A new concept of the anatomy of the anal sphincter mechanism and the physiology of defecation. XXIII. An injection technique for the treatment of idiopathic pruritus ani.

An injection technique for the treatment of idiopathic pruritus ani is presented. The technique was performed on 67 patients after failure of other methods to achieve permanent cure. The technique comprises injection of 5% solution of phenol in almond oil in the subcutaneous tissue of the rectal neck aiming at destruction of the "epithelial debris" which exists in this area and is considered the primary cause in idiopathic pruritus. Cure was obtained in 62 patients (92.5%). The remaining five patients underwent recurrence after a period of remission, and were cured after a second injection. The advantages of the present technique over others in common use are discussed.