This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Randomized clinical trial of LigaSure™ and conventional diathermy haemorrhoidectomy. BJS 2007; 94: 937-942.
Published: 16th July 2007
Authors: M. G. Muzi, G. Milito, C. Nigro, F. Cadeddu, F. Andreoli, D. Amabile et al.
Background
The aim of this randomized prospective trial was to compare LigaSure™ and conventional diathermy haemorrhoidectomy.
Method
Two hundred and eighty‐four patients with grade III or IV haemorrhoids were randomized to LigaSure™ or diathermy (Milligan–Morgan) haemorrhoidectomy as a day‐case procedure. Operating time, postoperative pain score, hospital stay, postoperative complications, wound healing time and time to return to normal activities were assessed. Thirty‐four patients were lost to follow‐up.
Results
The mean operating time for LigaSure™ haemorrhoidectomy was significantly shorter than that for diathermy (P = 0·011). Patients treated with LigaSure™ had significantly less postoperative pain (measured on a visual analogue scale; P = 0·010), a shorter wound healing time (defined as time to absence of swelling; P = 0·012) and less time off work (P = 0·010) than patients who had diathermy. Neither postoperative complications nor mean hospital stay (day‐case surgery) were significantly different.
Conclusion
LigaSure™ haemorrhoidectomy demonstrates simplicity, reproducibility, a low complication rate, fast wound healing, a quick return to work and reduced postoperative pain. Copyright © 2007 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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