Prospective evaluation of the hemorrhoid energy treatment for the management of bleeding internal hemorrhoids

BACKGROUND: The hemorrhoid energy treatment (HET) system is a non-surgical bipolar electrotherapy device, which has previously demonstrated efficacy in the management of bleeding Grade I and II internal hemorrhoids; however, data is limited. AIM: To prospectively assess the safety and efficacy of the HET device. METHODS: This was an IRB-approved prospective study of 73 patients with Grade I or II internal hemorrhoids who underwent HET from March 2016 to June 2019. Patient factors and procedural data were obtained. A post-procedure questionnaire was administered by telephone to all patients at 1-wk and 3-mo following HET to assess for improvement and/or resolution of rectal bleeding and adherence to a stool softener regimen. A chart review was performed to observe recurrent symptoms and durability of response. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (IBM; SPSS Version 25.0). RESULTS: Seventy-three patients underwent HET during the study period. Mean post-HET follow-up was 1.89 years. Complete resolution of bleeding was reported in 65% at 1 wk (n = 48), with improvement in bleeding in 97.2% (n = 71) of patients. At 3-mo, resolution and/or improvement in bleeding was reported in 90% (n = 64) of patients. No procedure-related pain or adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION: HET is well tolerated, safe and highly effective in the majority of our patients presenting with Grade I and II symptomatic internal hemorrhoids.