Cryodestruction of haemorrhoids.

Thirty-seven cases of second and third degree haemorrhoids have been treated by cryosurgery. Although the number of cases treated is small and the follow-up is short, we are greatly encouraged by the early excellent results. It is a simple and effective procedure with minimal complications, and it is especially recommended for those patients who are medically unfit for general anaesthesia. The rapidity of this procedure combined with the painless operative and postoperative course enables the patient to leave hospital the next day. More cases with long-term follow-up are needed before adequate evaluation of this form of treatment can be made.