The use of corticosteroid ointments in the management of postoperative anorectal wounds

Conclusions When applied to anorectal wounds, 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone in 0.1 per cent and 0.2 per cent concentration and triamcinolone acetonide in 0.1 per cent concentration effectively minimizes edema, fibrosis, tab formation and postoperative pain. Smoother healing and reduced disability are accomplished in a higher percentage of cases with 0.2 per cent 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone than with preparations containing 0.1 per cent of the corticosteroid. Benefits achieved with 0.1 per cent triamcinolone acetonide or 0.2 per cent 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone are roughly equivalent to those observed with 2.5 per cent hydrocortisone. Addition of antibacterial and antifungal agents to corticosteroids is considered helpful but not essential to treatment. When neomycin, gramicidin and nystatin were combined with triamcinolone acetonide, no clear-cut advantage was apparent, and an undesirable amount of granulation tissue sometimes developed during the reparative process. Prompt topical application of corticosteroids in the postoperative period is a rational therapeutic measure which minimizes edema of perianal tissues, reduces pain and prevents other undesirable sequelae.