Abstract
The purpose of study is to analyze the feasibility, utility, and advantage of using alternate methods of anesthesia in patients undergoing surgeries for minor anorectal ailments. A total of 60 cases with proctoscopic findings of low fistula in ano, fissure in ano, hemorrhoids grade II and grade III, were operated between October 2005 and April 2007. Patients were randomized and divided into two groups of 30 each. Group A underwent surgeries under local anesthesia while group B under spinal anesthesia. There was no significant difference in operating time and patient satisfaction score. Postoperative urinary retention was significantly higher in group B-30 % patients in group B versus 6.7 % in group A. Hospital stay was significantly decreased in group A, with 93.3 % patients discharged on day 1 as compared to 70 % in group B (P = 0.02). Surgeries under local anesthesia were beneficial in terms of hospital stay and postoperative complications like urinary retention. No significant difference in patient satisfaction was observed. Hence, compared to spinal anesthesia, local anesthesia is a safe and advantageous technique in performing minor anorectal surgeries.