Topical Modalities to Reduce Acute Post-Hemorrhoidectomy Pain: A Comparative Clinical Study

Abstract Despite the advances in pain therapy, postoperative hemorrhoidectomy pain is still common and annoying. The present study aims to minimize post-hemorrhoidectomy pain and improve the quality of life. The current study is a single-center, prospective, randomized, comparative clinical trial performed in the General Surgery Department from January to October 2024. The study included 150 hemorrhoidectomy patients randomly allocated to five groups: group I – control group; group II – local injection of ketorolac and light bupivacaine; group III – injection of light bupivacaine; group IV – local injection of corticosteroids; and group V – topical diclofenac sodium gel. Compared ot the other groups, group IV presented significantly better outcomes (p < 0.001) regarding the need, dose, and frequency of nalufin, postoperative pain score, and time until first ambulation. However, it presented longer healing time than the other groups. Local injections of corticosteroids can effectively reduce pain after hemorrhoidectomy.