Haemorrhoids, derived from Greek meaning flowing of blood (Haima = Blood, Rhoos = flowing), are an enlargement of the internal anorectal venous plexus; which have afflicted humans for time immemorial. Literature on haemorrhoids dates back to Egyptian times (1200 BC). However, prior to Hippocrates (circa 460 - 370BC) ‘haemorrhoids’ referred to any ano-rectal pathology associated with bleeding. Hippocrates theorised haemorrhoids were favourable, and preventative of diseases including pleurisy and perhaps even leprosy [1]. Throughout the years, non-operative management has been a mainstay of treatment, including stool softeners, bulking agents and advice re defecatory habits. In Egyptian Eras salves were composed of sweet beer and myrrh [1]. Basic principles of haemorrhoid treatment remain unchanged, however Modern Medicine allows surgeries to be less fraught with complications. Haemorrhoidal ligation has been practiced by Galen (circa 130 - 210AD) [2]. Office based procedures remain popular, with banding and injection of a sclerosing agent being commonplace in treatment of smaller haemorrhoids. Hippocrates teachings outline open excision and cautery of haemorrhoids [2]. Certainly the procedural details now vary and newer technology such as ultrasound, or circular staplers, are incorporated into current surgeries. References: 1. Graney, M. J., & Graney, C. M. (1980). Colorectal surgery from antiquity to the modern era. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum, 23(6), 432–441. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf02586797 ‌ 2. Laufman, H. (1941). The history of hemorrhoids. The American Journal of Surgery, 53(2), 381–387. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0002-9610(41)90323-9