Extensive subcutaneous emphysema and intra-abdominal sepsis following haemorrhoid operation: a rare complication of a novel procedure

Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation and recto anal repair (HAL-RAR) procedure is a relatively new, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of Grades III and IV haemorrhoids. A 71-year-old female presented with sepsis, abdominal distension and extensive subcutaneous emphysema and was found to have intra- and extraperitoneal rectal perforation requiring repair, laparoscopy and sigmoid colostomy. Suture ligation of the haemorrhoidal artery can inadvertently be above the peritoneal reflection and result in full thickness rectal perforation secondary to ischaemic necrosis. Previous vaginal prolapse mesh repair should be considered as a relative contraindication to HAL-RAR as it can significantly distort the anatomy.