Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, pain, and even bleeding.

While most cases of hemorrhoids can be treated with home remedies and lifestyle changes, some situations may require surgical intervention. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about hemorrhoid surgery, including its types, procedure, recovery, and potential risks.

Types of Hemorrhoid Surgery

1. Rubber Band Ligation

Rubber band ligation is one of the most common procedures used to treat internal hemorrhoids. During this procedure, a small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply.

Within a few days, the hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off during a bowel movement.

2. Hemorrhoidectomy

Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove both internal and external hemorrhoids. The surgeon makes incisions around the hemorrhoidal tissue and removes the swollen veins. Hemorrhoidectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia.

3. Hemorrhoidopexy

Hemorrhoidopexy, also known as stapled hemorrhoidectomy, is a less invasive procedure used to treat prolapsed hemorrhoids.

The surgeon uses a circular stapling device to lift and reposition the prolapsed hemorrhoid back into its normal position within the anal canal.

4. Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation

Hemorrhoidal artery ligation, or HAL, is a procedure that involves tying off the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoids. By cutting off the blood supply, the hemorrhoids shrink and eventually resolve.

This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.

Preparing for Hemorrhoid Surgery

Prior to hemorrhoid surgery, your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions to prepare for the procedure. These may include:.

Informing your surgeon about any medical conditions or medications you are taking.
Fasting for a certain period before the surgery, especially if you will receive general anesthesia.
Taking medications as prescribed by your surgeon, such as laxatives or stool softeners, to ease bowel movements.
Arranging for transportation to and from the hospital or clinic on the day of the surgery.

The Hemorrhoid Surgery Procedure

The exact procedure for hemorrhoid surgery varies depending on the type of surgery being performed.

While rubber band ligation is usually an outpatient procedure that can be done in a doctor’s office, other surgeries like hemorrhoidectomy or hemorrhoidopexy may require a hospital stay. Generally, the procedure involves the following steps:.

Anesthesia: You will either be given local, regional, or general anesthesia, depending on the extent and type of surgery.
Preparation: The surgeon will clean the area around the anus and may inject a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Incision or band placement: The necessary incisions will be made, or rubber bands will be placed, depending on the chosen surgical technique.
Removal or repositioning: The hemorrhoids will be either removed or repositioned depending on the surgical technique. Surgeons use various tools and techniques to achieve this.
Closure: The incisions may be closed with sutures or left open to heal naturally.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery period after hemorrhoid surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed. Patients who undergo rubber band ligation usually experience minor discomfort or pain for a couple of days.

Over-the-counter pain medications, warm sitz baths, and fiber-rich diets can help alleviate symptoms during recovery.

Patients who have undergone more extensive procedures like hemorrhoidectomy or hemorrhoidopexy may experience more discomfort and require a longer recovery period.

The surgeon may prescribe pain medications, stool softeners, and topical creams to manage pain and promote healing. It is important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions regarding hygiene, diet, and activity levels to ensure proper healing.

Potential Risks and Complications

Although hemorrhoid surgery is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks and complications. These may include:.

Infection at the surgical site
Excessive bleeding
Delayed healing
Formation of a blood clot in the vein (thrombosis)
Anal stenosis (narrowing of the anal canal)
Urinary retention

It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before deciding to undergo hemorrhoid surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your specific case and guide you through the potential risks and benefits.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoid surgery is often a last resort when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Different surgical techniques are used, ranging from rubber band ligation to more invasive procedures like hemorrhoidectomy.

Prior to surgery, thorough preparation and understanding of the procedure and the recovery process are essential. It is vital to follow post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing. While hemorrhoid surgeries carry some risks, they can effectively treat and alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids, providing much-needed relief.