Our Summary

This study looked at the results of a specific type of surgery (LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy) for hemorrhoids in patients of different age groups. They collected data from patients who had this surgery between January 2015 and May 2017. Of the 1238 patients in the study, 1075 were younger than 65, and 163 were 65 or older. The study found that all patients, regardless of age, were able to handle the procedure without issues related to anesthesia. They also found no significant differences between the younger and older groups in terms of sex, hemorrhoid severity, operation time, length of hospital stay, post-surgery pain, use of pain medication, overall post-surgery complications, readmission to the hospital, repeat surgeries, and follow-up appointments. In other words, the surgery was equally safe and effective for patients regardless of their age.

FAQs

  1. What is LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy and who were the patients involved in the study?
  2. Were there any age-related complications or differences found among the patients who underwent LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy?
  3. What were the main findings of the study regarding the safety and effectiveness of LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to carefully follow post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include taking prescribed pain medication as directed, keeping the surgical area clean and dry, avoiding straining during bowel movements, eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a period of time. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery progress.

Suitable For

Based on the findings of this study, hemorrhoidectomy may be recommended for patients of all age groups, as long as they are suitable candidates for the procedure. Hemorrhoidectomy is typically recommended for patients with severe or persistent hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical ointments, and sitz baths. It may also be recommended for patients with thrombosed hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids that cause significant discomfort or bleeding. Ultimately, the decision to undergo hemorrhoidectomy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can assess the individual patient’s condition and determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of hemorrhoids such as itching, pain, discomfort, bleeding, and swelling.
  2. Patient may try conservative treatments such as over-the-counter creams, sitz baths, dietary changes, and increased fiber intake.
  3. If conservative treatments are not effective, patient may consult with a doctor for further evaluation and recommendation for surgery.
  4. Doctor determines that hemorrhoidectomy is necessary and explains the procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery process to the patient.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the hemorrhoidectomy procedure, either through traditional surgery or minimally invasive techniques such as LigaSure hemorrhoidectomy.
  2. Patient may experience some pain, discomfort, swelling, and bleeding in the days following the surgery.
  3. Patient is prescribed pain medication and instructed on how to care for the surgical site.
  4. Patient may need to take time off work or limit activities during the recovery period.
  5. Patient has follow-up appointments with the doctor to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  6. Over time, the symptoms of hemorrhoids should improve, and the patient should experience relief from the initial symptoms that led to the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hemorrhoidectomy may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of the surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during that time?
  3. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  5. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery?
  6. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, such as work or exercise?
  7. Will I need to take pain medication after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  8. What follow-up appointments will be necessary after the surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments for hemorrhoids that I should consider?
  10. How experienced are you in performing hemorrhoidectomy procedures, and what is your success rate?

Reference

Authors: Chen CW, Lu TJ, Hsiao KH. Journal: BMC Gastroenterol. 2021 Oct 29;21(1):413. doi: 10.1186/s12876-021-01969-1. PMID: 34715801