A novel one stop solution to treat symptomatic hemorrhoids-A single center experience with Rafaelo (radio frequency ablation of hemorrhoids under local anesthetic) procedure

Published Date: 16th October 2025

Publication Authors: Majeed. T, Rajaganeshan. R

Background
Symptomatic hemorrhoids is the leading cause of outpatient appointments while waiting time and recovery is tedious which creates long term psychosomatic issues in the patients

Aims and Objectives
We explored the idea whether a novel surgical technique i-e Rafaelo to treat symptomatic hemorrhoids, is safe, effective and can be delivered in a single clinical setting.

Methods
A cohort of patients (n = 110) who presented with symptomatic hemorrhoids was selected. A special one-stop clinic was set up where prospective patients were identified, invited, diagnosed, treated and discharged on the same day. Procedure was performed in lines with manufacturer guidelines. Follow up was divided into short follow up in 3-4 months, interim with a telephonic consultation and an optional long follow up at 9-12 months. Procedure safety, Recurrence rate, Pain scores, hemorrhoids severity scores and QOL (EQ-5D-5L) were determined.

Results
We identified 110 patients who were treated in the clinic over the period ranging from 2022 to 2024 average FU of 8 Months. All patients had procedure under local anesthesia in the clinic with two return to hospital because of minor bleeding.

Complete resolution of symptoms was observed in 85/110 (77%), while remission of symptoms at first follow up was 90/110 (81%). Significant improvement in QOL was also observed.

Residual symptoms in 25, 16 patients were referred for THD and mucopexy, 5 for skin tag removal and 4 were offered repeat procedure.

Conclusions
Rafaelo procedure is a safe and effective technique for treating patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids in a single clinical setting.

 

Majeed, T; Rajasundram, R. (2025). A novel one stop solution to treat symptomatic hemorrhoids-A single center experience with Rafaelo (radio frequency ablation of hemorrhoids under local anesthetic) procedure. Colorectal Disease. 27(S2). [Online]. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/codi.70177 [Accessed 30 October 2025]

 

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