Our Summary

This study compared two methods of managing pain after hemorrhoid surgery: (1) taking painkillers on a regular schedule and (2) taking painkillers only when pain was felt. Over 5000 patients who had undergone hemorrhoid surgery participated. The study found that patients who took painkillers on a regular schedule reported less pain than those who only took them when needed. Patients on a regular painkiller schedule also used fewer opioids (a strong category of painkillers) and other types of painkillers. The study also found that patients who were younger and had a higher body mass index (BMI) reported more pain after surgery. The results suggest that taking painkillers on a regular schedule can be a more effective way of managing pain after hemorrhoid surgery.

FAQs

  1. What were the two methods of managing pain after hemorrhoid surgery compared in the study?
  2. What was the conclusion of the study regarding the effectiveness of taking painkillers on a regular schedule versus only when needed after hemorrhoid surgery?
  3. What factors were found to contribute to more pain after hemorrhoid surgery according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy to take painkillers on a regular schedule rather than waiting until the pain is felt. This can help manage pain more effectively and reduce the need for stronger pain medications. Additionally, younger patients and those with a higher BMI may experience more pain after surgery, so it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations for pain management.

Suitable For

Patients who are experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or prolapse of hemorrhoids that do not respond to non-surgical treatments are typically recommended for hemorrhoidectomy. Additionally, patients with large external hemorrhoids, thrombosed hemorrhoids, or internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed and cannot be pushed back in may also be candidates for surgery. Patients with recurrent hemorrhoids or those with complications such as anal fissures or fistulas may also benefit from hemorrhoidectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and treatment options with a healthcare provider to determine if surgery is the best course of action for their specific situation.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as rectal bleeding, itching, pain, and discomfort
  • Patient may try conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical creams, and sitz baths
  • If conservative treatments are not effective, patient may be recommended for hemorrhoidectomy

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to remove hemorrhoids
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and bleeding in the days following surgery
  • Patient is prescribed painkillers to manage post-operative pain
  • Patient is advised to take painkillers on a regular schedule to effectively manage pain
  • Patient may gradually resume normal activities and diet as they recover
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon may be scheduled to monitor healing and address any complications

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a hemorrhoidectomy and why is it recommended for my condition?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a hemorrhoidectomy?
  3. What is the recovery process like after a hemorrhoidectomy?
  4. What type of pain management options are available to me after the surgery?
  5. Is it recommended to take painkillers on a regular schedule or only when needed after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative pain management techniques or medications that I can consider?
  7. Will I need to take opioids or other strong painkillers after the surgery?
  8. How long can I expect to experience pain or discomfort after the hemorrhoidectomy?
  9. Are there any specific factors, such as age or BMI, that may affect my pain levels after the surgery?
  10. How can I best prepare for the surgery and optimize my recovery process?

Reference

Authors: Susmallian S, Aviv I, Babis I, Segal E. Journal: Chirurgia (Bucur). 2024 Jun;119(3):247-259. doi: 10.21614/chirurgia.2024.v.119.i.3.p.247. PMID: 38982903