Abstract
We reviewed 318 outpatients with internal hemorrhoids who had suction ligation therapy using our modified McGowne ligator ; relief of initial symptoms was studied. Anal bleeding was the most common symptom (222 cases), prolapse was the second (89 cases) while the third was related to anal discomfort or pain (77 cases). Suction ligation for anal bleeding has a 99.0% success rate. Anal discomfort or pain after three or four suction ligation sessions has an 84.0% success rate. If the results are unsatisfactory, surgery should be considered in these two types of patients. Anal prolapse is less effectively treated (36.0%) using this method ; thus, surgery should be considered the first option in these patients. Using Goligher's grading, first and second degree patients whose main complaint is anal bleeding, such patients account for 90% of all internal hemorrhoid patients, 92.2% obtain symptom relief with this method. Only 46.9% of third degree patients can be expected to obtain symptom relief using this method ; fourth degree patients require surgery.
Suction ligation therapy is safe, easy, and painless It requires no hospitalization and can be done without assistance.
