Manual dilatation of the anus and elastic band ligature: an effective short stay alternative to formal haemorrhoidectomy for prolapsing haemorrhoids.

Fifty patients with second or third degree haemorrhoids were treated by manual dilatation of the anus (MDA) and elastic band ligature under general anaesthesia. All patients had prolapsing haemorrhoids at presentation associated with bleeding in 46, and pain in 39. A final review by questionnaire was undertaken one to three years later, at which time 44 patients remained symptom-free. Forty-three had experienced only mild or moderate discomfort postoperatively. Mean time from operation to pursuing all normal activities was 10 days. MDA and elastic band ligature under GA is a simple, quick and effective alternative to haemorrhoidectomy in the treatment of second and third degree haemorrhoids.