Clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix) does not increase bleeding complications in patients undergoing rubber band ligation for symptomatic hemorrhoids.

Background: The incidence of postprocedural bleeding in patients undergoing rubber band ligation (RBL) for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids while taking clopidogrel bisulfate is unknown. To determine the postprocedural bleeding risk of RBL for patients taking clopidogrel compared with age- and sex-matched controls.

Materials And Methods: This is a retrospective case-controlled cohort study analyzing data from 2005 to 2013 conducted at a single tertiary care academic center.

Use of Sodium Hyaluronate/Carboxymethylcellulose Bioresorbable Membrane in Loop Ileostomy Construction Facilitates Stoma Closure.

Background: Loop ileostomy is a common adjunct to surgical procedures for low rectal cancers and inflammatory bowel disease. Ileostomy closure through a limited incision can be technically challenging. We hypothesized that placing a sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose (SH/CMC) bioresorbable membrane at loop ileostomy creation would decrease stoma closure time without increasing morbidity.

Restorative proctocolectomy: the current ochsner experience.

Background: Restorative proctocolectomy with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is a technically demanding procedure to treat ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis. Since its initial description almost 30 years ago, the operation has undergone technical and perioperative modifications to improve the patient's experience.

Methods: We performed a retrospective review of the records of patients undergoing restorative proctocolectomy at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation Hospital from 2008 to 2012 and compared data from that period to data from 1989-1995 (prior to laparoscopic pouch surgery) to determine factors associated with patient outcome.

Variations in perioperative steroid management among surgical subspecialists.

Previously we demonstrated consistency in perioperative steroid dosing among colon and rectal surgeons. To determine whether patterns have changed and if dosing schedules differ across surgical specialties, we evaluated multiple specialties. Questionnaires were mailed to members of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (CRS) (n = 1523), American Society of Transplant Surgeons (TS) (n = 988), American Society of General Surgeons (GS) (n = 2750), and American Association of Endocrine Surgeons (ES) (n = 278).

Rectal prolapse: a 10-year experience.

Purpose: To compare perineal to abdominal procedures for rectal prolapse over a 10-year period at a single tertiary care institution.

Methods: Between May 1, 1995, and January 1, 2005, 75 patients underwent surgical intervention for primary rectal prolapse at a tertiary referral center. Surgical techniques included perineal-based repairs (Altemeier and Delorme procedures) and abdominal procedures (open and laparoscopic resection and/or rectopexy).

The importance of colonoscopy in colorectal surgeons' practices: results of a survey.

Purpose: The role of colonoscopy in the prevention of colorectal cancer has been accepted, not only by the medical community but by the federal government as well. This study sought to document the current role of colonoscopy in the practices of colorectal surgeons.

Methods: A survey was mailed to members of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons detailing the scope of colonoscopy in their practices.

Local recurrence, distant recurrence and survival of rectal cancer.

Purpose: To assess our institution's ability to minimize local and distant recurrence with a preference for sphincter preserving surgery in the management of rectal cancer.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of all patients treated between 1982 and 1998. Patients with Stage 0 (AJCC) disease and those treated for palliation were not included.