FINGER-GUIDED HEMORRHOIDAL ARTERY LIGATION FOR HEMORRHOIDAL DISEASE: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the most common proctological conditions affecting millions worldwide. While various treatment modalities exist, the quest for a minimally invasive, effective, and patient-friendly approach has led to the development of finger-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation. This comprehensive review examines the pathophysiology of hemorrhoidal disease, the evolution of surgical management, and the role of finger-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation as a cost-effective alternative to Doppler-guided techniques. The mechanism of dearterialization, surgical technique, clinical outcomes from recent studies, and comparison with conventional hemorrhoidectomy, stapled hemorrhoidopexy, and other minimally invasive techniques are presented. The available evidence suggests that finger-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation offers comparable efficacy to Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation at significantly reduced cost, making it particularly valuable in resource-limited settings. However, careful patient selection remains crucial for optimal outcomes.