Preliminary Results of the First 50 Patients Undergoing Sclerotherapy for II-Degree Hemorrhoidal Disease Using an Automated Device

• Main Authors: Aurello, P. (Author), Diaco, E. (Author), Gallo, G. (Author), Goglia, M. (Author), Nigro, C. (Author), Trompetto, M. (Author)
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A. 2022
• Subjects: 3% polidocanol foam; bleeding haemorrhoids; hemorrhoidal disease; sclerotherapy; symptomatic haemorrhoids
• Online Access: View Fulltext in Publisher

 Background: Sclerotherapy is defined as the injection of sclerosant agents causing fibrosis and scarring of the surrounding tissue. It is currently employed for the treatment of I-III degree hemorrhoidal disease (HD). The aim of this study is to investigate the use of a new automated device for the injection of 3% polidocanol foam. Methods: This is an observational study including 50 patients who underwent a sclerotherapy procedure with 3% polidocanol foam for II-degree HD according to Goligher classification. Patients were evaluated through validated scores [Giamundo score, Hemorrhoidal Disease Symptom Score (HDSS), Short Health Scale (SHS-HD) and Vaizey score]. Follow-up was conducted until 3 months from the procedure. Results: Complete resolution of bleeding was achieved in 72% and 78% of patients, respectively, at 1 week and after 3 months from the procedure. Forty eight percent of patients were symptom free after the last follow-up visit (HDSS = 0). No major surgical complications were reported. Three patients out of 36 successfully treated, recurred, and needed a second sclerotherapy injection, which was successful in 2 of them. Conclusion: These preliminary results of 3% polidocanol foam injection on 50 patients suggest the efficacy and reproducibility of the technique with this new device in the short-term follow-up. Copyright © 2022 Goglia, Nigro, Aurello, Diaco, Trompetto and Gallo.