CO2 Laser Haemorrhoidectomy for Treatment of Grade IV Haemorrhoids

Abstract

Background: symptomatic haemorrhoids are a common problem. While many treatment options are available, none have shown clear superior results. Pain, recurrence rates and potential complications are the main considerations when choosing the optimal treatment for haemorrhoids. Methods: We evaluated post operative pain using a visual analogue at one and four weeks post operatively in patients undergoing Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy using CO 2 laser. We also recorded any unplanned re-presentations and complications during a 24 months study period. Results: There were 77 patient who underwent CO 2 laser haemorrhoidectomy during the study period. Post operative pain was low (mode=1, mean=3) in the majority of patients. Those who developed a complication had higher post operative pain scores at one week compared to those who did not. All patients were pain free at four week follow up. Conclusion: Overall we found CO 2 haemorrhoidectomy to be a safe procedure which is well tolerated in the vast majority of patients.