Hemorrhoids Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Hemorrhoids, including details on treatment, internal, external, surgery.

Is stapled hemorrhoidopexy safe for the male homosexual patient? Report of a case.

Kekez T, Bulic K, Smudj D, Majerovic M

University Hospital Zagreb, Kispaticeva 12, Zagreb, Croatia.

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is becoming a widely accepted surgical treatment for third- and fourth-degree hemorrhoids because it is associated with much less postoperative pain than open hemorrhoidectomy. After the procedure, a circular line of staples is left in the anal canal; therefore, there is a risk of penile injury or condom damage during anal intercourse, which increases the risk of exposure to sexually transmitted diseases. We report the case of a male homosexual patient who engaged in anal intercourse after recovering from a stapled hemorrhoidopexy, resulting in condom damage. We did not consider this possibility and neglected to discuss the issue with the patient. With an estimated 2.5% of the general population being exclusive, male homosexuals, it is necessary to inform such patients to refrain from anal intercourse after hemorrhoidopexy, although there are no reports stating how long this restraint should last.

Published 27 March 2007 in Surg Today, 37(4): 335-7.
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