Copyright: ©Author(s) 2026. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial (CC BY-NC 4.0) license. No commercial re-use. See permissions. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc.
World J Gastroenterol. Jan 14, 2027; 33(2): 125931
Published online Jan 14, 2027. doi: 10.3748/wjg.125931
Published online Jan 14, 2027. doi: 10.3748/wjg.125931
Comparison of efficacy and safety of different treatment modalities for hemorrhoids: A network meta-analysis
Bin Chen, Xin-Ru Xiong, Zhen-Guo Zhang, Qing-Qing Chen, Department of Proctology, Ningbo Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Ningbo 315100, Zhejiang Province, China
Author contributions: Chen B, Zhang ZG, and Xiong XR designed the research study; Chen B, Zhang ZG, and Chen QQ performed the data analysis and interpretation; Xiong XR and Chen QQ checked and confirmed the authenticity of the raw data; and Chen B, Xiong XR, Zhang ZG, and Chen QQ collected and assembled the data, wrote the manuscript, and read and approved the final version of the manuscript.
AI contribution statement: No AI tools were used to polish the language, assist with formatting, generate research data, interpret results, or formulate conclusions.
Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
PRISMA 2009 Checklist statement: The authors have read the PRISMA 2009 Checklist, and the manuscript was prepared and revised according to the PRISMA 2009 Checklist.
Corresponding author: Bin Chen, PhD, Department of Proctology, Ningbo Hospital of Inte
Received: July 21, 2026
Revised: August 10, 2026
Accepted: October 8, 2026
Published online: January 14, 2027
Processing time: 109 Days and 3.3 Hours
Revised: August 10, 2026
Accepted: October 8, 2026
Published online: January 14, 2027
Processing time: 109 Days and 3.3 Hours
Core Tip
Core Tip: This network meta-analysis of 66 randomized controlled trials involving 8549 patients compares 20 therapeutic modalities for hemorrhoidal disease. LigaSure™ hemorrhoidectomy and the tissue-selecting technique demonstrate the most favorable balance between recurrence control and safety, particularly in severe (grade ≥ III) disease. Rubber band ligation and injection sclerotherapy, though safer, carry substantially higher recurrence risks and are best suited for mild disease or patients who are not surgical candidates. Treatment decisions should be individualized, with grade-based recommendations considered exploratory.