THD Hellas website syndication http://www.thdhellas.gr Sat, 19 May 2012 23:13:40 +0200 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/what-lab.html The THD method is the most effective answer to the problems associated with haemorrhoidal disease. Haemorrhoid sufferers know the severe consequences of this disease very well: bleeding, prolapse of the rectal mucosa and the pain ensuing from a surgery performed with conventional methods. The THD method addresses and solves these problems effectively: it reduces the arterial inflow to the piles and repairs the prolapse, if any, by performing haemorrhoidopexy, thus repositioning haemorrhoidal cushions. The procedure is performed in an area where no nerve endings are found, thus eliminating the main problem associated with conventional surgical methods: PAIN. Operations performed with the THD method are minimally invasive, since they do not imply any excision of tissue, and absolutely safe. The THD method is a cutting-edge procedure for haemorrhoid treatment, which revolutionizes the surgical approach to haemorrhoids: it ensures maximum effectiveness of results, while minimizing the levels of invasiveness, pain and stress for patients. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/the-thd-method.html THD is the least traumatic and least invasive surgical treatment for haemorrhoids. With THD the patient can resume normal activities within 24 - 48 hours. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/thd-method-lab.html With THD, it will only take a day and... You can forget the pain Sitting will not be a problem You can quickly resume your normal activity http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/anorectal-diseases-lab.html Thanks to the commitment and the expertise of its pool of technicians, experts and specialists, THD Lab has acquired a wealth of experience in the field of medical and surgical devices for anorectal diseases over the years. Anorectal diseases are all the diseases that affect the area between the anus, i.e. the opening of the rectum through which stool passes out of the human body, and the terminal portion of the large intestine, between the colon and the anus. A wide range of diseases fall within this definition, and present different causes, symptoms, and severity levels. Undoubtedly, haemorrhoidal disease is the most common disease that affects people aged over 50 in Western countries, but anal rhagades, bowel incontinence, anal abscesses, anal fistulae, anal condyloma, and rectal prolapse are also quite common. The aim of THD Lab is to provide readers with a comprehensive overview of these diseases, based on the state of the art of knowledge in this field: each section describes both the symptoms and the causes of these diseases in detail, and provides a list of all possible treatments available to date. All the texts have been prepared and edited by Dr. Salafia, an expert coloproctologist and our valued collaborator. This ensures maximum accuracy for both the scientific content and the language used. THD Lab is willing to make its own stock of knowledge, as well as its own know-how, available to patients, so that their needs can be met, their questions answered and their doubts resolved. Providing good information is the first step towards doing something good for patients' health. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/faqs/questions/faqs-lab.html FAQs http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/about-us.html THD Lab has always manufactured biomedical devices complying with the highest safety standards to give patients ultimate safety. The brilliant results this surgical procedure has achieved so far, combined with its minimal invasiveness, have made the THD method very popular and have roused the interest of the scientific community. In this section you can find the testimonies of some patients who underwent a THD procedure, a few articles, and the interviews given by Dr. Carlo Ratto, researcher and coloproctological surgeon at Gemelli General Hospital, and member of the Italian Association of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR). http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/where-we-are.html http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/haemorrhoids.html Haemorrhoidal disease is the most common proctological disease in Western countries. About 50% of the people above 50 years of age that live in industrialized countries are estimated to suffer or to have suffered from symptoms associated with haemorrhoidal disease. Due to their high incidence and their non-specificity, symptoms require a thorough diagnosis to rule out any other disease of the lower part of the digestive system, with particular reference to neoplasias. Before treating haemorrhoids, a thorough clinical assessment should be performed, since a wide range of treatment options is now available. Depending on the severity of both the disease and the symptoms, physicians can choose among medical treatments, out-patient surgery/ day-surgery, and conventional surgery with a longer stay in hospital. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/how-lab.html The THD method is performed by proctological surgeons with a special equipment which allows them to identify with great accuracy and safety the areas in which the procedure needs to be performed http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/where-lab.html The THD procedure is very easy to perform and ensures high-quality results: this is why this technique has roused the interest of the scientific community and is now spreading quite rapidly. Nowadays this new method is adopted in several medical centres and hospitals. On this website you can find further information on the method, as well as answers to any questions you may have. Just visit our FAQs. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/when-lab.html THD is the right method not only for easy cases but also for more complex ones, which cause more trouble to haemorrhoid sufferers. Nevertheless, it is up to the proctologist to decide whether the necessary conditions to perform this procedure are met. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/before-and-after.html * Before performing the procedure. After the proctologist has recommended an operation, the THD procedure can be performed. This method ensures ultimate safety and comfort both while preparing patients for the operation and during the post-operative period. * After performing the procedure. Patients feel no pain in the post-operative period. They can feel heavy and uncomfortable though. This feeling gradually disappears after a few days and can be kept under control by taking ordinary painkillers. No serious complications usually arise: slight bleeding may occur, which is supposed to stop after a few hours. Patients may also feel an urgent need to defecate: this is a temporary condition too, since it is associated with the repair of the prolapse. In most cases the THD method can be considered a permanent solution to haemorrhoids, since relapses are very rare. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/anal-rhagas.html An anal rhagas is a small wound among the radial plicae of the anus. It cannot heal spontaneously, because cicatrisation is hindered by the contractions of the anal sphincter http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/pruritus-ani-lab.html Pruritus ani is a quite common condition which occurs most frequently after defecation or at night. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/bowel-incontinence.html Bowel incontinence is the impaired ability to control gas or stool. Its severity ranges from mild difficulty with gas control to severe loss of control over liquid and formed stools. Bowel incontinence and urinary incontinence tend to get worse with age. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/anal-abscess-lab.html An anal abscess is an infected cavity filled with pus found in the anal region. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/anal-fistula-lab.html Anal Fistula http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/anal-condyloma-lab.html Anal warts are benign tumours caused by viruses of the human papilloma virus family. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/rectal-prolapse-lab.html There are two kinds of rectal prolapse: mucous rectal prolapse and total rectal prolapse. Mucous rectal prolapse occurs when only the rectal mucosa protrudes out of the anus by a few centimetres with defecation, then it goes back to its normal position. Total rectal prolapse occurs when the whole lining of the rectum protrudes out of the anus. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are.html There are two kinds of rectal prolapse: mucous rectal prolapse and total rectal prolapse. Mucous rectal prolapse occurs when only the rectal mucosa protrudes out of the anus by a few centimetres with defecation, then it goes back to its normal position. Total rectal prolapse occurs when the whole lining of the rectum protrudes out of the anus. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-rec.html Mucous rectal prolapse is associated with the following symptoms: tenesmus, difficult bowel movements, mucus discharge, irritation and intense itching. Total rectal prolapse is associated with the following symptoms: "wet anus", perianal dermatitis, intense itching, soreness, mucus discharge and irritation. Bowel incontinence may also frequently occur. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-rec.html Several factors may contribute to the development of mucous rectal prolapse: weakening of the anal sphincter muscle, bowel incontinence, constipation, diarrhoea and abdominal straining upon urination, which is often associated with prostatic hypertrophy and haemorrhoids. Several factors may contribute to the development of total rectal prolapse: rectal tumour or polyp, haemorrhoids, excessive intra-abdominal pressure (e.g. due to constipation or coughing), excessive depth of the abdominal cavity, weakening of the anal sphincter muscle, as well as stretching of the ligaments that support the rectum inside the pelvis. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-rec.html Several factors may contribute to the development of mucous rectal prolapse: weakening of the anal sphincter muscle, bowel incontinence, constipation, diarrhoea and abdominal straining upon urination, which is often associated with prostatic hypertrophy and haemorrhoids. Several factors may contribute to the development of total rectal prolapse: rectal tumour or polyp, haemorrhoids, excessive intra-abdominal pressure (e.g. due to constipation or coughing), excessive depth of the abdominal cavity, weakening of the anal sphincter muscle, as well as stretching of the ligaments that support the rectum inside the pelvis. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-haemorrhoides.html Haemorrhoids are part of the normal anatomy of both men and women and are located in the lower part of the rectum, near the anal canal, already at birth. They are a complex of arteries, capillaries and veins. These blood vessels are equipped with valves that open and close to swell and shrink haemorrhoids, which are secured to the anus lining through fibrous ligaments. The haemorrhoidal plexus (i.e. the complex of cushions formed by the blood vessels of haemorrhoids) is made up of internal haemorrhoids and external haemorrhoids: Internal haemorrhoids are the haemorrhoidal cushions located above the "dentate line" (i.e. the upper verge of the anatomical anal canal; it is also known as "pain line", because painful stimuli can be felt underneath it). Internal haemorrhoids are insensitive, since they are covered by rectal mucosa, which does not have sensory innervations. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-haemorrhoids.html Haemorrhoidal disease is associated with vascular symptoms - oedema, constipation and bleeding - which usually occur when the faecal bolus goes through the anus with defecation. The disease advances over time, and haemorrhoidal cushions protrude outside the anus with defecation: in the early stages of the disease, they reduce spontaneously after defecation, while at an advanced stage it is necessary to place them back inside the anus manually. When the disease reaches its most advanced stage, haemorrhoidal cushions remain outside the anus permanently, thus forming the so-called prolapse. Prolapse can frequently lead to complications, such as blood clots forming inside it (haemorrhoidal thrombosis). Certain conditions can make the symptoms of haemorrhoids worse, such as pregnancy, repeated straining, constipation, diarrhoea, changes in dietary and/or working habits, travels, and seasonal changes. The symptoms of haemorrhoids can be subject to either remission or aggravation. Bleeding About 10% of adults (aged between 25 and 65) are estimated to have experienced minor rectal bleeding. The most frequent causes of rectal bleeding are the following: (source: Nicholls 1985) Perianal lesion 7% Anal rhagas 18% Haemorrhoids 54% Neoplastic lesion 6.5% Inflammatory disease 5% Alterations in bowel movements 3.5% Other causes 3% Unidentified causes 3% Pain Internal haemorrhoids usually cause no pain. In most cases acute anal pain is associated with acute rhagades; it may be less frequently associated with an ano-rectal abscess, with a thrombosed perianal varix or with internal haemorrhoid prolapse/thrombosis. In such cases pain is felt or even worsened with defecation. Prolapse Prolapse is caused by an increase in the volume of either one or all the haemorrhoidal cushions, as well as by a concurrent sinking of the supporting connective tissue. These two attendant phenomena make haemorrhoids slide down the anal canal, and protrude outside the anus with defecation. Depending on the degree of haemorrhoids, prolapse can reduce spontaneously (2nd degree haemorrhoids), it can be manually reduced (3rd degree haemorrhoids) or it cannot be reduced at all (4th degree haemorrhoids). Constipation and prolapse may sometimes occur when people stand for a prolonged period of time. In such a situation, people usually feel a sense of discomfort and congestion in both the anal and the perianal area. Serum and mucus discharge, as well as anal itching as a consequence of dermatitis, may also occur. Haemorrhoid treatment is chosen depending on the severity of prolapse, since haemorrhoid classification is actually a classification of haemorrhoidal prolapse. This is why prolapse should be thoroughly assessed, both at rest and during straining upon defecation. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-haemorrhoids.html Many theories exist on the development of haemorrhoidal disease: according to one of them, haemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins (theory of vascular hyperplasia), while according to another one haemorrhoid onset is due to the fact that ano-rectal mucosa becomes redundant and slides down. Many factors contribute to the development of "pathological" haemorrhoidal cushions. The occurrence of these alterations may be facilitated by the following factors: * Family history; * Environmental factors: - Constipation; - Abnormal straining upon defecation; - Low-fibre diet; - Obesity; - Sedentary lifestyle; * Other factors: - Deterioration of the supporting connective tissue; - Pregnancy; - Related diseases. Stages of the disease Haemorrhoid classification is based on a clinical examination, which is extremely important to choose the most appropriate treatment. Classification (Goligher scale) Signs Degree Haemorrhoids may protrude during straining, but they are not prolapsed. They can be seen during proctoscopy. 1st degree The prolapse can be seen on the anal verge during straining, and it reduces spontaneously after defecation. 2nd degree The prolapse can be manually reduced. 3rd degree The prolapse cannot be reduced. 4th degree http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-haemorrhoids.html Diet and lifestyle In least severe cases the symptoms of haemorrhoids can be soothed by changing one's lifestyle and by making it a practice to: relieve one's bowels at regular intervals and reduce straining upon defecation by softening one's stool and sitting on the toilet bowl just for a few minutes. Follow a high-fibre diet, eating fruit, vegetables and wholefood; a sufficient quantity of liquids should also be drunk during the day (at least 1.5 - 2 litres). If necessary, fibre supplements such as Psyllium, bran, etc. should also be taken. A higher intake of both fibres and liquids helps prevent constipation and can soften stool, thus reducing straining upon defecation. Regular exercise helps stimulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. It is important to avoid straining upon defecation as well as sitting too long on the toilet bowl (reading, etc.). It is advisable to go to the toilet as soon as the need to defecate is felt. Some people suppress this stimulus to delay defecation: this behaviour can result in larger, more solid stool, which is more difficult to be expelled. Even after defecation, haemorrhoid sufferers can feel a sense of rectal "fullness", hence the need to defecate again. This stimulus should be suppressed. Sometimes, haemorrhoids at an early stage can be treated by obeying the simple rules of conduct described above. Medical treatment Ointments, creams, and  suppositories Even though they cannot "heal" haemorrhoids, several pharmaceutical preparations can soothe their symptoms, such as pain and itching: Mild emollient creams, ointments or suppositories can soothe pain. Preparations containing local anaesthetics (such as lidocaine) can help relieve acute pain: they should only be used for a short period (5-10 days) though, as they may cause sensitisation or irritation of the anal skin. Topical preparations containing corticosteroids can be prescribed by a physician in the event of an inflammation. Reducing the inflammation can help soothe soreness and itching. As for preparations containing anaesthetics, these too should not be used for a prolonged period of time. Oral treatments Oral medications, such as flavonoids and synthetic seeds, can help improve vein tone, thus reducing vascular permeability and inflammation. Parasurgical procedures and out-patient surgical procedures Parasurgical procedures are performed in the early stages of symptomatic haemorrhoidal disease. Such treatments are suitable for internal haemorrhoid cushions, located above the dentate line, in an area where there are no sensory innervations. If they are performed correctly, such procedures should not be painful. The most common procedures are rubber band ligation and injection sclerotherapy. Rubber band ligation With this procedure, which is usually performed by a surgeon in an outpatient clinic or office, a rubber band is placed at the bottom of the haemorrhoid. This cuts off the blood supply to the cushion, which necrotizes and falls off after a few days. Then the tissue underlying the haemorrhoid cicatrizes. Rubber band ligation Mild complications may occur: mild pain in the ano-rectal area, which disappears spontaneously; acute pain straight after the procedure is performed, which is a sure sign that the rubber band was not placed correctly; haemorrhoidal thrombosis (which is very painful); movements of the rubber band; slight bleeding and mucous ulcers. Severe complications are quite rare and may include urine retention, rectal bleeding, perianal abscesses and pelvic sepsis. These major complications occur in about 2-3% of cases; the most frequent severe complication is a significant rectal haemorrhage, which usually occurs ten days after ligation. This requires hospitalization. Injection sclerotherapy Sclerotherapy is an alternative to rubber band ligation and allows blood flow to the haemorrhoidal cushion to be reduced, thus decreasing the volume of the cushion. In addition to that, this method secures the mucosa to the underlying layers, thus reducing the prolapse. Complications: the most common complications are temporary ano-rectal pain and a mild rectal haemorrhage in the first days after sclerotherapy.                          More severe complications, which are quite rare though, include sub-mucous abscesses,  blood in urine and impotence. Such complications may occur if the injections are not given in the correct position. Infra-red photocoagulation, cryotherapy Infra-red photocoagulation and cryotherapy, which can be alternatives to rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy, are offered as out-patient procedures. Nevertheless they are much less popular than rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy, and they are performed less frequently. Although parasurgical procedures can be less painful and more tolerable than conventional surgical procedures, they are not effective for all haemorrhoid degrees and they show a high relapse rate. Conventional surgical procedures Milligan Morgan technique and Ferguson technique In conventional surgical procedures a surgical ligation is performed at the bottom of haemorrhoids, which are then surgically removed. If they are properly performed, these procedures are very effective and can solve the problem once and for all, since they remove both internal and external haemorrhoids. Such techniques are very painful in the post-operative period, because they leave three wounds in the perianal area, which cause acute pain during bowel movements. The most common haemorrhoidectomy techniques are the Milligan-Morgan method and the Ferguson method. In the Milligan-Morgan procedure, wounds are left open after surgery so that they can cicatrize spontaneously. Milligan Morgan procedure In the Ferguson procedure, wounds are closed with a running suture. Complications are quite rare, but severe, and may include anal stenosis, haemorrhage and various degrees of incontinence. Stapled haemorrhoidopexy This procedure was developed in an attempt to treat prolapsed haemorrhoids without excision or ligation of the haemorrhoidal tissue. A mechanical stapling device is used in this technique, which was devised by Dr. Longo in the 90s. It is less painful and more "physiological" than conventional haemorrhoidectomy, since it implies no excision of the haemorrhoidal tissue. Haemorrhoidopexy Some specific complications may occur, such as post-operative haemorrhage, persistent ano-rectal pain, a compelling urge to defecate and in some cases rectal perforation. THD - A painless surgical procedure to treat haemorrhoids Transanal haemorrhoid dearterialization is the least invasive surgical technique to treat haemorrhoids, as it implies no tissue excision. A few internal stitches are given on the rectal mucosa, in an area where there are no sensory innervations. For this surgical procedure a doppler is used to locate the terminating branches of the haemorrhoidal arteries. Once the artery is located, the surgeon uses an absorbable suture to ligate or "tie-off" the arterial blood flow. If haemorrhoids are prolapsed, a hemorrhoidopexy is performed to repair the prolapse and to "lift" the tissue back to its anatomical position. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-ragas.html An anal rhagas is a small wound among the radial plicae of the anus. It cannot heal spontaneously, because cicatrisation is hindered by the contractions of the anal sphincter http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-ragas.html Although it is not a severe disease, the anal rhagas is very painful and causes several secondary problems, among which fear of defecating. As a reaction to pain, the anal sphincter contracts, thus making it more difficult for the rhagas to heal. As pain is felt or worsened upon defecation, patients tend to delay defecation, thus worsening the wound: stool becomes larger and more solid and consequently more difficult to be expelled. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-ragas.html Normal dilation of the anus during bowel movements is usually sufficient to pass stool without straining and skin laceration. An excessive dilation of the anus may cause skin laceration around the anal verge. An excessive dilation of the anus is usually due to constipated stool: this is why constipated people are more frequently prone to suffer from anal rhagades. The small cut due to anal skin laceration causes mild bleeding: blood may be seen either on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Many people experience this kind of bleeding from time to time (few times a year, on the average). Blood coming out of these small cuts is usually bright red (fresh blood). When blood is dark red, bleeding may be due to an internal haemorrhage. If this is the case, consult your physician. Occasional anal bleeding should not give cause for concern: in most cases small skin lacerations heal up spontaneously in a few days like any other wound. Due to the shape and structure of the anus, as well as to its contraction pattern, when skin lacerations recur several times (even after a few months or years), the skin breaking point is always the same. Sometimes it happens that the laceration cannot heal up, thus forming the so-called rhagas. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-ragas.html A relaxation of the involuntary sphincter is fundamental to heal a rhagas. The main methods used to help the involuntary sphincter relax are: The application of ointments containing nitro-glycerine Mechanical dilators Botulinum toxin injections Surgery, which is performed to lance the sphincter. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-proknismos.html Pruritus ani is a quite common condition which occurs most frequently after defecation or at night. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-proknismos.html Pruritus ani results in a compelling urge to scratch in the anal area. In an attempt to soothe itching, patients frequently scratch and cleanse the area, thus causing numerous lesions. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-proknismos.html Several factors may be at fault. A common cause is excessive cleansing of the area. Another one is excessive moisture in the anal area. Moisture may be due to perspiration or a small amount of residual stool around the anal area. Drinking some kinds of beverages (beverages containing caffeine and alcoholic beverages) and eating certain food items, such as chocolate, tomatoes, pop-corn and fruit, may also contribute to the onset of pruritus ani. These beverages and foods irritate the digestive system, thus increasing bowel movements and the quantity of mucus produced by the rectum. Laboratory tests and clinical examinations (e.g. examination by a proctologist) are recommended to identify the definite cause of pruritus ani. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-proknismos.html Treatments for pruritus ani aim at eliminating its causes, whether of a dermatological or of a proctological nature. If causes cannot be eliminated, a few simple measures can be taken to help this condition improve: 1. Keep the area around the anus clean: wash it both in the morning and in the evening, as well as after defecation. 2. Never use any kind of soap in the perianal area. Just rinse it with warm water. 3. Use wet toilet paper or a wet cotton washcloth to blot the area dry. Never rub. 4. Only wear cotton underwear. Avoid synthetic fabrics and wool. 5. Try to have bowel movements every day. 6. Avoid eating foods that increase itching, such as coffee, chocolate, spices, cured meat, tea and sharp cheese. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-bowel.html Bowel incontinence is the impaired ability to control gas or stool. Its severity ranges from mild difficulty with gas control to severe loss of control over liquid and formed stools. Bowel incontinence and urinary incontinence tend to get worse with age. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-bowel.html The main symptoms of bowel incontinence are: - involuntary flatulence, i.e. loss of control over gas, which is unintentionally released. - anal and rectal incontinence, i.e. the inability to control the muscles of the anal sphincter and the ano-rectal canal. The nerve endings located in these areas help the brain to control gas and stool. If the nerves or the muscles in these areas are damaged, bowel incontinence may occur. - passive incontinence, i.e. the absence of the stimulus to defecate. People suffering from passive incontinence do not realize that their rectum is full. Due to such impaired sensitiveness, stool is expelled unwittingly. -overflow incontinence due to colon blockage. This condition is caused by impacted stool in the colon, which in turn prevents other stool from passing. In this case stool can only be expelled in a liquid form, thus leading to a difficulty in controlling leakage of stool. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-bowel.html There are many causes of incontinence. Injury during childbirth is one of the most common causes. These injuries may cause a tear in the anal muscles, as well as a damage to the nerves supplying the anal muscles. Bowel incontinence may also be caused by damages due to anal operations or traumatic injury to the tissue surrounding the anal region. Some diseases, such as diabetes, stroke, epilepsy, spina bifida and Parkinson's disease may also contribute to an impaired bowel control. Some individuals experience loss of strength in the anal muscles as they age, hence impaired control of their sphincter. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-bowel.html Mild problems may be treated very simply with dietary changes, the use of some constipating medications and with simple home exercises that may strengthen the anal muscles. More severe problems need to be treated surgically. If bowel incontinence is caused by an inflammation within the rectum (e.g. colitis), the triggering disease should be treated first. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-absecess.html An anal abscess is an infected cavity filled with pus found in the anal region. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-abscess.html An abscess is usually associated with symptoms of pain and swelling around the anus. Individuals may also experience fatigue and fevers. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-abscess.html An abscess results from an acute infection of a small gland just inside the anus, when bacteria or foreign matter enters the tissue through the gland. Certain conditions, such as colitis or other inflammation of the intestine, can sometimes make these infections more likely. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-abscess.html An abscess is treated by making an opening in the skin near the anus to drain the pus from the infected cavity and thereby relieve the pressure. Often, this can be done in the doctor's office using a local anaesthetic. A large or deep abscess may require hospitalization and the assistance of an anaesthesiologist. Hospitalization may also be necessary for patients prone to more serious infections, such as diabetics or people with decreased immunity. If properly treated, anal abscesses won't recur repeatedly. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-fistula.html An anal fistula is almost always the result of a previous abscess (see description above). Just inside the anus there are small glands. When these glands get clogged, they may become infected and an abscess can develop. A fistula is a small tunnel that forms under the skin and connects a previously infected anal gland to the skin on the buttocks outside the anus. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-fistula.html Symptoms related to the fistula are the same as the ones associated with the abscess, and include pain (which is sometimes combined with swelling in the affected area), irritation of skin around the anus, feeling poorly in general and sometimes fever. Fistulae can remain dormant, without any symptoms, for many years before showing themselves. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-fistula.html After an abscess has been drained, a tunnel may persist connecting the anal gland from which the abscess arose to the skin. In these cases, a fistula generally develops 4-6 weeks after the abscess has been drained, sometimes even months or years later. A fistula may also develop from a misdiagnosed/mistreated anal rhagas, which becomes infected and shows itself outside the anus. The presence of a fistula is generally indicated by persistent drainage from the outside opening. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-fistula.html Surgery is necessary to cure an anal fistula. Fistula surgery usually involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter. In most cases fistula surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis. Treatment of a deep or extensive fistula may require a short hospital stay. As for anal abscesses, if properly treated fistulae won't recur repeatedly. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/patients-testimonies.html The day after the surgery I went for a brief walk, and in the evening I had dinner at some friends', sitting comfortably for the first time. Before the surgery I was so scared, because some acquaintances had told me about the severe pain and the great discomfort they had felt after a surgery performed with conventional methods. With this procedure I felt no pain at all!  Giovanni da Siena My life was sheer hell! I had to reduce my social activities drastically, since I could no longer smile because of the severe pain, the great discomfort and the embarrassment I used to feel. After this surgery I started my normal life again... Valentino da Salsomaggiore I was terrified to undergo a surgery, because many friends of mine had told me about their suffering. I overcame my fear, and now I'm satisfied. After this surgery performed with the THD method I resumed my usual activities very quickly!  Carla da Trento http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/press-release.html Il Giornale - Italy (29th November 2008) Space for day hospital surgery. The traditional and traumatic method for haemorrhoid treatment needs to be used only for the most serious cases. A new mini-invasive and painless method for treating haemorrhoids gains popularity among coloproctologists. Il Resto del Carlino - Italy (16th April 2008) A new and micro-invasive method gains popularity among patients all over Italy Il Giornale di Vicenza - Italy (24th May 2005) Innovative surgical method for haemorrhoids treatment Russian newspaper - Russia (31st January 2008) Russian newspaper Israeli magazine - Israel (2007) Article edited by Dr. Daniel Duek and published by the Rambam Hospital, Huifa. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/videos.html Programme TG2 Salute (Rai 2) Interview with Dr. Carlo Ratto - April 2008 Programme Sabato e Domenica (Rai Uno) Interview with Dr. Carlo Ratto - April 2007 http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/scientific-papers.html Transanale-Hämorrhoiden-Dearterialisation (THD) und Hämorrhoidal-Arterien-Ligatur (HAL): Evaluation der minimal-invasiven Therapie des Hämorrhoidalleidens (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=232) Authors:: M. Lienert, O. Horstmann, Dusseldorf Source: Coloproctology, 30. Jahrgang, Heft 1, Januar 2008 Transanal Hemorrhoidal dearterialisation: non-excisional surgery for the tratment of haemorrhoidal disease. (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=234) Authors:: P. P. Dal Monte, C. Tagariello, P. Giordano, E. Cudazzo, A. Shafi, M. Sarago, M. Franzini Source: Techniques in Coloproctology, Volume 11 - Number 4 - December 2007 The Treatment of Haemorrhoids. Guidelines of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (www.SICCR.org) (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=233) Authors:: Donato F. Altomare, Antonietta Roveran, Giuseppe Pecorella, Fabio Gaj, Ezio Stortini Source: Dis. Colon Rectum, 2006 May Doppler-Guided Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation is a valid treatment option for II-III degrees haemorrhoidal disease (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=236) Authors:: Aldo Infantino, Luca Amadio, Roberto Bellomo, Carlo Alberto Tonizzo, Giovanni Romano, Franco Bianco, Concetto Salafia, Donato Altomare, Pierpaolo Dal Monte, Maria Saragò, Carlo Tagariello Source: Proceedings of 1st Congress of SICCR - Monduzzi Editore Dearterializzazione emorroidaria transanale doppler guidata (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=231) Authors:: Carlo Tagariello, Pier Paolo Dal Monte, Maria Sarago Source: Chirurgia Italiana 2004, Vol. 56 n. 5 Settembre-Ottobre 2004 Doppler guided ligation of the hemorrhoidal arteries. Report of experiences with 248 patients (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=235) Authors:: Lienert M., Ulrich B. Source: Dtsch Med. Wochenschr. 2004 Apr. 23; 129 (17): 947-50 Comparison of early and 1- year follow- up results of conventional hemorrhoidectomy and hemorrhoid artery ligation: a randomized study (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=230) Authors:: Bursics A., Morvay K., Kupcsulik P., Flautuer L. Source: Int. J. Colorectal Dis., 2004 Mar.; 19(2):176 -80. Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization is an alternative to operative hemorrhoidectomy (http://www.thdlab.co.uk/index.jsp?idz=8075 lang=eng id=229) Authors:: Norman Sohn, Jeffrey S. Aronoff M.D. Frank S. Cohen M.D. and Michael A. Weinstein Source: The American Journal of Surgery, Volume 182, Issue 5, Pages 515-519 November 2001 http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/partners/doctors/doctors-associates.html http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/what-are-condyloma.html Anal warts are benign tumours caused by viruses of the human papilloma virus family. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/symptoms-condyloma.html Anal warts first appear as tiny spots, evident to the touch, which are not associated with specific symptoms. These spots later turn into pink/whitish fungiform and/or cluster outgrowths (known as "cockscombs"). These growths can grow larger, spread and degenerate into malignant tumours if not removed. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/causes-condyloma.html Anal warts are mainly transmitted through sexual contact, both direct and indirect. Only in a small percentage of cases they develop without any sexual intercourse. Homosexuals are most likely to suffer from anal warts. Warts often spread rapidly and grow larger. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/anorectal/diseases/treatments-condyloma.html A proper treatment should be started even though warts are very small, since this disease rarely heals spontaneously. Warts may be frozen with liquid nitrogen or locally removed (with laser, a scalpel or an electrosurgical knife). Local application of podophyllum may also help. The proper treatment is chosen after a careful coloproctological examination, depending on the number and exact location of warts being treated. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/products-thd.html THD Surgy Maxi Medium Proctoscopes Large Proctoscopes Sterile anoscopes and proctoscopes Medium Anoscopes Large Anoscopes Pediatric Anoscopes THD SL illuminator with accessories THDSpon THD SL Accessorie http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/pediatric-anoscopes-thd.html THD Pediatric Truncated Anoscope Ref.800011 Min. batch 90 pcs Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures, but for applications through tight and hypertonic sphincters. 3 gravity feed boxes with 30 products each. THD Pediatric Bevelled Anoscope Ref.800012 Min. batch 90 pcs Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures, but for applications through tight and hypertonic sphincters. 3 gravity feed boxes with 30 products each. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/thdl-accessories.html THD SL End Tip Ref.880004 Min. batch 1 pcs. A metal end tip both for the SL fiber-optic cable and for any Storz-type connection. The End Tip can be sterilized in autoclave, steris, plasma or ETO. THD Fiber - Optic Cable 08 Ref.880002 Min. batch 1 pcs. A glass fiber, light-guided cable leads the light from SL Illuminator to the inner part of the devices of the surgical and diagnostic lines, through the SL End Tip, thus the lighting of the operative area is optimal. This fiber-optic cable can be sterilized in steamed autoclave, steris, plasma or ETO. THD Penlight and Fitting Ref.800037 Min. batch 1 pcs. A unique system composed of a lighting pen and its own fitting for a proper connection to the devices of the diagnostic line in the outpatient clinic (non sterile). Handy and user friendly without the need of a fiber-optic lighting system. The ultimate product for the outpatient examination or E.R. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/thd-spon.html THDSpon Ref.800050 Min. batch 1 box with 20 pcs. THDSpon is a compressed surgical hemostatic sponge, manufactured from sterile absorbable gelatine, to be used in anorectal surgical .procedures. THDSpon absorbs approximately 40 • 50 times its weight of physiological liquids and adheres easily to the bleeding site. The uniform porosity of THDSpon guarantees a favorable hemostasis. THDSpon is • non-toxic • non allergenic •non-immunogenic • non-pyrogenic and meets the biocompatibility requirements as per EN ISO 10993 standards. Indications: Anorectal surgery - suitable to better facilitate post-operative hemostasis. Packaging: One box containing 20 sponges, each in plastic case. Eight THDSpon are included in the THD BOX. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/large-proctoscopes-thd.html THO Large Truncated Proctoscope Ref.800002 Min. batch 45PCS Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. It reaches the distal rectum Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THO Large Bevelled Proctoscope Ref.800006 Min. batch 45PCS Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. It reaches the distal rectum Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THD Large Fenestrated Proctoscope Ref.800007 Min. batch 45PCS Fitted with a rectangular fenestration in the distal end, such to increase the direct vision of a specific portion of the rectum and to make possible operative procedures on selected areas prolapsing into the fenestration. Possible use: To be used fordiagnosticexaminations or procedures in the operating room, like biopsies or excision of polyps. It reaches the distal rectum. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/large-anoscopes-thd.html THO Large Truncated Anoscope Ref. 800017 Min. batch 45PCS Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THO Large Bevelled Anoscope Ref. 800018 Min. batch 45PCS Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THD Large Fenestrated Anoscope Ref. 800019 Min. batch 45PCS Fitted with a rectangular fenestration in the distal end, such to increase the direct vision of a specific portion of the anal canal and to make possible operative procedures on selected areas prolapsing into the fenestration. Possible use: To be used for diagnostic examinations or procedures in the operating room, like biopsies or excision of polyps. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/medium-anoscopes-thd.html THD Medium Truncated Anoscope Ref.800014 Min. batch 45PCSPossible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THD Medium Bevelled Anoscope Ref.800015 Min. batch 45PCSPossible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THO Medium Fenestrated Anoscope Ref.800016 Min. batch 45PCS Fitted with a rectangular fenestration in the distal end, such to increase the direct vision of a specific portion of the anal canal and to make possible operative procedures on selected areas prolapsing into the fenestration. Possible use: To be used for diagnostic examinations or procedures in the operating room, like biopsies or excision of polyps. Packaging: 3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/anoscopes-proctoscopes.html Sterile anoscopes and proctoscopes Quality and innovation are the fundamental characteristics of the complete range of THD anoscopes and proctoscopes for surgical use. They are wholly designed and made in Italy to suit the specialist requirements and the patient needs. Steriie anoscopes and proctoscopes are available with various lengths and diameters (large, medium, pediatric) and can be easily identified by the practical handle color code. Depending on their specific use, the end tip configurations also change. On this basis they are subdivided into: • truncated • bevelled • fenestrated Packed into the handy gravity feed box, every anoscope and proctoscope is sealed and sterile These devices are the only ones in polycarbonate. The high quality of this material provides a very transparent, unbreakable, smooth edge product, with a tapered and ergonomic shape, which is light and atraumatic. Excellent visibility and lighting is assured thanks to the patented connection to THD SL and is adaptable to other light sources. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/illuminator-accessories.html THD SL illuminator with accessories Ref.800051 Min. batch 1 pcs.The SL (Shining Light) Illuminator is an electronic equipment that used in combination with the medical devices of the diagnostic and surgical lines (anoscopes, proctoscopes and Surgy) allows the illumination of the operative area, thanks to a light source with an adjustable power output. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/medium-proctoscopes-thd.html THD Medium Truncated Proctoscope Ref.800008 Min. batch 45PCS Possible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. It reaches the distal rectum.Packaging: 3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THO Medium Bevelled Proctoscope Ref.800009 Min. batch 45PCSPossible use: To be used in the operating room before and after surgical procedures. It reaches the distal rectum.Packaging: 3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products each. THO Medium Fenestrated Proctoscope Ref.800010 Min. batch 45PCS Fitted with a rectangular fenestration in the distal end, such to increase the direct vision of a specific portion of the rectum and to make possible operative procedures on selected areas prolapsing into the fenestration.Possible use: To be used for diagnostic examinations or procedures in the operating room, like biopsies or excision of polyps. It reaches the distal rectum. Packaging:3 gravity feed boxes with 15 products eacH. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/products/hospidyn/thd-surgy.html THD Surgy Maxi Ref.800004 Min. batch 24PcsTHD Surgy Mini features the same benefits and applications of the THD Surgy Maxi, but the smaller dimensions make the introduction of this device even easier. Its use is recommended an patients presenting a sphincter hypertone or stenosis.Packaging: One master box containing 3 gravity feed boxes, with 8 products each. THD Surgy Maxi Ref.800005 Min. batch 24Pcs THD Surgy Maxi is an ideal device for ail diagnostic and operative needs n proctology. Its use facilitates the assessment and treatment of all oroctological conditions including hemorrhoids, fistulas, anal fissure, ccndylomas, polyps, low cancers and other mucosal lesions. Eight pieces are included in the THD 30X.Packaging: One master box containing 3 gravity feed boxes, with 8 products each. http://www.thdhellas.gr/en/labmethod/thdmethod/profile-hospidyne.html Hospidyne S.A. is a shared capital company, member of a group of companies, with turnover of 6,2 million € in 2008 and budget of 8,4 million € in 2009. It has been ISO 9001 certified by TUV Cert in June 2006, is an active member of the Athens Chamber of Commerce, and the American – Hellenic Chamber of Commerce. The commercial personnel of the company consists of: Athens area: 7 product specialists plus 1 ophthalmic products Salonica area: 3 product specialists Crete: 1 product specialist Western Greece:1 product specialist 1 Field Sales Manager and 1 Commercial Manager plus 2 agents for Central Greece and private sector. Total: 17 sales and marketing persons. Currently we are promoting and have the distribution for: KIMBERLY – CLARK, USA: Advanced Medical Care products TELEFLEX (TAUT, WECK,PILLING WECK, DEKNATEL,PLEUR-EVAC) USA: Surgical Products. MEDIFLEX, USA: Surgical Instruments. LINA MEDICAL, Denmark: Laparoscopic products – electrosurgery products. LAMIDEY-NOURY - France: Electrosurgical Units. HUMAN – MED, Germany: Medical equipment for General, Neuro, Gyn and Uro Surgey. SOERING – Germany: Electro-surgery units and products. THD – Italy: Transanal Haemorrhoidal Dearterialisation products. OLYMPUS – Gyrus, Japan (Crete Western Greece): Energy sources and disposable for use in General Surgery, GYN and URO . MICROSULIS– U.K.: Microwave ablation instrumentation and ancillary products. OPTCLA – China: Laparoscopic and Disposable trocars and hand instruments. CHANGZHOU KANGDI, China: Disposable Stapling Products. DI.PRO MEDICAL - Italy: Surgical Mesh . TRISTEL – U.K.: Chemical Disinfectants. Ocuseal – USA: Ophthalmic Microbial Barrier. Our company is very experienced with surgical, medical and critical product lines since the entire upper management is coming from leading multinationals and has already been trained and has trading experience with all types of products, mainly surgical products. Hospidyne has already participated in almost 600 public tenders in the 3 years of its operation with full territorial coverage of the Greek and Cyprus markets. Our Partners have great experience in the markets of Middle East, Turkey, Africa and South Africa and therefore, our company could also function as a trading and distribution center for this area. In addition, our company is financially supported by premium Greek banks thus, we already have: 1.The team in place 2.Functioning company, financially stable and, 3.Technical and commercial expertise to guarantee the commercial success of medical products for the Greek, Cyprus, Middle East and Balkan markets.