Treatment

Hemorrhoidectomy

Overview

Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove hemorrhoids which are swollen veins in the rectum or anus. This treatment is usually recommended for severe hemorrhoids that do not respond to medications or non-surgical treatments. There are different techniques used including stapled hemorrhoidectomy which involves using a stapler to remove or reposition the hemorrhoids. The goal of this procedure is to relieve symptoms such as pain, bleeding and discomfort improving your overall quality of life.

Why is Hemorrhoidectomy Required?

• A hemorrhoidectomy is necessary when:
• Hemorrhoids are large, painful or bleeding excessively.
• Non-surgical treatments such as medications, dietary changes or banding fail.
• Chronic discomfort or difficulty in passing stool.
• External or prolapsed hemorrhoids that interfere with daily activities.
• Severe cases where hemorrhoids cause recurrent infections or blood clots.

Doctors may recommend hemorrhoidectomy surgery when lifestyle changes and other treatments do not provide relief.

Key Advantages of Hemorrhoidectomy

• Permanent Relief: Unlike other treatments, hemorrhoidectomy healing is long lasting.
• Eliminates Recurrence: Removes hemorrhoids completely reducing the chances of regrowth.
• Improved Comfort: Relieves pain, swelling, itching and bleeding.
• Better Bowel Movements: Reduces straining and discomfort while passing stool.
• Quick Recovery: Modern techniques, like stapled hemorrhoidectomy offer faster healing with less discomfort.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Hemorrhoidectomy Treatment?

Before hemorrhoidectomy procedure, you should:

• Consult with a specialist to discuss your condition and determine the best surgical approach.
• Follow dietary instructions, including a high fiber diet and plenty of fluids to keep bowel movements soft.
• Stop certain medications if advised by your doctor.
• Take prescribed bowel preparation solutions the night before surgery.
• Arrange transportation for the day of surgery as you may not be able to drive afterward.

How is Hemorrhoidectomy Performed?

The hemorrhoidectomy surgery is done under anesthesia ensuring you do not feel pain during the procedure. There are different techniques including:

• Traditional Hemorrhoidectomy: The surgeon removes hemorrhoids using a scalpel or laser.
• Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy Procedure: A circular stapler is used to remove hemorrhoids and reposition tissue causing less pain and faster healing.
• Hemorrhoidectomy Banding: A rubber band is placed around hemorrhoids cutting off their blood supply so they shrink and fall off naturally.

The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids.

What You Can Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure

• You may need to fast for a few hours.
• Anesthesia will be administered to numb the area or put you to sleep.
• Your doctor will explain the procedure, risks and recovery expectations.

2. During the Procedure

• The surgeon will remove hemorrhoids using surgical tools or a stapler.
• In stapled hemorrhoidectomy a stapler is used to reposition hemorrhoidal tissue.
• The area is then sutured or left open to heal naturally.

3. After the Procedure

• You will be monitored for a few hours before discharge.
• Some pain and swelling are expected but medications can help manage discomfort.
• Hemorrhoidectomy healing takes a few weeks but most people recover well.

Risk and Potential Complications

Although hemorrhoidectomy treatment is safe, some risks include:

• Pain and discomfort: Pain levels vary and a hemorrhoidectomy pain scale can help measure your discomfort.
• Bleeding: Mild bleeding is common but usually stops within a few days.
• Infection: Rare but antibiotics can help prevent complications.
• Urinary retention: Some patients may experience difficulty urinating after surgery.
• Hemorrhoidectomy complications: In rare cases complications like anal stenosis (narrowing of the anal opening) may occur.

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients experience complete relief from symptoms after recovery.
• Hemorrhoidectomy recovery typically takes 2 to 4 weeks depending on the procedure used.
• Stapled hemorrhoidectomy recovery is generally faster than traditional surgery.
• Minimal risk of hemorrhoid recurrence offering long term benefits.