Abstract

Introduction: Hemorrhoids are a common benign anorectal disorder that significantly impacts quality of life. While open hemorrhoidectomy (OH) is considered the gold standard for advanced hemorrhoids, it is associated with severe postoperative pain and prolonged recovery. Laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) is a minimally invasive alternative that ablates hemorrhoidal tissue with laser energy, aiming to reduce morbidity. Aim: To compare the outcomes of LHP and OH in terms of operative time, postoperative pain, hospital stay, complications, and recurrence. Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted over 12 months in the Department of Surgery. Patients with Grade ll-III–IV hemorrhoids were randomized into two groups: Laser Hemorrhoidoplasty Group (LHPG, n=30) and Open Hemorrhoidectomy Group (OHG, n=30). Data on operative time, pain (VAS score), hospital stay, complications, and recurrence were collected and analyzed using SPSS v26. Results: LHP demonstrated shorter operative time (25.6 ± 3.8 min vs. 38.7 ± 5.2 min), lower VAS pain scores at 12, 24, and 48 hours, and reduced hospital stay. Complication rates were lower in LHPG, with reduced bleeding and constipation compared to OHG. Recurrence rates at 3 months were comparable between the groups. Conclusion: Laser hemorrhoidoplasty is a safe, minimally invasive alternative to open hemorrhoidectomy, offering significant advantages in terms of pain reduction, faster recovery, and fewer complications, though cost and availability remain limiting factors.

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