Comparative Analysis of Hemorrhoidectomy and Rubber Band Ligation in Grade II-III Internal Hemorrhoids: A Long-Term Outcome Study

Background: Hemorrhoidal disease is a common anorectal disorder, with Grade II-III internal hemorrhoids requiring effective treatment options.Hemorrhoidectomy and rubber band ligation (RBL) are widely used, yet their long-term outcomes remain debated.Objective: This study aims to compare the long-term outcomes of hemorrhoidectomy and rubber band ligation in patients with Grade II-III internal hemorrhoids in terms of recurrence, complications, and quality of life.Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital and Privet Hospitals in Rajshahi, from January 2022 to June 2024.A total of 112 patients with Grade II-III internal hemorrhoids were enrolled.Fifty-six patients underwent hemorrhoidectomy, and fifty-six patients underwent rubber band ligation.Both groups were followed up for 12 months post-procedure.Data was collected on symptom resolution, recurrence, complications, and patient satisfaction.Results: The overall recurrence rate for hemorrhoidectomy was 5.4%, compared to 15.1% for rubber band ligation.The standard deviation (SD) for the recurrence rate in the hemorrhoidectomy group was 0.28, while in the RBL group, it was 0.42.The p-value was 0.001, indicating a statistically significant difference in recurrence rates between the two groups.Postoperative complications were more frequent in the hemorrhoidectomy group (14.3%) compared to 7.1% in the RBL group.Patient satisfaction was higher in the RBL group (89.3%) compared to hemorrhoidectomy (72.5%).Conclusion: Hemorrhoidectomy is more effective in preventing recurrence, but it comes with higher complication rates.Rubber band ligation offers a lower-risk alternative with faster recovery and satisfactory long-term results.