Evaluation of the efficacy and morbidity of radiofrequency thermocoagulation in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease.

INTRODUCTION

Grade III hemorrhoidal disease may require surgical treatment. Several minimally invasive techniques can be offered to the patient, particularly ligation of the hemorrhoidal arteries/mucopexy or even stapled hemorrhoidopexy. A technique of radiofrequency thermocoagulation of hemorrhoids has recently been introduced. The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy and early morbidity of this procedure.

METHODS

Data from successive patients undergoing radiofrequency thermocoagulation for grade II to IV hemorrhoidal disease between December 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively collated.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients, with a mean age of 53 years, underwent operation during the study period. The major indication was grade III hemorrhoidal disease in 95% of patients. More than 80% of patients underwent operation as an outpatient. Eighteen (24.3%) patients developed a postoperative complication within 30 days, of whom two (2.7%) required revisional surgery for rectal bleeding and severe anal pain, respectively. Seven (9.5%) patients were re-admitted to hospital and 18 (24.3%) had an unscheduled early return visit within 30 postoperative days. At three months following surgery, the anatomical and functional result was satisfactory in more than 93% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency hemorrhoidal thermocoagulation is an effective technique in the treatment of grade III hemorrhoidal disease. Despite a non-negligible rate of minor postoperative complications requiring an early consultation or re-hospitalisation, severe complications occurred in less than 3% of operated patients.