Effect of Aelwa (Aloe barbadensis Mill.) in fissure in Ano: A prospective study

Abstract

BackgroundFissure in ano is a common benign anorectal disorder that occurs exclusively in midline, predominantly posterior midline. Fissures in ano generally arise with local trauma caused by hard stool and hypertonic anal sphincter, and affects more than 10% of patients attending proctology clinics. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of Aelwa (Aloe barbadensis Mill.) in fissure in ano. Material and methodsAnal fissure patients at the National Institute of Unani Medicine in the age group 18–60 years, were included in the study. The test drug was given to patient in the form of fine powder packed in small sterilized container and asked to sprinkle the powder over the fissure two times a day. Assessment was carried on weekly basis for 3 weeks (7th, 14th and 21st day) on the basis of subjective and objective parameters. Post treatment follow-up carried out at 1 week after completion of trial (on 28th day). ResultsThe mean age at presentation was 32.03 years, and male to female ratio was 16:14. The typical presentation was painful defecation and bleeding per rectum. Pain scores significantly reduced on 7th, 14th and 28th days with this treatment (p < 0.001). Healing of fissure, control of bleeding and reduction in anal spasm were seen in all patients with p-value< 0.001. Hepatic and renal functions were unaltered in all patients. One patient in our study was HbsAg positive. ConclusionTopical application of Aelwa (Aloe barbadensis Mill.) appears to be effective, safe and less expensive in the management of anal fissures in this study. There were no adverse effects from the drug, nor any associated complications.