EFFECTIVENESS OF ARGON PLASMA COAGULATION (APC) FOR HEMORRHAGIC RADIATION PROCTITIS

Abstract

Several studies have reported that argon plasma coagulation (APC) is effective for hemorrhagic radiation proctitis resistant to medical treatment. We analyzed 24 patients with hemorrhagic radiation proctitis resistant to medical treatment to assess the effectiveness of APC. Colonoscopic findings of the hemorrhagic lesions were categorized as type-A, type-B, and type-C conforming to Chino's classification. In all patients, rectal bleeding stopped or was reduced and colonoscopic examination revealed eradication of the dilated veins after APC. We conclude that APC is a useful, effective and safe treatment for hemorrhagic radiation proctitis.