Initial experience with stapled anoplasty in the operative management of prolapsing hemorrhoids and mucosal rectal prolapse

Background: Excisional hemorrhoidectomy has remained the standard procedure in the operative management of hemorrhoids. Innovations in surgical technique have recently been introduced to try to decrease the pain associated with it. Stapled anoplasty has had promising early results in this regard. The aim of this study was to determine the ease or difficulty in introducing this new procedure, its efficacy, safety, and pain profile. Data sources: Nineteen patients underwent stapled anoplasty and were followed up from 8 weeks to 6 months postoperatively. Data were accrued through clinical evaluation and patient questionnaires. Conclusions: Seventy-two percent of patients had good to excellent results. There were no significant complications. Eighteen patients underwent surgery in an ambulatory setting and were discharged from hospital in a mean of 189 minutes. The procedure is safe and easily mastered. The staple line should be placed precisely at 3.5 to 4 cm from the dentate line to ensure greater efficacy. (C) 2002 Excerpta Medica, Inc. All rights reserved.