Septic complications after treatment of haemorrhoids

Background: Recent reports of serious sepsis following stapled haemorrhoidectomy have raised concerns about the appropriate treatment of haemorrhoidal disease. Methods: A Medline search was undertaken for reports of sepsis following the commonly practised conservative and surgical treatments of haemorrhoids. Results: Published accounts of significant septic complications after injection sclerotherapy, rubberband ligation, cryotherapy, open and closed haemorrhoidectomy, and stapled haemorrhoidectomy are discussed. This is supplemented by the authors' own experiences of stapled haemorrhoidectomy. Conclusion: Septic complications following both conservative and surgical treatment of haemorrhoids are rare but may be catastrophic. Immunological compromise poses an additional risk for many treatment modalities. The technique of stapled haemorrhoidectomy should be learned diligently to avoid septic complications.