Our Summary

This research paper analysed two different methods of treating severe hemorrhoids: traditional hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal of hemorrhoids) and PPH (a procedure that reduces the hemorrhoids). The study looked at over 1000 patients with severe hemorrhoids who were treated with one of these methods at a hospital.

The researchers found that there was not a significant difference in how often the hemorrhoids came back within a year between the two treatment groups. However, the PPH method was found to be better at easing anal pain, stopping postoperative bleeding, reducing difficulties in urination, and reducing pressure in the anal area when resting. It was also found that those who underwent PPH had less blood loss during surgery, shorter operation time, faster wound healing, and fewer wound infections than those who had traditional hemorrhoidectomy.

The study concludes that PPH is a useful and safe method for treating severe hemorrhoids, and it can reduce complications after surgery. However, the study was only conducted in one hospital, so more research from multiple centers is needed to confirm these results.

FAQs

  1. What methods were compared in the study for treating severe hemorrhoids?
  2. What were some of the benefits of the PPH method over traditional hemorrhoidectomy as found in the study?
  3. What were the main conclusions of the study regarding the effectiveness and safety of the PPH method for treating severe hemorrhoids?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy to consider the PPH method as it may result in less pain, bleeding, and complications post-surgery compared to traditional hemorrhoidectomy. It is important to discuss the options with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your individual situation. Additionally, following your doctor’s post-operative care instructions, including proper hygiene and taking prescribed medications, can help promote a smooth recovery.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended for hemorrhoidectomy are those with severe hemorrhoids that have not responded to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical medications, and lifestyle modifications. Patients who experience significant pain, bleeding, and discomfort from their hemorrhoids may be candidates for hemorrhoidectomy. Additionally, patients with large, external hemorrhoids or internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed may also be recommended for hemorrhoidectomy.

It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine if hemorrhoidectomy is the best course of action for their individual case.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of hemorrhoids such as rectal bleeding, itching, pain, and swelling.
  2. Patient seeks medical attention and is diagnosed with severe hemorrhoids.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and preparations for surgery.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes hemorrhoidectomy surgery to remove the hemorrhoids.
  2. Patient experiences post-operative pain, bleeding, and discomfort.
  3. Patient follows post-operative care instructions such as taking pain medication, using stool softeners, and maintaining proper hygiene.
  4. Patient has follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor healing and address any complications.
  5. Patient experiences relief from symptoms and improved quality of life as the hemorrhoids heal and resolve.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a hemorrhoidectomy procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery time after a hemorrhoidectomy, and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the procedure to help with healing and prevent future hemorrhoids?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure, and are there any risks associated with it?
  5. How many hemorrhoidectomies have you performed, and what is your success rate with this procedure?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures for severe hemorrhoids that I should consider before deciding on a hemorrhoidectomy?
  7. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight after the procedure, or can it be done on an outpatient basis?
  8. How long will the results of the hemorrhoidectomy last, and is there a chance that the hemorrhoids could come back in the future?
  9. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow to ensure a successful recovery?
  10. Can you provide me with any information or resources to help me better understand the procedure and what to expect before, during, and after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Zhang C, Zhang W, Xu J. Journal: Medicine (Baltimore). 2022 Mar 18;101(11):e29100. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000029100. PMID: 35356944