One year follow up of a randomized trial comparing Ligasure with open haemorrhoidectomy

Abstract

Background: Ligasure haemorrhoidectomy is an effective treatment for prolapsing haemorrhoids, however, concerns exist regarding potential damage to the anal sphincters.

Methods: Patients previously included into a randomized trial comparing open and Ligasure haemorrhoidectomy were contacted by postal questionnaire to evaluate their overall satisfaction and continence at 12 months post operatively.

Results: Thirteen patients who underwent open and 17 who underwent Ligasure haemorrhoidectomy were evaluated. Three patients from the open group and 2 from the Ligasure group were unhappy with the result (P = 0.37) and minor incontinence was reported in 5 Ligasure and 2 open patients (P = 0.42).

Conclusion: Patient satisfaction and post operative continence scores at 1 year post operatively are comparable for open and Ligasure haemorrhoidectomy.