Our Summary

This research aimed to understand the types and frequency of additional medical conditions that can be found when examining tissues removed during hemorrhoid surgeries. The data comes from a 16-year study period (2003-2019) where the researchers discovered other significant medical conditions in about 4.5% of the cases studied. These findings included 7 types of cancer, 54 instances of pre-cancerous tissue changes (anal intraepithelial neoplasias), and 11 harmless conditions. The researchers also noted a recent increase in the detection of severe pre-cancerous changes. For over 70% of patients, this additional condition was a new discovery. The study concludes that examining tissues removed during hemorrhoid surgeries is a valuable practice as it aids in identifying other potential health issues.

FAQs

  1. What was the aim of the research study on hemorrhoid surgeries?
  2. What significant medical conditions were discovered during the examination of tissues removed during hemorrhoid surgeries?
  3. What is the significance of examining tissues removed during hemorrhoid surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include taking prescribed pain medication, using stool softeners to prevent straining during bowel movements, and avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities. It is also important to keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection. Lastly, the doctor may recommend a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated to prevent constipation, which can worsen hemorrhoid symptoms.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hemorrhoidectomy are those who have severe or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to non-surgical treatments such as dietary changes, topical medications, and lifestyle modifications. Hemorrhoidectomy may also be recommended for patients with large external hemorrhoids, thrombosed hemorrhoids, or internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed (protruded outside the anus).

Additionally, patients with complications such as bleeding, thrombosis (blood clots), or strangulation of the hemorrhoid may also require a hemorrhoidectomy. Patients with hemorrhoids that cause significant pain, discomfort, or interfere with daily activities may also be candidates for surgery.

It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and medical history with their healthcare provider to determine if a hemorrhoidectomy is the appropriate treatment option for their condition.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of hemorrhoids such as rectal bleeding, anal itching, and pain during bowel movements.
  2. Patient seeks medical advice and is diagnosed with hemorrhoids through physical examination and possibly other diagnostic tests.
  3. Patient may be prescribed conservative treatments such as topical creams, fiber supplements, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove the hemorrhoids, either through traditional excisional techniques or newer procedures such as stapled hemorrhoidopexy or rubber band ligation.
  2. Recovery period typically involves pain management, dietary changes, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing.
  3. In some cases, tissues removed during the surgery are examined for additional medical conditions, such as cancer or pre-cancerous changes.
  4. If any additional conditions are found, further treatment or monitoring may be recommended by the medical team to address these issues.
  5. Patient continues to follow up with their healthcare provider for long-term management of their overall health and any potential complications related to the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a hemorrhoidectomy procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery period after a hemorrhoidectomy and what can I expect during this time?
  3. Will I need to take any special precautions or follow a specific diet or exercise plan post-surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for a hemorrhoidectomy?
  5. How long do the results of a hemorrhoidectomy typically last, and are there any chances of the hemorrhoids recurring in the future?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure, and what are the potential side effects or risks associated with it?
  7. How many hemorrhoidectomy procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate with this type of surgery?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or habits that I should adopt to prevent future occurrences of hemorrhoids?
  9. Will I need to follow up with you regularly after the surgery, and what signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication?
  10. Can examining tissues removed during the hemorrhoidectomy procedure help to identify any other underlying medical conditions, and what is the likelihood of this happening based on your experience?

Reference

Authors: Navale P, Gonzalez RS, Vyas M. Journal: Hum Pathol. 2021 Mar;109:12-20. doi: 10.1016/j.humpath.2020.11.008. Epub 2020 Nov 24. PMID: 33245989