Endoscopic approaches to the management of hemorrhoids.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the literature within the last 5 years on the current status and future perspectives of the endoscopic management of internal hemorrhoids.

RECENT FINDINGS: Despite the large burden of hemorrhoidal diseases, research in this area, particularly on endoscopic approaches for treatment, has been slow. Within the last 5 years, data has been published on the novel cap-assisted endoscopic sclerotherapy (CAES), which will continue to gain attention in the future. Rubber band ligation has been adopted by the endoscopist as endoscopic rubber band ligation (ERBL), demonstrating satisfactory results in treating symptomatic hemorrhoids, although mild postprocedure complications are common. Data is needed on head-to-head comparisons between ERBL, endoscopic sclerotherapy, and CAES. Other methods, such as coagulation, are understudied and should be explored further in the endoscopic setting. Meaningful comparisons between treatment methods for internal hemorrhoids have been difficult because of variations in interventional techniques and methods, differences in the grading of hemorrhoids, and lack of standardization of clinical trials. The Goligher classification alone is inadequate for determining the management of symptomatic hemorrhoids and this warrants revision.

SUMMARY: Gastroenterologists are poised to assume a greater role in the management of internal hemorrhoids with flexible endoscopy. Current endoscopic treatment options require further study.