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CC BY 4.0 · Journal of Coloproctology 2025; 45(01): s00451805010
DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1805010
Review Article

Treatment of Symptomatic Occult Prolapse by Rubber Band Ligation (RBL) in a Single Outpatient Centre: A Suggestion for an Alternative to Surgery

Maurizio Gentile 
1   Department of General Surgery, Endocrinology, Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
,
Nunzio Velotti
1   Department of General Surgery, Endocrinology, Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
,
Vincenzo Schiavone
1   Department of General Surgery, Endocrinology, Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
,
Antonio Franzese
1   Department of General Surgery, Endocrinology, Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
,
Sebastiano Di Lascio
1   Department of General Surgery, Endocrinology, Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
› Author Affiliations
Funding No funding was obtained for this study.
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Abstract

Introduction

This study explores the efficacy of Rubber Band Ligation (RBL) as a treatment for symptomatic occult prolapse in a single outpatient center, proposing it as a viable alternative to traditional surgical methods. The research aims to assess patient outcomes, complication rates, and overall satisfaction with RBL, providing insights into its potential as a less invasive treatment option. Occult prolapse, often underdiagnosed, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Traditional surgical treatments, while effective, come with higher risks and longer recovery periods. This study investigates the use of RBL, a minimally invasive procedure commonly used for hemorrhoid treatment, as an alternative for addressing symptomatic occult prolapse.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with symptomatic occult prolapse at a single outpatient center. These patients underwent RBL treatment over a defined period. Data on patient demographics, symptoms, procedure details, and follow-up outcomes were collected and analyzed. The primary endpoints included symptom relief, complication rates, and patient satisfaction.

Results

The study included 186 patients with a mean age of 48.3 years. Symptom relief was achieved in about 80% of patients post-RBL, with a minor complication rate of 9%. Common complications included minor bleeding and discomfort, which were manageable with conservative measures. Results confirmed it is effective until 1 year with a low rate of complications and could be offered conservative treatment for mucosal prolapse.

Keywords

prolapse - rubber band ligation - complications - hospital stays

Author's Contribution

All authors contributed equally to the conception, design, execution, and interpretation of the research. They participated in writing and reviewing the manuscript, ensuring its accuracy and completeness. Each author has approved the final version of the manuscript for submission.




Publication History

Received: 05 December 2024

Accepted: 05 February 2025

Article published online:
26 March 2025

© 2025. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, permitting copying and reproduction so long as the original work is given appropriate credit (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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Bibliographical Record
Maurizio Gentile, Nunzio Velotti, Vincenzo Schiavone, Antonio Franzese, Sebastiano Di Lascio. Treatment of Symptomatic Occult Prolapse by Rubber Band Ligation (RBL) in a Single Outpatient Centre: A Suggestion for an Alternative to Surgery. Journal of Coloproctology 2025; 45: s00451805010.
DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1805010