The Use of Topical Anaesthetic in the Banding of Internal Haemorrhoids

A feasibility trial assessing patient recruitment, retention, randomization, and surgeon acceptability of topical anaesthetic use during rubber band ligation of haemorrhoids.

A patient and assessor blinded feasibility trial. The trial population will prospectively be recruited from colorectal surgery outpatients. Patients will be randomized to two groups to receive: lubricating gel (K-Y Jelly) and topical anaesthetic gel (Instillagel) or lubricating gel alone (the standard care).

The intervention group will receive lubricating gel and topical anaesthetic gel (containing lidocaine active ingredient) administered rectally, whilst the control group will receive lubricating gel alone (standard care). This will be carried out in Colorectal Outpatients. The band ligation of the haemorrhoids should occur between 5-10 minutes after administration of the topical anaesthetic/lubricating gel. Pain scores and the use of oral analgesia will be measured immediately after the procedure (5 minutes), upon leaving the clinic (approximately 30 minutes after), at 4 hours, and 72 hours following the procedure. Vasovagal symptoms or other complications will be recorded whilst the patient is in the clinic. At 1 month post procedure, patients will be phoned to determine if any adverse events have occurred.

Inclusion criteria

• Symptomatic grade 1-3 haemorrhoid disease, 18+ years old, English is the first language.

Exclusion criteria

• Allergy to active ingredients of Instillagel, Allergy to local anaesthetic, Chronic liver disease, Grade 4 haemorrhoid disease, Pregnancy, Inflammatory bowel disease, Pre-existing anorectal disease.