Comparative study of rubber band ligation versus surgical excision in the treatment of second-degree haemorrhoids

Abstract

Our study focused on comparing the efficacy of Rubber Band Ligation (banding), a day-care and cost-effective procedure, with conventional haemorrhoidectomy in the treatment of haemorrhoids. The study included 120 patients diagnosed through proctoscopic examination, with 60 assigned to each group. Patients were randomly selected through simple alternation for banding or haemorrhoidectomy after receiving procedural explanations and providing consent. Banding, utilizing Barron's band applicator and Hemoband suction device under local anaesthesia, demonstrated notable advantages. Comparison parameters included bleeding, pain, prolapse, and overall relief during follow-ups. Banding showed significantly lower bleeding persistence at 4 weeks compared to haemorrhoidectomy (p < 0.001). Prolapse rates were comparable between the two groups (10%). Complete relief was observed in 1.66% of patients in both groups at the first follow-up (p = 0.929). Banding resulted in moderate pain levels compared to haemorrhoidectomy. Hospital stay duration favoured banding, with 71.66% discharged in 1-3 days, while haemorrhoidectomy had longer stays (3-6 days: 26.66%, >6 days: 1.66%). In conclusion, Rubber Band Ligation emerged as a more effective and preferable method for second-degree haemorrhoids, providing better outcomes, reduced bleeding, and shorter hospital stays compared to conventional haemorrhoidectomy.