Our Summary

This study aimed to compare the results of using traditional surgery and laser surgery to treat hemorrhoids in patients who also have inflammatory bowel disease. The research was conducted at Zagazig University Hospitals over a year and included 48 patients with both conditions. The patients were split into two groups: one group of 24 patients who received laser treatment and another group of 24 who were treated with traditional surgery.

The results showed that the group who received laser treatment had better overall outcomes than the group who underwent traditional surgery. This included shorter operation times, less pain and for a shorter duration, less post-surgery anal discharge, a quicker return to work, and higher patient satisfaction. Laser treatment was also found to be more effective in terms of less post-surgery bleeding and anal narrowing. However, there was a higher occurrence of leftover hemorrhoids in the laser treatment group.

In conclusion, this study found that laser treatment is generally better than traditional surgery for treating hemorrhoids in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

FAQs

  1. What was the aim of the study conducted at Zagazig University Hospitals regarding hemorrhoid treatment?
  2. According to the study, what are the advantages and disadvantages of using laser treatment for hemorrhoids compared to traditional surgery?
  3. How does the effectiveness of laser treatment compare to traditional surgery for patients with both hemorrhoids and inflammatory bowel disease?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to discuss the option of laser treatment with their healthcare provider. Laser treatment has been shown to have better outcomes in terms of less pain, shorter recovery time, and higher patient satisfaction compared to traditional surgery. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease may benefit from this less invasive and more effective treatment option. It’s important to have a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment approach for individual circumstances.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for hemorrhoidectomy typically have severe symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, fiber supplements, and topical medications. They may experience chronic pain, bleeding, prolapse, or other complications associated with hemorrhoids. Additionally, patients with inflammatory bowel disease may be recommended for hemorrhoidectomy if they have persistent hemorrhoid symptoms that are not improving with medical management.

Timeline

Before the hemorrhoidectomy, the patient likely experiences symptoms such as rectal bleeding, itching, discomfort, and pain. They may have tried conservative treatments such as topical creams, dietary changes, and sitz baths without success. The patient then consults with a colorectal surgeon who recommends a hemorrhoidectomy as the best course of treatment.

After the hemorrhoidectomy, the patient will undergo the surgical procedure, either traditional surgery or laser surgery. The recovery period typically involves some pain and discomfort, as well as potential side effects such as bleeding, swelling, and difficulty with bowel movements. The patient will need to follow post-operative care instructions, including taking pain medication, eating a high-fiber diet, and avoiding strenuous activities.

Over time, the patient should experience a gradual improvement in their symptoms, with the hemorrhoids shrinking and eventually disappearing. They should also notice a decrease in pain and discomfort, as well as a reduction in bleeding and itching. With proper care and follow-up appointments with the surgeon, the patient should have a successful outcome and be able to resume their normal activities without the burden of hemorrhoids.

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 traditional surgery for hemorrhoids?
  2. How does laser surgery differ from traditional surgery in terms of procedure, recovery time, and effectiveness?
  3. Am I a suitable candidate for laser surgery based on my specific medical history and condition?
  4. What is the expected outcome and success rate of laser treatment for hemorrhoids in patients with inflammatory bowel disease?
  5. How long is the recovery period after laser surgery, and when can I expect to return to normal activities?
  6. What post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be necessary after undergoing laser treatment for hemorrhoids?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent future hemorrhoid flare-ups after the surgery?
  8. What are the alternatives to surgical treatment for hemorrhoids, and how do they compare in terms of effectiveness and recovery time?
  9. How experienced is the surgical team in performing laser treatment for hemorrhoids, and what is their success rate with similar cases?
  10. Can you provide me with any additional information or resources to help me better understand the benefits and risks of laser surgery for hemorrhoids?

Reference

Authors: Zakaria R, Amin MM, Abo-Alella HA, Hegab YH. Journal: Surg Endosc. 2025 Jan;39(1):249-258. doi: 10.1007/s00464-024-11351-3. Epub 2024 Nov 7. PMID: 39511001