We have identified two risk factors (EBL and TOD) that are independently associated with duration of POI. Our data suggest that with the definition of abnormal prolonged postoperative ileus as the number of days above the 3rd quartile, an ileus greater than 6 days serves as a better clinical definition of prolonged POI than 3 days, the measure that has previously been suggested.

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Although not statistically significant, there was a trend that antibiotics and age >45 years may be protective against the formation of fistulae. Similarly, the data suggest that the presence of comorbidity may increase the risk of fistula formation. We are encouraged by this result and propose to conduct a larger randomized prospective study.

Hemorrhoids remain one of the most common colorectal complaints. They are defined as a pathologic engorgement of the submucosal vascular plexus. Although they are often asymptomatic, hemorrhoids may cause bleeding, prolapse and, less commonly, pain. This review gives an update on various treatment options for symptomatic hemorrhoids, which include conservative treatments, office interventions, and surgical procedures, depending on the individual constellation of symptoms. Objective findings and expectations are also addressed. Recent advances (eg, stapled hemorrhoidectomy and use of alternate energy sources) are emphasized, and treatment under special circumstances (HIV, pregnancy, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver disease) is outlined.

No abstract