Radiofrequency ablation (Rafaelo Procedure) for the treatment of hemorrhoids: a case series in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Purpose Hemorrhoidal disease remains a common condition that can have a significant effect on a patient’s quality of life. Various methods have been introduced over the years; however, their overall success rates remain low. Although the traditional Milligan Morgan technique is effective, the associated pain level prevents it from being an attractive form of treatment. This study was devised to assess the safety and efficacy associated with a novel minimally invasive approach, radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods Forty-two patients underwent RFA at a single center, by 1 of 2 surgeons. This was performed under local anesthetic and sedation. Outcomes including postoperative pain levels, recurrence rates, and patient satisfaction scores were recorded and analyzed using medians and interquartile ranges Results The median postoperative pain score was 2.5/10 (interquartile range [IQR], 0–4.5) and the overall patient satisfaction score was 9 out of 10 (IQR, 6.5–10). Recurrence rates (6–12 months following the procedure) were low at 12% and all patients reported milder symptoms at recurrence. There were no serious adverse complications Conclusion The results from this case series supports other limited data in concluding that RFA is a safe and effective method in the treatment of hemorrhoids and patients report a high level of satisfaction following

Keywords

• hemorrhoids
• radiofrequency ablation
• case series
• novel