Results of 7302 stapled haemorrhoidectomy operations in a single centre: a seven-year review and follow-up questionnaire survey

Background: This study aims to evaluate the results of all 7302 stapled haemorrhoidectomy operations performed in a single centre. Method: A retrospective review of all 7302 patients who underwent stapled haemorrhoidectomy at our department over seven years was conducted. The hospital database was reviewed for subsequent readmissions and re‐operations. A questionnaire survey was also sent out to all the patients. Results: A total of 302 patients (4.1%) were admitted with post‐operative bleeding and 281 stopped with conservative measures. Twenty one required surgical haemostasis. A total of 301 patients (4.1%) were admitted for an inability to void and 191 (2.6%) had true acute retention of urine, requiring catheterization. There were 124 patients (1.7%) admitted for pain, but all resolved with oral analgesia subsequently. Anal stricture requiring surgery occurred in only 86 patients (1.2%). Serious complications such as staple line dehiscence or anorectal sepsis occurred in seven patients. There were a total of 14 recurrences requiring readmission over this seven‐year period, of which 12 were treated successfully with a second haemorrhoidectomy. A total of 1834 patients returned their questionnaire surveys and 95% of the patients reported complete resolution or improvement of their symptoms. Only 27 patients reported subsequent severe bleeding requiring medical attention. Conclusion: Stapled haemorrhoidectomy is safe, and most patients are satisfied with the long‐term outcome.