ASCRS Updates Guidelines for Hemorrhoid Management

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) has updated its 2011 clinical practice guidelines for the management of hemorrhoids.

The update was released following an expanded literature search and review of evidence from 1996 through April 2017. Data was obtained from various databases, including MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database of Collected Reviews.

The new guidelines include the following recommendations:

• For the evaluation of hemorrhoids, clinicians should perform a disease-specific history and physical examination with an emphasis on the degree and duration of symptoms and risk factors.
• Certain patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids and rectal bleeding should undergo complete endoscopic evaluation of the colon.
• Primary first-line therapy for patients with symptomatic hemorrhoid disease usually consists of dietary modification that ensures adequate fluid and fiber intake, as well as counseling regarding defecation habits.
• Medical therapy for hemorrhoids can be offered with the potential for relief and expectations of minimal harm.

To view the full updated guideline, click here.

—Christina Vogt

Reference:

Davis BR, Lee-Kong SA, Migaly J, Feingold DL, Steele SR. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons clinical practice guidelines for the management of hemorrhoids. Dis Colon Rec. 2018;61(3):284-292. doi:10.1097/DCR.0000000000001030.