Comparison of hemorrhoidectomy versus hemorrhoidectomy and internal sphincterotomy in terms of postoperative pain.

Objectives: To compare open hemorrhoidectomy with internal sphincterotomy versus open hemorrhoidectomy alone in terms of frequency of the postoperative pain. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial. Setting: Surgical Unit - I, Holy family Hospital, Rawalpindi. Period: For one year  i.e. from January 2016 to December 2016. Material & Methods: 250 patients were divided in two equal groups by lottery method. The surgical procedure was performed using standard protocols after obtaining written informed consent. Anal dilatation was done  after open hemorrhoidectomy in patients of control group (Group A). In the study group (Group B), the patients were subjected to lateral internal sphincterotomy after completion of classical open hemorrhoidectomy. Postoperative pain score was recorded by using visual analog scale. Difference between both groups for pain was analyzed using chi-square test. Results: There were 68 males and 57 females in Group-A and 61 males and 64 females in Group-B. The mean age of patients in Group-A was 33.10±8.77years and in Group-B was 32.52±9.4years. The mean pain score of patients in Goup-A and Group-B was 2.82±2.51 and 1.59±1.58 respectively (P<0.05). In Group-A, 94 (75.2%) cases had no pain while in Group-B, 116 (92.8%) cases were pain free following the procedure. The difference between both groups was significant i.e. P < 0.05. Conclusion: Open hemorrhoidectomy with internal sphincterotomy is effective in reducing postoperative pain.