Open haemorrhoidectomy under local anaesthesia for symptomatic haemorrhoids: An experience from Nigeria

Abstract

Background and study aims: Ligation-excision haemorrhoidectomy is considered to be the gold-standard treatment for prolapsed haemorrhoids. The procedure is commonly done under general or regional anaesthesia. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and tolerability of open haemorrhoidectomy under local anaesthesia.

Patients and methods: This is a prospective study carried out in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, over a 5-year period. All consenting adult patients with prolapsing haemorrhoids were offered Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy under local anaesthesia. They were assessed for tolerance and complications.

Results: More than 95% of the patients tolerated the procedure with manageable complications.

Conclusion: Open excisional haemorrhoidectomy under local anaesthesia is feasible, safe and well tolerated in our environment, and may encourage early presentation of patients with piles to hospital.