Our Summary

This research paper discusses hemorrhoids, a common condition that affects up to one-fourth of all adults. There are many treatments available, from creams and medicines to outpatient procedures and surgeries. However, it’s difficult to determine the best treatment due to the variety of symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. Some newer treatments, like stapling, Ligasure™ excision, and tying off the hemorrhoidal artery, aim to be less harmful while maintaining or improving treatment outcomes. However, these treatments are generally more costly, and existing data suggests that they aren’t necessarily better than traditional treatments like rubber band ligation and surgical removal. The paper concludes that the chosen treatment should be tailored to the individual, taking into account their personal preferences, convenience, and severity of their hemorrhoids.

FAQs

  1. What are some of the newer treatments for hemorrhoids mentioned in the research paper?
  2. Are the newer treatments for hemorrhoids more effective than traditional ones according to the research?
  3. How should the choice of treatment for hemorrhoids be determined according to the research paper?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to make sure to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize discomfort. This may include taking prescribed pain medication, keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Hemorrhoidectomy, or surgical removal of hemorrhoids, is typically recommended for patients who have severe or persistent symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical creams, and rubber band ligation. Patients with large, external hemorrhoids that are causing significant pain, bleeding, or prolapse may also be candidates for hemorrhoidectomy.

Additionally, patients with thrombosed hemorrhoids, which are blood clots that form in external hemorrhoids and cause severe pain and swelling, may require surgical intervention to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Patients who have tried other treatments without success or who have recurrent hemorrhoids that significantly impact their quality of life may also be recommended for hemorrhoidectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and treatment options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before a hemorrhoidectomy, a patient may experience symptoms such as itching, pain, swelling, and bleeding in the anal area. They may have tried conservative treatments such as over-the-counter creams, stool softeners, and sitz baths without relief. They may have also seen a doctor for a physical exam and possibly a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

After a hemorrhoidectomy, the patient will typically experience some pain and discomfort in the anal area for a few days. They may be prescribed pain medications and stool softeners to help with bowel movements. It is important for the patient to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by their doctor, which may include taking sitz baths, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and eating a high-fiber diet.

Over the following weeks, the patient should gradually start to feel better as the surgical site heals. It is important for the patient to attend follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor their recovery and address any concerns. In some cases, the patient may need to make lifestyle changes to prevent future hemorrhoids, such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a hemorrhoidectomy?

  2. What is the recovery time for a hemorrhoidectomy and what can I expect during the recovery process?

  3. Are there any alternative treatments to a hemorrhoidectomy that may be more suitable for my condition?

  4. How successful is a hemorrhoidectomy in treating hemorrhoids in the long term?

  5. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow any specific recommendations after a hemorrhoidectomy?

  6. How experienced are you in performing hemorrhoidectomies and what is your success rate with this procedure?

  7. Are there any specific preparations I need to make before undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy?

  8. Will I need to take any medication or follow a special diet before or after the procedure?

  9. How soon after a hemorrhoidectomy can I resume normal activities, including work and exercise?

  10. Are there any signs or symptoms I should watch out for post-surgery that may indicate complications?

Reference

Authors: Brown SR. Journal: Ther Adv Chronic Dis. 2017 Oct;8(10):141-147. doi: 10.1177/2040622317713957. Epub 2017 Jun 21. PMID: 28989595