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Topical diltiazem and glyceryl-trinitrate for chronic anal fissure: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Lookup NU author(s): Venkatesh Kanakala

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Abstract

Objective: Surgical management of chronic anal fissure can result in permanent fecal incontinence. Topical treatments have a lower risk of severe complication and are less expensive than surgical intervention. Rates of healing and compliance with topical agents vary in the reported literature. The aim of this study was to compare healing rates, incidence of headaches, and recurrence rates of chronic anal fissure in patients treated with topical diltiazem (DTZ) and topical glyceryl-trinitrate (GTN), with a view of identifying which agent should be used as first line non-operative therapy.Material and Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), published since January 2000, comparing topical DTZ and GTN for treatment of chronic anal fissure were identified and compared. End points included healing rates, headache due to treatment, and late recurrence (>12 weeks). A random effects meta-analysis model was used to compare outcomes.Results: All studies used 2% DTZ and 0.2% or 0.5% GTN, and treatment was continued twice daily for between 6-12 weeks. Nine RCTs compared rates of healing with topical DTZ (n= 379) and GTN (n= 351), there was no difference between the two groups [RR 1.04 (0.93-1.16), p= 0.48]. Eight RCTs reviewed incidence of headaches, DTZ was better tolerated [RR 0.15 (0.07-0.34), p< 0.00001]. Four RCTs reported late recurrence rates, DTZ was superior [RR 0.51 (0.27-0.96), p= 0.04].Conclusion: Topical DTZ and GTN result in comparable healing rates; however, DTZ is superior with regards to headaches and late recurrence rates. DTZ should therefore be considered as first line non-operative treatment for chronic anal fissure.Keywords: Chronic anal fissure, topical therapy, diltiazem, glyceryl-trinitrate

Publication metadata

Author(s): Nevins EJ, Kanakala V

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Turkish Journal of Surgery

Year: 2020

Volume: 36

Issue: 4

Pages: 347-352

Online publication date: 29/12/2020

Acceptance date: 19/09/2020

ISSN (print): 2564-6850

ISSN (electronic): 2564-7032

Publisher: Turkish Surgical Association

URL: https://doi.org/10.47717/turkjsurg.2020.4895

DOI: 10.47717/turkjsurg.2020.4895

PubMed id: 33778393

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