Our Summary

This research paper compares the long term results and quality of life for patients who underwent two different types of hemorrhoid surgery: circular stapled hemorrhoidopexy and Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy. The study looked at patients who had these surgeries between 2000 and 2010. The results showed that the need for additional treatment after the surgery was about the same for both groups. Also, the majority of patients from both groups said they would have the surgery again if needed. The study found no significant differences in long-term pain, quality of life, or function between the two groups. This is one of the longest studies comparing these two types of surgery, and it suggests that both surgeries have similar long-term outcomes and effects on quality of life.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of hemorrhoid surgeries compared in this research paper?
  2. Did the study find any significant differences in long-term pain, quality of life, or function between the Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy and circular stapled hemorrhoidopexy?
  3. Based on this study, would the majority of patients undergo the same hemorrhoid surgery again if needed?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to promote proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include taking prescribed pain medication, keeping the surgical area clean and dry, eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation, and avoiding strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended hemorrhoidectomy typically have severe symptoms that are not relieved by conservative treatments such as dietary modifications, topical medications, and lifestyle changes. These symptoms may include:

  • Severe pain and discomfort
  • Bleeding that does not improve with conservative treatment
  • Prolapse of hemorrhoids (when the hemorrhoids protrude from the anus)
  • Chronic constipation or difficulty with bowel movements
  • Recurrent or large hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments

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

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patients typically experience symptoms of hemorrhoids such as rectal bleeding, itching, pain, and discomfort.
  2. Patients may try conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical medications, and sitz baths to alleviate symptoms.
  3. If conservative treatments are ineffective, patients may be referred to a colorectal surgeon for further evaluation and consideration of surgical options.
  4. The surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the severity of the hemorrhoids and discuss the best surgical approach for the patient.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patients undergo the surgical procedure, either circular stapled hemorrhoidopexy or Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy, as determined by the surgeon.
  2. Following surgery, patients may experience pain, discomfort, and swelling in the anal area, which can be managed with pain medications and sitz baths.
  3. Patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions, including dietary recommendations and activity restrictions.
  4. Over the following weeks, patients gradually recover from the surgery, with symptoms improving and the surgical site healing.
  5. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor the healing process and address any concerns or complications.
  6. In the long term, patients may experience improvements in symptoms and quality of life, with a reduced risk of recurrent hemorrhoids.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy surgery?

  2. What is the expected recovery time and what can I do to help speed up the healing process?

  3. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle after the surgery to prevent future hemorrhoids?

  4. How long will it be before I can return to work or resume normal activities?

  5. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow to ensure a successful recovery?

  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?

  7. How many hemorrhoidectomies have you performed and what is your success rate?

  8. Will I need to take any medications after the surgery, and if so, what are the potential side effects?

  9. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my symptoms after the surgery?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Aytac E, Gorgun E, Erem HH, Abbas MA, Hull TL, Remzi FH. Journal: Tech Coloproctol. 2015 Oct;19(10):653-8. doi: 10.1007/s10151-015-1366-6. Epub 2015 Sep 10. PMID: 26359179