Our Summary

This research paper analyzes how effective a traditional Chinese medicine technique known as moxibustion is in dealing with difficulty in urinating (known as postoperative urinary retention or POUR) after surgeries that involve the rectum and anus (for example, hemorrhoid removal). Moxibustion involves burning dried plant materials, or “moxa”, near the skin to stimulate various points in the body.

The researchers looked at 34 studies where patients who had undergone such surgeries were either given moxibustion treatment or the usual care. They found that patients who received moxibustion were more likely to see an improvement in their symptoms and urinate more quickly after treatment compared to those who received usual care.

However, the researchers suggest that more studies are needed to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What is moxibustion and how is it used in traditional Chinese medicine?
  2. How effective is moxibustion in treating postoperative urinary retention after rectal and anal surgeries according to the research?
  3. Are further studies recommended to confirm the effectiveness of moxibustion for postoperative urinary retention after rectal and anal surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering a hemorrhoidectomy to be aware of the potential risk of postoperative urinary retention and recommend discussing options such as moxibustion therapy with their healthcare provider to help alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery.

Suitable For

Hemorrhoidectomy is typically recommended for patients who have severe or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments such as dietary modifications, over-the-counter medications, or rubber band ligation. Patients who experience symptoms such as severe pain, bleeding, itching, or difficulty with bowel movements may benefit from hemorrhoidectomy.

Additionally, patients with large external hemorrhoids that are causing significant discomfort or patients with internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed and cannot be pushed back into the rectum 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 specific situation.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.
  2. Patient consults with a healthcare provider who diagnoses the hemorrhoids and recommends a hemorrhoidectomy.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative consultations, tests, and preparations for the surgery.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the hemorrhoidectomy surgery, which involves the removal of the hemorrhoids.
  2. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and swelling in the anal area post-surgery.
  3. Patient is prescribed pain medication and given instructions on post-operative care, including diet and hygiene.
  4. Patient may experience difficulty in urinating (POUR) as a common complication after rectal and anal surgeries.
  5. Patient may receive moxibustion treatment as a traditional Chinese medicine technique to help improve symptoms of POUR.
  6. Patient experiences relief from symptoms and improvement in urination after receiving moxibustion treatment.
  7. Patient continues to follow up with healthcare provider for post-operative care and monitoring of recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hemorrhoidectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after a hemorrhoidectomy?
  3. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after the surgery to prevent future hemorrhoids?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or pain management options available besides surgery?
  5. How long do the effects of moxibustion treatment typically last?
  6. Are there any specific side effects or risks associated with moxibustion treatment?
  7. How many sessions of moxibustion treatment are typically recommended for postoperative urinary retention?
  8. Will I need to see a specialist or seek additional follow-up care for moxibustion treatment?
  9. Are there any dietary or lifestyle recommendations I should follow during moxibustion treatment?
  10. How can I track my progress and determine if moxibustion treatment is effective for my postoperative urinary retention?

Reference

Authors: Liu CF, Chien LW. Journal: J Perianesth Nurs. 2023 Dec;38(6):881-891. doi: 10.1016/j.jopan.2023.01.020. Epub 2023 Aug 16. PMID: 37589632