Laser therapy of solitary rectal ulcers: a new concept

Ann Acad Med Singap. 1994 Jan;23(1):27-8.

Abstract

Fourteen cases of histologically proven benign solitary rectal ulcer were managed with Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser (contact mode) over a three-year period. All patients were symptomatic at presentation (bleeding, mucus or pus discharge per rectum, with or without diarrhoea). Thirteen of the 14 (93%) were relieved of symptoms after a mean of 2.3 sittings of laser (range 1-8). None of the patients had associated rectal prolapse. Successfully treated patients have been followed up for a mean of 14.2 months (two to 25 months) and are symptom free. There was minimal morbidity and no death. Nd:YAG laser excision of benign solitary rectal ulcers is a safe, new and patient-friendly technique.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rectal Diseases / surgery*
  • Ulcer / surgery*