A Dubai resident has found relief from chronic haemorrhoids thanks to an innovative minimally invasive procedure performed at a local hospital. The patient, who had been suffering from stage III haemorrhoids despite a previous surgical intervention, endured years of pain, bleeding, and other severe symptoms.
The patient, a 34-year-old man, experienced significant discomfort, including anal pain, bleeding, itching, and difficulty passing stool for three months. Despite undergoing a haemorrhoidectomy four years ago and trying various medications, his symptoms persisted and worsened.
A multidisciplinary team of specialists from the Medcare Hospital Al Safa, including Dr. Saher Arour, a Consultant Vascular Surgeon, and Dr. Khaldoun Ghareb, a proctologist specializing in anorectal disorders, performed an anoscopy to confirm the diagnosis of stage III haemorrhoids with anal stenosis.
“The patient’s condition upon admission was quite severe,” said Dr. Ghareb. “He had extreme difficulty passing stool and was suffering from recurrent symptomatic stage III haemorrhoids with anal stenosis, a condition where the anus cannot open normally to pass waste.”
The team decided to proceed with a minimally invasive endovascular embolization of the superior rectal artery, a procedure never before performed in the Middle East and Africa. Dr. Arour explained, “Endovascular embolization involves using a catheter to block the blood vessels feeding the haemorrhoids, reducing blood flow and causing them to shrink.”
The procedure was completed without complications, and the patient experienced immediate relief. “He was able to use the restroom normally almost immediately after the surgery,” Dr. Arour reported. “His current prognosis is excellent, and we expect a full and lasting recovery.”
The patient expressed immense gratitude, saying, “I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Arour, Dr. Ghareb, and the entire team for their expertise and care. They have made a significant difference in my life, and I am finally free from the pain and discomfort that plagued me for years.”
Haemorrhoidal diseases affect a significant portion of the UAE population, with prevalence rates ranging from 4.4% to 39%. Factors such as inadequate nutrition and sedentary lifestyles contribute to the condition. Men are more likely to develop haemorrhoids due to prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, and straining during restroom use.
Dr. Ghareb emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed grains, regular exercise, staying hydrated, and practicing proper restroom habits.