Results of 7302 stapled haemorrhoidectomy operations in a single centre: a seven-year review and follow-up questionnaire survey.

BACKGROUND

This study aims to evaluate the results of all 7302 stapled haemorrhoidectomy operations performed in a single centre.

METHOD: A retrospective review of all 7302 patients who underwent stapled haemorrhoidectomy at our department over seven years was conducted. The hospital database was reviewed for subsequent readmissions and re-operations. A questionnaire survey was also sent out to all the patients.

RESULTS

A total of 302 patients (4.1%) were admitted with post-operative bleeding and 281 stopped with conservative measures. Twenty one required surgical haemostasis. A total of 301 patients (4.1%) were admitted for an inability to void and 191 (2.6%) had true acute retention of urine, requiring catheterization. There were 124 patients (1.7%) admitted for pain, but all resolved with oral analgesia subsequently. Anal stricture requiring surgery occurred in only 86 patients (1.2%). Serious complications such as staple line dehiscence or anorectal sepsis occurred in seven patients. There were a total of 14 recurrences requiring readmission over this seven-year period, of which 12 were treated successfully with a second haemorrhoidectomy. A total of 1834 patients returned their questionnaire surveys and 95% of the patients reported complete resolution or improvement of their symptoms. Only 27 patients reported subsequent severe bleeding requiring medical attention.

CONCLUSION

Stapled haemorrhoidectomy is safe, and most patients are satisfied with the long-term outcome.