequent with 68.5%, with a male / female ratio of 2.2 to 1. The general age range varied from 20 to 75 years. The most frequent symptom was the anal tumor in 29 (82.8%). Group A was conformed by 22 patients (65.7%), who underwent 48 hours of medical treatment, and after that the surgical treatment: Buie in 2 (9%), 7 Hemi Buie were performed using S / A associated (31.8 %), 10 Salmon Allingham (45.4%) and 3 Ferguson (13.6%). The remaining 13 (31.4%) were designated as Group B, where there were 2 Buie (15.3%), 4 Hemi Buie with S / A associated (30.7%), 5 Salmon Allingham (38, 4%) and 2 Ferguson (15.3%). Hospital stay varied from 2 to 7 days, with a medium 2.8 days. There was no difference between both groups. Conclution: The results are good, without recurrence or sequelae. The combination therapy could benefit by reducing the extent of the surgery.

Vigencia y utilidad de la operación de Buie modificada en el tratamiento del prolapso hemorroidal / Validity and usefulness of the modified Buie operation in the treatment of hemorrhoidal prolapse

Introducción: La cirugía del prolapso hemorroidal puede ser controversial, en particular cuando éste es circunferencial o en corona; diversos procedimientos han sido propuestos, algunos de ellos con complicaciones difíciles de solucionar. La técnica de Buie modificada puede resolver esta patología evitando las mismas. Objetivo: Evaluar prospectivamente los resultados obtenidos en la cirugía del prolapso hemorroidal mediante el empleo de la técnica de Buie modificada, sola o combinada con otra técnica. Diseño: Prospectivo observacional. Pacientes y Método: 37 pacientes consecutivos, operados entre agosto de 2007 y mayo de 2014, por prolapso hemorroidal con la técnica de Buie modificada, sola o combinada con otra técnica. Resultados: La edad promedio de la muestra fue 46,48; de los cuales el 62,16% fueron de sexo masculino; todos los pacientes eran portadores de un prolapso hemorroidal parcial o circunferencial o en corona. El sangrado ocasional fue el síntoma más frecuente (75,67%), seguido de la humedad perianal (67,57%). La técnica de Buie modificada se llevó a cabo solo en el 32,43% y combinado con la técnica de Ferguson en el 67,57%. El promedio de días de internación fue de 1,11. Cinco pacientes evidenciaron un sangrado escaso y de presentación irregular siendo la única complicación postoperatoria (13,5%). En el control a 30 días todos los enfermos tuvieron una adecuada cicatrización. No se constataron estenosis anal o ano húmedo por ectropión mucoso. Conclusiones: La técnica de Buie modificada sola o combinada resultó un procedimiento adecuado y efectivo para el tratamiento del prolapso hemorroidal con una estadía sanatorial corta, bajo costo y un índice de complicaciones postoperatorias más que aceptables.

Introduction: Prolapsed hemorrhoid surgery can be controversial, in particular when the surgery involves prolapsed hemorrhoids partial or in “crown”. Several procedures have been proposed, some of which have provided with complications difficult to solve. Buie’s modified technique can resolve this pathology, preventing these complications. Objective: To assess prospectively the acquired results obtained from prolapsed hemorrhoid surgery after Buie’s modified technique, alone or in combination with another technique. Design: Prospective observational. Patients and Method: 37 consecutive patients underwent surgery after Buie’s modified technique alone, or combined with another technique, between August 2007 to May, 2014. Results: The average mean age of the patients was 46,48; from which 62, 16% were males; all carried partial or in “crown” prolapsed hemorrhoids. Occasional bleeding was the most frequent symptom (75, 67%), followed by perianal moisture (67,57%). The Buie’s modified technique was performed alone in 32,43% and in combination with the Ferguson technique in 67, 57%. The average days of patients admission was 1,11. Five patients showed scanty and irregular bleeding, this being the only post-operative complication (13,5%). After a 30-day checkup, all patients presented reasonable scaring. No evidence was found for anal stenosis or moist anus by mucosal ectropion. Conclusions: The Buie’s modified technique, alone or combined, turned out to be the most effective and proper procedure for the treatment of prolapsed hemorrhoids; it is inexpensive, besides the patient is admitted to the hospital for a short period of time with a more acceptable index of post-operative complications.

Recombinant streptokinase suppositories in the treatment of acute haemorrhoidal disease. Multicentre randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial (THERESA-2).

AIM: A four-arm multicentre randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial was undertaken to assess the effect and safety of suppositories containing recombinant streptokinase (rSK) at two dose levels (100,000 IU and 200,000 IU) with sodium salicylate (SS) compared with placebo and SS for the treatment of acute haemorrhoidal disease. METHOD: Patients with acute symptoms of haemorrhoids were randomized to four treatment groups: (I) placebo, (II) SS, (III) SS + rSK 100,000 IU and (IV) SS + rSK 200,000 IU per suppository. Inpatient treatment was by four suppositories given every 6 h to discharge at 24 h. Evaluations were made at the time of discharge (24 h) and at 3, 5 and 20 days later. The main end-point was the degree of relief of pain, oedema and reduction in the size of the lesion by 90% on day 5. Adverse events and the occurrence of anti-SK antibodies were also determined. RESULTS: Eighty patients were included. Respective response rates in the four groups were 16%, 30%, 25% and 52%. In the last group there was a significant difference (36.8%) compared with control (95% CI 7.0-58.4%). The time to response was significantly shorter (median 5 days) in the 200,000 IU rSK group with respect to the others. There were no adverse events attributable to the treatment. No increase in anti-SK antibodies was detected 20 days after treatment. CONCLUSION: Suppositories with 200,000 IU rSK showed a significant improvement in symptoms of acute haemorrhoids, with an adequate safety profile.

Colonoscopy in Central Jamaica: results and implications / La colonoscopía en Jamaica Central: resultados e implicaciones

The aim of this report was to determine the outcome of all patients subjected to colonoscopy at an outpatient medical facility in central Jamaica. A copy of the colonoscopy report of each consecutive patient during the period March 2007 to April 2011 was entered into a database and analysed. One thousand two hundred and fifty patients were identified with a mean age of 60 years and 56.5% were female. The most common indication for colonoscopy was bleeding (28%) but constipation (15%) and screening (11%) were also important. Caecal intubation was achieved in 96% of the group. While 30% of the group had normal findings, 32% had diverticulosis and 23% had haemorrhoids; importantly 10% had carcinomas and 11 % had adenomas. Adenomas were detected in 13% of the screened patients. The most important predictor ofan abnormal colonoscopy was a history ofbleeding. The perforation rate was 0.24% with no perforations occurring in the latter 650 cases.

El objetivo de este reporte fue determinar la evolución clínica de todos los pacientes sometidos a colonoscopía en una clínica de consulta externa en Jamaica central. Una copia del reporte de la colonoscopía de cada paciente consecutivo durante el periodo de marzo de 2007 a abril de 2011 fue introducida en la base de datos, y luego analizada. Se identificaron un total de mil doscientos cincuenta pacientes con edad promedio de 60 años, de los cuales 56.5% eran hembras. La indicación más común para la colonoscopía fue el sangramiento (28%) pero el estreñimiento (15%) y el tamizaje (11%) fueron también importantes. La intubación cecal se logró en el 96% del grupo. Mientras que el 30% del grupo tuvo resultados normales, el 32% presentó diverticulosis y el 23% tenia hemorroides. Aún más importante: 10% tenían carcinomas y 11% tenían adenomas. Se detectaron adenomas en 13% de los pacientes tamizados. El predictor más importante de una colonoscopía anormal fue una historia de sangramiento. La tasa de perforación fue 0.24% sin que se presentaran perforaciones en los últimos 650 casos.

Colonoscopy in central Jamaica: results and implications.

The aim of this report was to determine the outcome of all patients subjected to colonoscopy at an outpatient medical facility in central Jamaica. A copy of the colonoscopy report of each consecutive patient during the period March 2007 to April 2011 was entered into a database and analysed. One thousand two hundred and fifty patients were identified with a mean age of 60 years and 56.5% were female. The most common indication for colonoscopy was bleeding (28%) but constipation (15%) and screening (11%) were also important. Caecal intubation was achieved in 96% of the group. While 30% of the group had normal findings, 32% had diverticulosis and 23% had haemorrhoids; importantly 10% had carcinomas and 11% had adenomas. Adenomas were detected in 13% of the screened patients. The most important predictor of an abnormal colonoscopy was a history of bleeding. The perforation rate was 0.24% with no perforations occurring in the latter 650 cases.

Tratamento da doença hemorroidária com ligadura elástica: estudo prospectivo com 59 pacientes / Rubber band ligation for the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: prospective study with 59 patients

A ligadura elástica (LE) é considerada um método minimamente invasivo para o tratamento da doença hemorroidária (DH) e apresenta vantagens em relação à hemorroidectomia, como: simplicidade de execução e realização ambulatorial sem o emprego de anestesia. Trata-se de um método eficaz, principalmente nos portadores de DH grau II. Porém, apresenta complicações, sendo as mais frequentes: dor, tenesmo, hematoquezia e retenção urinária. Alguns trabalhos mostram complicações mais graves, como sangramentos vultosos que necessitaram de hemotransfusão. Assim, este trabalho avaliou a eficácia e a morbidade do tratamento da DH pelo método da LE. Foi um estudo prospectivo, com 59 pacientes. Destes, cinco (8,5 por cento) eram portadores de DH grau I, 33 (55,9 por cento) de DH grau II e 21 (35,6 por cento) de DH grau III. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos pelo menos a duas sessões. Nas 135 sessões realizadas, encontramos: hematoquezia em 62 (45,9 por cento), dor intensa em 39 (28,9 por cento), sintomas vagais em 10 (7,4 por cento) e pseudoestrangulamento em um (0,7 por cento) sessão. A taxa de cura do prolapso hemorroidário entre os portadores de DH grau II foi de 87,9 por cento e entre aqueles com DH grau III, de 76,2 por cento. O tratamento da DH pelo método da ligadura elástica mostrou-se seguro e com boa taxa de cura.

Rubber band ligation (RB) is considered a minimally invasive method for the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease (HD) and has advantages in relation to hemorrhoidectomy whereby: simplicity of execution, outpatient realization and no need of anesthesia. It is an effective method, especially in the HD grade II. However, shows complications, and the most frequents are: anal pain, tenesmus, hematochezia and urinary retention. Some studies have shown severe complications as major bleeding that needs blood transfusion. Thus, this study evaluated the effectiveness and the morbidity of the treatment of HD by the method of RB. It was a prospective study with 59 patients. Five (8,5 percent) patients had HD graded in the first degree, 33 (55,9 percent) in the second degree and 21 (35,6 percent) in the third. All patients were submitted to at least two sessions. In the 135 sessions performed, we found: hematochezia in 62 (45.9 percent), severe pain in 39 (28.9 percent), vagal symptoms in 10 (7.4 percent) and pseudostrangulation in 1 (0.7 percent) session. The cure rate of hemorrhoidal prolapse among patients with HD grade II was 87.9 percent and among those with HD grade III, 76.2 percent. The treatment of HD by the method of RB proved to be safe and with good cure rate.

[Leukoplakia of the anal verge with bleeding hemorrhoids. A case report]. / Leucoplasia del borde anal con hemorroides sangrantes. Informe de un caso.

We present a case of a 45-year-old patient who reported bleeding hemorrhoids. He had grade II hemorrhoids and was found to have a circumferential leukoplakic lesion at the anal verge. The patient had no symptoms of leukoplakia. The hemorrhoids were ablated with an Ellman radiowave device. Histological findings of the incised lesion from the verge showed hyperkeratosis and acanthosis extending cephalad from the anal verge to the dentate line. Follow-up after 5 years revealed no evidence of dysplastic changes in the leukoplakic lesion. Because of the varied opinions regarding the fate of leukoplakia of the anal canal, patients should be followed carefully to detect any malignant transformation of the lesion.

Las afecciones proctológicas del General San Martín / General San Martín proctological disorders

El General San Martín estuvo postrado en cama desde fines de mayo hasta principios de julio de 1819. El viajero inglés Samuel Haigh que lo visitó dejó constancia del fuerte compromiso de su estado general. En su correspondencia San Martín refiere que padecía por ese entonces una "fistola producida por unas almorranas agangrenadas". Dado que las hemorroides no se complican con fístula, suponemos que el cuadro proctológico agudo habría sido producido por un absceso perianal. Apoyamos esta especulación en: 1) el gran compromiso del estado general que atribuimos a la sepsis, y 2) la referencia a la fístula, que interpretamos como la evacuación espontánea del absceso.(AU)

General San Martin was confined in bed, from the end of May to the beginning of July of 1819, tired and exhausted. The English traveller Samuel Haigh, who visit him, wrote about San Martins seriously affected general condition. In his mail, San Martín told he was suffering from "fistula produced by gangrenous hemorrhoids". We know that hemorrhoids dont complicate with fistula, and suppose that his proctologic acute illness could be related to a perianal abscess. Our speculation is supported by: 1) San Martins poor general condition, which we believe secondary to sepsis, and 2) the idea he had about a fistula, which we think was a spontaneous evacuation of an perianal abscess.(AU)

Las afecciones proctológicas del General San Martín / General San Martín proctological disorders

El General San Martín estuvo postrado en cama desde fines de mayo hasta principios de julio de 1819. El viajero inglés Samuel Haigh que lo visitó dejó constancia del fuerte compromiso de su estado general. En su correspondencia San Martín refiere que padecía por ese entonces una "fistola producida por unas almorranas agangrenadas". Dado que las hemorroides no se complican con fístula, suponemos que el cuadro proctológico agudo habría sido producido por un absceso perianal. Apoyamos esta especulación en: 1) el gran compromiso del estado general que atribuimos a la sepsis, y 2) la referencia a la fístula, que interpretamos como la evacuación espontánea del absceso.

General San Martin was confined in bed, from the end of May to the beginning of July of 1819, tired and exhausted. The English traveller Samuel Haigh, who visit him, wrote about San Martin’s seriously affected general condition. In his mail, San Martín told he was suffering from "fistula produced by gangrenous hemorrhoids". We know that hemorrhoids don’t complicate with fistula, and suppose that his proctologic acute illness could be related to a perianal abscess. Our speculation is supported by: 1) San Martin’s poor general condition, which we believe secondary to sepsis, and 2) the idea he had about a fistula, which we think was a spontaneous evacuation of an perianal abscess.

Death resulting from fournier gangrene secondary to thrombosis of very large hemorrhoids: report of a case.

A 53-year-old male was admitted with a two-day history of abdominal pain, anal bleeding, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and mental confusion. A diagnosis of thrombosis of very large hemorrhoids (Grade 4) was made. On the day of admission, he underwent an exploring laparotomy followed by abdominoperineal resection. The peritoneal cavity was filled with pus and blood clots. Because rectal necrosis was involved, sigmoid colostomy was imperative. Twenty-eight hours after surgery, the patient demonstrated signs of soft-tissue perineal necrosis associated with progressive pain and fever. He developed a rapidly progressive gangrene of the lower limbs and scrotum followed by acute renal and respiratory failure, and he died of sepsis. At autopsy, the cadaver showed jaundice and a large gangrene of the perineum and lower limbs. The internal organs showed features secondary to sepsis complications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first autopsy study of a patient who died because of complications of hemorrhoids.