Randomized clinical trial of symptom control after stapled anopexy or diathermy excision for haemorrhoid prolapse

BACKGROUND:: This multicentre randomized clinical trial studied how symptoms improved after either stapled anopexy or diathermy excision of haemorrhoids. METHODS:: The study involved 18 hospitals in Sweden, Denmark and the UK. Some 207 patients were randomized to either anopexy or Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy, of whom 90 in each group were operated on. Patients reported symptoms before surgery and after 1 year. Daily postoperative pain scores were recorded in a patient diary. Surgeons evaluated the anal anatomy before surgery and after 1 year. RESULTS:: Correction of prolapse in the anopexy and haemorrhoidectomy groups was similar at 1 year (88 and 90 per cent respectively; P = 0.80). Freedom from symptoms was obtained in 44 and 69 per cent respectively (P = 0.002). Stapled anopexy was associated with less postoperative pain, which resolved more quickly (P = 0.004). Significant improvements were noted in anal continence and well-being 1 year after both operations (P <0.001). Excessive pain was the most common complication after diathermy excision and disturbed bowel function after stapled anopexy. CONCLUSION:: Haemorrhoidal prolapse was corrected equally by either operation. Diathermy haemorrhoidectomy gave better symptom relief but was more painful. Neither operation provided complete cure but well-being was greatly improved. Registration number: ISRCTN68315343 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).