Our Summary

Hemorrhoids are a very common health issue that are usually characterized by painless bleeding during bowel movements. There are two types: internal and external. External hemorrhoids often don’t require treatment unless they become extremely painful or cause discomfort. On the other hand, internal hemorrhoids can be treated with medication and non-surgical methods. However, if these methods fail or the hemorrhoids are severe, surgery may be required. There are several minimally invasive surgeries available to reduce post-surgery pain. This paper also discusses how to manage hemorrhoids in complicated cases, such as during pregnancy, in patients with weakened immune systems, liver disease, or those taking blood thinners, and in cases where the hemorrhoids become suddenly painful or strangulated. The paper also discusses potential future treatments for hemorrhoids.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of hemorrhoids and how are they typically treated?
  2. What options are available if non-surgical methods or medications fail to treat internal hemorrhoids?
  3. How are hemorrhoids managed in complicated cases such as pregnancy or in patients with liver disease or weakened immune systems?

Doctor’s Tip

One important tip a doctor might give a patient about hemorrhoidectomy is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include taking pain medication as prescribed, eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and keeping the surgical area clean and dry. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery after your hemorrhoidectomy surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hemorrhoidectomy include those with severe or chronic internal hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, fiber supplements, topical medications, or rubber band ligation. Patients with large external hemorrhoids that are causing significant pain or discomfort may also be candidates for surgery. Additionally, patients with prolapsed hemorrhoids, which are hemorrhoids that have descended outside the anus and cannot be pushed back in, may require surgery to correct the problem. Patients who have experienced complications such as blood clots in the hemorrhoids or skin tags due to previous hemorrhoid issues may also benefit from hemorrhoidectomy. It is important for patients to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before a hemorrhoidectomy, a patient may experience symptoms such as pain, bleeding, itching, and discomfort during bowel movements. They may have tried conservative treatments such as dietary changes, over-the-counter medications, or in-office procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy.

After a hemorrhoidectomy, the patient will likely experience some pain and discomfort in the days following the surgery. They may be prescribed pain medication and instructed on how to care for the surgical site. It is important for the patient to follow their doctor’s post-operative instructions, including avoiding strenuous activities and taking sitz baths to help with healing.

Over the next few weeks, the patient should gradually start to feel better as the surgical site heals. They may still experience some discomfort and bleeding during bowel movements, but this should improve over time. It is important for the patient to follow up with their doctor for any concerns or complications that may arise.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after a hemorrhoidectomy can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition. However, with proper care and follow-up, most patients can expect to see improvement in their symptoms and quality of life after undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of hemorrhoidectomy procedure do you recommend for my specific case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time after the surgery?
  4. How can I manage pain and discomfort during the recovery period?
  5. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a special diet after the surgery?
  6. How soon after the surgery can I return to normal activities, such as work or exercise?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of?
  8. What follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for surgery?
  10. How successful is this type of surgery in treating hemorrhoids?

Reference

Authors: Lohsiriwat V. Journal: World J Gastroenterol. 2015 Aug 21;21(31):9245-52. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i31.9245. PMID: 26309351