Ligation anopexy versus hemorrhoidectomy in the treatment of second- and third-degree hemorrhoids

Background The aim of the study was to compare ligation anopexy (LA) and conventional hemorrhoidectomy (CH) in treatment of second- and third-degree hemorrhoids. Methods A prospective controlled randomized clinical trial included 100 patients who underwent CH (CH group) and 100 patients who underwent LA (LA group). A detailed history was taken from all the patients. The effectiveness, safety, postoperative complications, operative time, length of hospital stay, time until first bowel movement, time until return to work, and postoperative pain score were assessed. Results There was no significant difference between groups regarding age, sex, and preoperative symptoms. The LA group had significantly shorter operative times, earlier first bowel movement, and an earlier return to work/activities. The postoperative pain score in the LA group was significantly lower than that in the CH group on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 after surgery. There was no significant difference between groups as regards postoperative complications. Conclusions LA is safe, and as effective as CH in the treatment of grade II and grade III hemorrhoids, with shorter operative times, earlier mobilization, and lower postoperative pain scores.