Background:
Hemorrhoids are dilated, oedematous and inflamed veins of the venous plexus of the anal opening. Treating hemorrhoids therefore requires reducing the oedema as well as the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines present on the hemorrhoidal surface. In the absence of any treatment designed to act on these causes, currently there is no satisfactory treatment for hemorrhoids.
Objectives:
The aim of our research was to identify and to neutralize inflammation-inducing cytokines and to find a non-irritant anti-oedematous solution to reduce the piles’ volume.
Materials & Methods:
Pro-inflammatory cytokines were identified in vitro and polymers were used to neutralize their activity. These specific cytokine-blocking polymers were then incorporated in VB-Gy, a glycerol-based, highly osmotic, non-irritant solution capable of attracting hypotonic liquid from the oedematous plexuses. This solution was then filled in sprays (liquid) or tubes (gel) for external or internal application on the hemorrhoidal surface. A clinical trial was conducted on 20 placebo and 31 active treatment patients to evaluate the effects over a 6-week treatment period. Placebo patients were treated identically (3-4 topical applications per day) with a saline solution to compare the results.
Results:
The dual approach of inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oedema simultaneously was 2-3 fold more effective in providing symptomatic relief and promoting hemorrhoidal regression compared to the placebo saline solution.
Conclusions:
Simultaneously reducing oedema and blocking inflammation may constitute an ideal curative treatment for internal and external hemorrhoids in the future.