Our Summary

This study looked at what factors might increase the risk of urinary retention (difficulty fully emptying the bladder) after a specific type of hemorrhoid surgery. The researchers studied over 2,000 patients who had this surgery and found that about 14% of them had trouble urinating afterwards. The study found that men were more likely than women to have this problem, and the risk also increased for older patients and those with a higher body mass index. Patients who had more hemorrhoids removed and those who were given painkillers after surgery were also more likely to experience urinary retention. So, if you’re male, older, overweight, have lots of hemorrhoids removed, or are given painkillers, you’re more likely to have trouble urinating after this type of hemorrhoid surgery.

FAQs

  1. What factors increase the risk of urinary retention after hemorrhoid surgery?
  2. Are men more likely to experience urinary retention after hemorrhoid surgery than women?
  3. Does the risk of urinary retention increase with the number of hemorrhoids removed during surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

To help reduce the risk of urinary retention after a hemorrhoidectomy, your doctor may recommend drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding constipation by eating a high-fiber diet, and staying active to promote regular bowel movements. They may also suggest avoiding certain medications that can exacerbate urinary retention, such as opioids or anticholinergics. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and communicate any concerns or symptoms you experience after surgery.

Suitable For

Hemorrhoidectomy is typically recommended for patients who have severe or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments such as dietary changes, topical medications, or banding procedures. Patients with large, prolapsed hemorrhoids, or those experiencing significant pain, bleeding, or difficulty with bowel movements may be candidates for hemorrhoidectomy. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient.

Timeline

Before hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of hemorrhoids such as pain, itching, swelling, and bleeding.
  2. Patient consults a doctor for diagnosis and treatment options.
  3. Doctor recommends hemorrhoidectomy as a treatment option for severe or persistent hemorrhoids.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation and preparation for surgery.

After hemorrhoidectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes hemorrhoidectomy surgery to remove hemorrhoids.
  2. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and bleeding during the initial recovery period.
  3. Patient is advised to follow post-operative care instructions, including pain management and proper hygiene.
  4. Patient may experience urinary retention as a potential complication, especially if they are male, older, overweight, have more hemorrhoids removed, or are given painkillers.
  5. Patient follows up with their doctor for post-operative check-ups and monitoring of recovery progress.
  6. Patient gradually recovers and experiences relief from hemorrhoid symptoms.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of a hemorrhoidectomy procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery time after a hemorrhoidectomy?
  3. Will I need to take time off work or modify my daily activities during recovery?
  4. What pain management options are available after the surgery?
  5. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make to aid in the healing process?
  6. How likely am I to experience urinary retention after the surgery?
  7. What can I do to reduce the risk of urinary retention?
  8. How will urinary retention be managed if it occurs?
  9. Are there any long-term effects of urinary retention after a hemorrhoidectomy?
  10. When should I follow up with you after the surgery to monitor my recovery process?

Reference

Authors: Jeong HY, Song SG, Lee JK. Journal: Ann Coloproctol. 2022 Feb;38(1):53-59. doi: 10.3393/ac.2021.00304.0043. Epub 2021 Jul 21. PMID: 34284555