Our Summary
This research paper discusses a study conducted on the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery. The study was conducted on two groups of patients who underwent this surgery. One group was treated with a medication called diltiazem, applied directly to the anal region three times a day. The second group received a placebo, or a substance that has no therapeutic effect. The healing process was monitored for six weeks using digital photography.
The results showed that the patients who received diltiazem healed faster than those who received the placebo. On average, the diltiazem group healed in just over three weeks, whereas the placebo group took almost four weeks to heal. By the third week, nearly 73% of the diltiazem group had healed, compared to just over 46% in the placebo group. Therefore, the study suggests that diltiazem could be beneficial in speeding up the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery.
FAQs
- What is the main factor that delays surgical wound healing after hemorrhoidectomy?
- How does the healing time of patients treated with topical diltiazem compare to those who received a placebo?
- What percentage of patients in the diltiazem group had healed wounds by week three compared to the control group?
Doctor’s Tip
One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to consider using a topical medication like diltiazem to help promote faster wound healing and reduce anal sphincter spasm. This can potentially reduce the overall recovery time and improve the healing process after surgery.
Suitable For
Patients who are experiencing prolonged healing after hemorrhoidectomy may be recommended for treatment with topical diltiazem to help improve wound healing. This includes patients who have undergone closed hemorrhoidectomy and are experiencing anal sphincter spasm contributing to delayed healing. This study found that patients treated with diltiazem had a significantly faster healing time compared to those who received a placebo, with a higher percentage of patients in the diltiazem group experiencing full wound healing by week three.
Timeline
Before hemorrhoidectomy:
- Patient experiences symptoms of hemorrhoids such as pain, itching, and bleeding.
- Patient consults with a healthcare provider who recommends hemorrhoidectomy as a treatment option.
- Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation and preparation for surgery.
After hemorrhoidectomy:
- Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to remove the hemorrhoids.
- Patient may experience post-operative pain and discomfort for a few days after the surgery.
- Patient is advised to follow post-operative care instructions such as taking pain medication, using stool softeners, and maintaining good hygiene.
- Patient attends follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider to monitor healing and address any concerns.
- Patient gradually experiences relief from hemorrhoid symptoms as the surgical wounds heal over time.
- Patient may require additional treatments or interventions if complications arise during the healing process.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What is a hemorrhoidectomy and why is it recommended for me?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with a hemorrhoidectomy?
- How long is the recovery time after a hemorrhoidectomy?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
- Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital after the surgery?
- What can I expect in terms of pain management after the hemorrhoidectomy?
- Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery?
- How soon can I resume normal activities, such as work or exercise, after the hemorrhoidectomy?
- What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate complications after the surgery?
- Are there any alternative treatments or procedures available for my hemorrhoids?
Reference
Authors: Rodríguez-Wong U, Rodríguez-Medina U, Medina-Murillo GR. Journal: Rev Gastroenterol Mex (Engl Ed). 2019 Jan-Mar;84(1):119-122. doi: 10.1016/j.rgmx.2018.10.001. Epub 2018 Dec 24. PMID: 30591198