An update on surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Pathologic hemorrhoids are common among adults age 45-65. Hemorrhoids are characterized as internal or external, and grades 1-4 based on severity. The type and grade dictate treatment, with surgical treatment reserved for grades 3/4. The aim of this study is to compare clinical outcomes of various surgical treatments.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify randomized clinical trials that compare surgical treatments for grade 3/4 hemorrhoids. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was done using NetMetaXL and WinBUGS.

RESULTS

A total of 26 studies with 3137 participants and 14 surgical treatments for grade 3/4 hemorrhoids were included. Pain was less in patients with techniques such as laser (OR 0.34, CI 0.01-6.51), infrared photocoagulation (OR 0.38, CI 0.02-5.61), and stapling (OR 0.48, CI 0.19-1.25), compared to open and closed hemorrhoidectomies. There was less recurrence with Starion (OR 0.01, CI 0.00-0.46) and harmonic scalpel (OR 0.00, CI 0.00-0.49), compared to infrared photocoagulation and transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization. Fewer postoperative clinical complications were seen with infrared photocoagulation (OR 0.04, CI 0.00-2.54) and LigaSure (OR 0.16, CI 0.03-0.79), compared to suture ligation and open hemorrhoidectomy. With Doppler-guided (OR 0.26, CI 0.05-1.51) and stapled (OR 0.36, CI 0.15-0.84) techniques, patients return to work earlier when compared to open hemorrhoidectomy and laser.

CONCLUSION

There are multiple favorable techniques without a clear "gold standard" based on current literature. Open discussion should be had between patients and physicians to guide individualized care.