Our Summary

This research paper investigates whether taking a warm water sitz bath (where you sit in a few inches of warm water) early after hemorrhoid surgery can help prevent patients from not being able to urinate (urinary retention) and reduce their pain.

The study was conducted at a medical center’s surgical ward with 64 patients who had undergone surgery for advanced hemorrhoids. The patients were divided into two groups: one group took a warm water sitz bath six hours after their surgery (the experimental group), while the other group took the bath one day after surgery as is typically done (the control group). The researchers then measured if the patients needed a catheter to urinate or if they had a significant amount of urine left in their bladder after urinating. They also asked the patients to rate their pain level.

The results showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of urinary retention. However, the patients who took the early warm water sitz bath reported significantly less pain compared to the other group. Therefore, the researchers concluded that taking a warm water sitz bath early after hemorrhoid surgery is a safe and effective way to reduce pain, but it doesn’t seem to prevent urinary retention. They suggest that nurses could offer this early bath to patients to help manage their pain after surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the main focus of this research paper on hemorrhoid surgery?
  2. Can taking a warm water sitz bath early after hemorrhoid surgery prevent urinary retention?
  3. How does taking a warm water sitz bath early after hemorrhoid surgery affect pain levels?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy to consider taking a warm water sitz bath early after surgery to help reduce pain. This can be a safe and effective way to manage discomfort during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Based on this study, patients who have undergone surgery for advanced hemorrhoids may be recommended to take a warm water sitz bath early after the procedure to help reduce pain. However, it is important to note that this intervention may not necessarily prevent urinary retention.

Hemorrhoidectomy is typically recommended for patients who have severe or advanced hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical treatments, or rubber band ligation. These patients may experience symptoms such as severe pain, bleeding, itching, and difficulty with bowel movements.

Patients who are otherwise healthy and have a good overall medical condition may be considered as candidates for hemorrhoidectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine if surgery is the best course of action for their individual case. Additionally, patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, as well as the post-operative care that will be necessary for a successful recovery.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of hemorrhoids such as rectal bleeding, itching, discomfort, and pain.
  2. Patient consults with a healthcare provider who recommends conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical creams, and sitz baths.
  3. If conservative treatments are ineffective, patient may be recommended for hemorrhoidectomy surgery.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes hemorrhoidectomy surgery to remove the hemorrhoids.
  2. Patient is given post-operative instructions by the healthcare provider, including pain management strategies and wound care.
  3. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty with urination in the days following surgery.
  4. Patient may be prescribed pain medication and instructed to take sitz baths to help with pain relief and wound healing.
  5. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for post-operative care and monitoring.
  6. Research suggests that taking a warm water sitz bath early after surgery can help reduce pain but may not prevent urinary retention.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hemorrhoidectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after hemorrhoidectomy and what can I expect during this time?
  3. Will I need any pain medication after the surgery, and if so, what type of pain relief will be prescribed?
  4. Are there any specific instructions I need to follow before and after the surgery to ensure the best outcome?
  5. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, such as work and exercise?
  6. Will I need a follow-up appointment after the surgery, and if so, when should I schedule it?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary modifications I should make to prevent future hemorrhoids from developing?
  8. What are the signs of complications that I should watch out for after the surgery, and when should I seek medical attention?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that can help manage pain and promote healing after hemorrhoidectomy?
  10. How can I best prepare for the recovery period at home, and are there any specific supplies or equipment I should have on hand?

Reference

Authors: Liao WC, Cheng YY, Hsu CK, Chiu YC, Chiu HY, Chang SC, Hu SH. Journal: Int J Nurs Stud. 2024 Jun;154:104765. doi: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2024.104765. Epub 2024 Mar 31. PMID: 38642473