Background: Hemorrhoid is considered one of the biggest problems all over the world. Hemorrhoidectomy is
the most effective treatment method for advanced stages hemorrhoids.
Aim of the study: To evaluate the effects of warm water sitz bath on post-hemorrhoidectomy symptoms. Patients
and Methods: Research design: Prospective randomized controlled trial. Setting: General Surgery Wards and
Outpatient Clinics of General Surgery at Assiut University Hospital. Sample: A random sample of 60 adult
patients with hemorrhoids (grade III or IV) that did not respond to conservative treatment and consequently had
undergone hemorrhoidectomy. Patients were randomly assigned to study group and control group, 30 patients
for each group. Tools: Tool I: Patient assessment sheet: Tool II: Symptoms assessment sheet. Results:
A significant improvement in the level of pain and anal burning during the 4 weeks follow-up period that was
more apparent in the study group than in the control group (p<0.01). A noticeable improvement of anal itching
was found in both groups but it was higher in the study group more than the control one; however, it reached a
statistically significant level at the third and fourth week. Wound healing was higher among the study group
when compared with the control group.
Conclusion: Warm water sitz bath had a statistically significant effect on improvement of posthemorrhoidectomy pain, anal burning, and anal irritation. Also, wound healing was improved but it did not
reach a statistically significant level.
Recommendation: Using sitz bath as a safe method to promote hygiene and comfort after hemorrhoidectomy.