Longitudinal multiple rubber band ligation: an alternative method to treat mucosal prolapse of the anterior rectal wall.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to present a new approach for the treatment of mucosal prolapse of the anterior rectal wall using a multiple longitudinal rubber band ligation procedure.

METHODS

The therapeutic approach using multiple longitudinal rubber band ligations on anterior rectal wall was undertaken in 17 patients after failure of conventional medical treatment.

RESULTS

Double rubber band ligation was undertaken in seven patients and triple ligation in nine patients. In a median follow up of 12 months fourteen patients (87.5 percent) showed complete and persistent remission of symptoms. Two patients remained symptomatic and were treated by a second session of rubber band ligation which was successful in one of them. No complications occurred in this present series except in one patient with internal rectal prolapse patient who complained of persistent pain for seven days.

CONCLUSIONS

These encouraging results have suggested this method as an effective alternative in the relief of this usually very symptomatic disorder.