Our Summary

This research study looked into whether the hardness or softness of stool affects the pain experienced by patients when they go to the bathroom for the first time after having surgery for hemorrhoids. The researchers asked patients to rate their stool using the Bristol Stool Form Scale and to rate their pain using the visual analog scale. They then used statistical methods to see if there was a relationship between the two. The results showed that there is indeed a connection: the softer the stool, the less pain the patients experienced. Therefore, the researchers suggest that doctors should try to help patients avoid hard stool after having hemorrhoid surgery. The study was approved by the Japan Medical Association’s Ethics Review Committee and registered with the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials.

FAQs

  1. What was the main focus of this research study on hemorrhoidectomy?
  2. How did the researchers determine the relationship between stool hardness and pain after hemorrhoid surgery?
  3. What is the main conclusion of the study about stool softness and pain post-hemorrhoid surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to increase their fiber intake and stay well-hydrated to help soften stool and reduce pain during bowel movements. Additionally, using stool softeners or laxatives as recommended by the doctor can also help prevent constipation and discomfort. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the doctor to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who have severe or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, fiber supplements, and topical medications are typically recommended for hemorrhoidectomy. This surgical procedure is usually considered as a last resort when other treatments have failed to provide relief. Additionally, patients with thrombosed external hemorrhoids, large internal hemorrhoids that are causing symptoms such as bleeding or prolapse, or patients with complications such as strangulated hemorrhoids may also be recommended for hemorrhoidectomy.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, itching, and discomfort.
  2. Patient consults with a doctor who may recommend conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical creams, and sitz baths.
  3. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, the doctor may recommend a hemorrhoidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the hemorrhoids.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative consultations and tests to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes hemorrhoidectomy surgery, which may be done through various techniques such as traditional excisional surgery or minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation.
  2. Patient is typically discharged the same day or after a short hospital stay and is given post-operative care instructions.
  3. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following the surgery.
  4. Patient is advised to follow a soft diet, drink plenty of fluids, and take prescribed pain medications to manage discomfort.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may need to take time off work to recover.
  6. Patient has a follow-up appointment with their doctor to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  7. Patient may experience changes in bowel movements and may be advised to take stool softeners or fiber supplements to prevent constipation and straining.
  8. Patient’s symptoms gradually improve over time, with complete healing typically taking a few weeks to a month.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  3. What is the recovery process like after hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  4. How long will it take to fully recover from hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  5. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make to help with recovery?
  6. How can I manage pain and discomfort after hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  7. Will I need to take any medication after surgery?
  8. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  9. Are there any warning signs or symptoms I should watch out for after surgery?
  10. Is there anything else I should know or consider before undergoing hemorrhoidectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Yano T, Kabata D, Kimura S. Journal: J Anus Rectum Colon. 2022 Jul 28;6(3):168-173. doi: 10.23922/jarc.2021-052. eCollection 2022. PMID: 35979270