Doctors For Piles

Piles or hemorrhoids is an anorectal condition that occurs due to swollen veins in the lower anus and rectum. Piles can occur due to a multitude of reasons and are generally not considered to be a serious condition. In fact, some people don't even realize they have them as the condition remains asymptomatic. But, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Bleeding after passing stool
• Itchy bottom
• Lump hanging out of the anus
• Discharge of mucus after passing stool
• Soreness, redness, and swelling around the anus

For mild to moderate cases of the condition, anal piles can be treated through non-surgical alternatives such as lifestyle changes and home remedies for piles. However, severe cases usually require a procedure known as hemorrhoidectomy for effective treatment.

Laser treatment for piles is a medically advanced and minimally invasive anorectal procedure that utilizes a medical-grade laser to shrink and coagulate the anal piles tissue. Laser piles surgery is generally considered to be the best and the most effective treatment for piles. Some benefits of laser piles operation include:

• Minimally invasive
• Short recovery period
• Almost zero chance of recurrence
• Negligible chances of any complications
• Outpatient procedure

If you are struggling with any of the below-given symptoms, a laser piles surgery may be an option for you:

• Persistent Symptoms: Patients struggling with severe or persistent symptoms of piles may be advised to undergo laser hemorrhoid treatment. A laser treatment for piles procedure targets the haemorrhoidal tissue directly to provide relief from symptoms.
• Recurrent Haemorrhoids: As previously mentioned, laser hemorrhoid treatment is considered to be the best and the most effective procedure for piles. It can help relieve various anal piles symptoms such as discomfort, bleeding, and anal-rectum pain. Chances of recurrence after laser piles surgery is almost negligible as well.
• Severe Haemorrhoids: A laser hemorrhoid surgery is considered effective in treating severe piles (Grade II-IV).
• Resistance to Usual Methods: When non-surgical alternatives for hemorrhoid treatment such as home remedies and medications, fail to have a significant impact on piles, your proctologist may recommend you to undergo laser piles surgery.

Piles are primarily categorized into 4 types:External Piles ,Internal Piles ,Prolapsed Piles , andThrombosed Piles .

• External Piles
• External haemorrhoids are lumps of bumps that form around the external opening of the anus. External piles are usually visible and cause symptoms such as pain, itching, and discomfort. In most cases, external hemorrhoids treatment includes non-surgical alternatives such as sitz baths, topical creams, and medications. However, your proctologist may recommend surgery if these non-surgical methods fail to have any significant impact on your condition.
• Internal Piles
• Internal anal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that form deep within the rectum and are not visible or palpable. As there are no pain nerves in the rectum, such cases of piles rarely cause any symptoms and can go away on their own. However, large internal hemorrhoids can cause symptoms such as pain, itching, or a burning sensation. There may be some rectal bleeding as well. In some cases, passing of stool or overstraining can push the internal hemorrhoid and cause it to protrude out of the anal opening as well.
• Prolapsed Piles
• Internal haemorrhoids that start to protrude from the anal opening are known as prolapsed haemorrhoids. Prolapsed haemorrhoids are visible to the naked eye and are sometimes accompanied by pain, burning, and itching. Depending on the severity of your condition, a prolapsed haemorrhoid can be treated through diet, lifestyle changes, rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or piles surgery.
• Thrombosed Piles
• A thrombosed haemorrhoid is an internal or external haemorrhoid in which a blood clot, known as a thrombus, is formed. This type of haemorrhoid usually results when anal piles go untreated and can be a serious complication. Symptoms of thrombosed haemorrhoid include intense pain, burning, itching, redness, and swelling. This type of piles usually requires medical attention. Its main treatment is a surgical procedure known as thrombectomy and is performed separately from a haemorrhoidectomy.

The severity of anal piles is categorized into 4 grades:

• Grade-1
• Grade-I piles is a mild stage of internal piles that do not cause any symptoms. These haemorrhoids are very small and found in the lining of the rectum. In most cases, Grade-I piles can be treated with a non-surgical approach such as lifestyle modifications and home remedies for piles.
• Grade-2
• Grade-II piles are larger than Grade-I may start to protrude from the anus during bowel movements but will return to their initial position. Treatment options fo Grade-II piles include various cure for piles without surgery such as rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, and sclerotherapy.
• Grade-3
• Grade-III piles are hemorrhoids that prolapse during a bowel movement but do not return to their initial position. They may be required to manually push back in afterward. Such cases of haemorrhoids can cause symptoms such as pain, itching, and bleeding around the anus. Treatment options include rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, and sclerotherapy.
• Grade-4
• Grade-IV piles are the most severe case of the condition and can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. In Grade-IV piles, the hemorrhoids remain prolapsed and cannot be repositioned manually. In addition, Grade-IV piles can lead to serious consequences such as thrombosis or strangulation. This level of severity usually requires surgery known as haemorrhoidectomy for treatment.

Before arriving at the hospital, your anorectal specialist will likely instruct you to follow some simple tips and guidelines:

• Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 8 to 12 hours prior to your hemorrhoid treatment. Fasting before surgery is required to make sure that the bowel is kept clean and there are no anesthesia-related complications such as vomiting, nausea, and aspiration.
• Prior to surgery, you may be advised to stop taking certain medications that could put you at an increased risk of complications such as bleeding.
• Take a bath or shower before arriving at the hospital. Do not apply any lotions or perfumes. Do not shave the surgical site yourself, either.
• Leave any ornaments and jewelry you may wear at home. You may also be required to remove any nail polish before arriving at the hospital. You do not need cosmetic items in a hospital, and they may even interfere with the surgery.
• Before your piles surgery, you may be required to empty your colon using laxatives or an enema. This process is performed to ensure there is no fecal matter in the colon, and may even cause an infection.
• Stop smoking or drinking alcohol for at least 6-8 weeks before surgery. Alcohol and smoking can leave you dehydrated and may even slow down your recovery process.
• Wear comfortable clothes that do not rub up against your skin and are easy to remove. This could include a loose-fitting T-shirt and sweatpants.
• Plan ahead and ensure you have someone to drive you home or accompany you in a cab. After your laser piles surgery, you will likely experience some of the anesthesia after-effects. This could cause symptoms such as blurry vision, nausea, dizziness, and confusion. It is imperative that you avoid driving or traveling alone in such a state.

Prior to surgery, the proctologist will likely perform a series of simple diagnostic tests to assess and evaluate your overall health. In most cases, preoperative diagnosis for anal piles concludes with a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) and visual inspection. In a DRE test, the proctologist will closely examine the anus and rectum and may insert a gloved, lubricated finger to check for abnormalities, swelling, or lumps. Alongside, your proctologist will likely ask you some questions regarding your symptoms, surgical history, medical history, and changes in your bowel movements. If you are on a pre-existing prescription, it is advised to let your proctologist know about it as well. In most cases, diagnosis for piles concludes here, and no further tests are required. However, to better understand your condition, your surgeon may perform some additional examinations as well, such as:

• Anoscopy: An anoscopy is a commonly performed anorectal diagnostic test that uses a small tube called anoscope to view the lining of your anus and rectum. This diagnostic test is usually performed to visualize the anal canal and rectum.
• Proctoscopy: Often referred to as rigid sigmoidoscopy, a proctoscopy is a procedure to examine the insides of the rectum and anus. A proctoscope is a hollow tube that is used to take tissue samples for biopsies to look for anal hemorrhoids.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Sigmoidoscopy is another commonly performed diagnostic test that is performed to check the sigmoid colon or the lower part of your large intestines. Sigmoidoscopy is performed using a thin, flexible tube called sigmoidoscope that is inserted into your anus and moved through your rectum.
• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy test will allow your surgeon to examine the colon or the large intestines to check the abnormalities inside it.

Laser surgery for piles is an effective and non-invasive surgical procedure that is typically performed under spinal or general anesthesia. The entire procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and does not take more than 30 minutes to complete. The surgery will only begin once you are under the complete influence of the anesthesia.

A laser piles operation usually begins with a proctoscope being inserted into the anus. A proctoscope is a thin, tube-like surgical instrument that is attached with a light and a lens at its end. This proctoscope will help the surgeon locate the end arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoids. The surgeon will gently and slowly rotate the proctoscope clockwise until the end arteries are found. Once located, a laser fiber is inserted into the anus using the proctoscope. The surgeon then applies short bursts of high-intensity laser to destroy these arteries and cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoids. As a result, the hemorrhoids shrink in size and slowly wither off on their own.

Once the procedure is completed, you will be moved to a recovery area, where you will be kept under observation. If your condition is stable and there are no immediate postoperative complications, you will be able to go home on the same day of the surgery.

After your laser piles operation, you will be moved to a recovery area. Some side effects and symptoms you may experience almost immediately after your laser piles surgery are given below:

• Pain: After the surgery, you may experience slight around the surgical site. This pain in considered normal and will likely subside on its own in a few hours. Your doctor may also prescribe you some painkillers for pain management.
• Itching: Some itching and discomfort in the anal area are common after a laser piles surgery. However, it is imperative that you avoid scratching. Instead, clean the area gently and use ointments and creams recommended by your doctor.
• Bleeding: Mild to moderate bleeding after your laser piles surgery is to be expected and will likely subside in a few hours. If it continues to persist or worsen over time, consult with your healthcare provider.
• Fecal Incontinence: After laser piles surgery, you may experience some fecal incontinence. To minimize its effects as much as possible, stay hydrated and opt for a fiber-rich diet.

A complete recovery after a laser piles surgery usually takes anywhere 2-4 weeks. The exact recovery time, however, may vary depending on your overall health and the quality of your postoperative care. After the surgery, some minor side effects such as mild pain, discomfort and bleeding are to be expected. These side

effects are not considered indicative of any complications and should subside on its own in a few days after surgery. To minimize chances of any postoperative complications as much as possible, your proctologist may instruct you to make some easy-to-follow steps and guidelines, such as:

• Keep the Anal Region Clean: Every time you perform a bowel movement, make sure to take a shower or sitz bath. A sitz bath is a shallow and warm bath that you sit in to relive discomfort in your perineal and anal region. Soaking your anal region in warm water soothes the anal sphincter and will help increase blood flow through the area. This promotes better healing and reduce pain, itching, and irritation.
• Limit Your Physical Activity: Make sure not to perform any strenuous activites or exercises that exert too much pressure on your surgical site. These include exercises such as weight lifting, running or bicycle rides. However, it is imperative to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Low-impact exercises such as walking are advised and may even help boost recovery.
• Take Prescribed Medications: After the surgery, your surgeon may prescribe you with some medications to ensure smooth recovery and minimize chances of an infection as much as possible. Make sure to take these medications as instructed by your healthcare provider. If you do not understand any part, consult with your healthcare provider.
• Apply Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the anal region after your laser piles surgery can help alleviate pain and swelling you may be experiencing. Simply wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the anal area for a few minutes.
• Follow Correct Sitting Techniques: Make sure to use a donut-shaped pilloe when sitting down. This will help reduce the pressure being exerted on the surgical site and will provide you with some comfort.
• Follow a Nutritious Diet: Diet plays a major role when it comes to recovery after a surgical procedure. Avoid junk, spicy, oily and processed foods as much as you can after your laser piles surgery. Such foods can alter your bowel movement and may even lead to constipation or diarrhea. These complications can cause you further discomfort and hinder your recovery.

Some benefits that are commonly associated with a laser piles operation are given below:

• Minimally Invasive: A laser hemorrhoid treatment is a highly precise and minimally invasive anorectal procedure. The procedure involves using a high-intensity laser to destroy the blood vessels, causing piles completely.
• No Need for General Anesthesia: Laser hemorrhoid treatment is performed under local anesthesia, meaning only certain parts of your body will be temporarily numbed. Hence, there is no risk of any side effects or complications that are associated with general anesthesia.
• Minimal Bleeding: One of the biggest advantages of laser treatment for piles surgery is its ability to provide effective results without the need of any major incisions. As a result, there is minimal blood loss associated with the procedure. Due to its precise nature, laser piles surgery does not affect the tissue surrounding the anus either.
• Quick Treatment: The entire procedure of laser piles surgery does not take more than 20-30 minutes to complete. It is also an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to go home on the same day of the surgery.
• Faster Recovery: Compared to conventional methods, laser treatment for piles surgery provides patients with a shorter recovery period. In most cases, a complete recovery after laser piles procedure takes anywhere from 2-4 weeks. Most patients are able to return to their daily routines in just 2-3 days after surgery.
• No Open Wound or Sutures: In a laser treatment for piles, there are no sutures involved. Chances of infection are almost zero and does not require any dressing changes. As a result, the patient is more comfortable and has minimal pain.

Chances of any complications after laser piles surgery are almost zero, and the procedure is typically considered to be completely safe. However, as is the case with any surgical procedure, complications can still happen. Some complications that are associated with laser piles surgery are given below:

• Excessive Pain: Mild to moderate pain after your laser piles surgery is to be expected and do not require any medical attention. However, if the pain seems to persist and worsen over time, it could be a sign of complication. In such a case, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible and proceed as instructed.
• Infection: A laser treatment for piles surgery is performed under sterile conditions, and your surgeon will take several precautions to make sure the chances of infection are as minimal as possible. However, despite the safety measures, an infection can still occur. If you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, pus draining from the surgical site, or red streaks, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. If caught early, most infections can be treated with antibiotics and topical creams.
• Anal Stenosis: Anal stenosis is a rare but serious complication that can occur after laser piles surgery. In this condition, the anal canal responsible for passing stool becomes too small or does not relax properly. This complication can lead to functional problems such as difficulty passing stool.
• Fecal Incontinence: Fecal incontinence is a condition in which the patient becomes unable to control their bowel movements. As a result, stool starts to leak from the rectum without warning. Fecal incontinence can range from occasional leakage to a complete loss of bowel control. If you are experiencing symptoms of fecal incontinence, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
• Reaction to Anesthesia: Some common side-effects of anesthesia, such as nausea and dizziness, are to be expected after your laser piles surgery and are considered normal. They do not require medical attention and should subside on their own in a few days after surgery. However, if these side effects continue to persist or worsen over time, contact your healthcare provider at the earliest.