Haemorrhoids - When To Opt For A Surgery?

The anus is a highly vascular area, and these blood vessels dilate, leading to a condition called hemorrhoids, which are external and protrude into the anus (external) or into the rectum (internal). While most hemorrhoids are self-limiting and can be managed with conservative care, about 10% to 20% of the hemorrhoids may require surgical removal.

When is surgery needed?

1. Thrombosed hemorrhoid
2. Prolapsed hemorrhoids
3. Relentless bleeding (maybe painless also)
4. Recurrent hemorrhoids

Types of surgery required

The exact location of the hemorrhoid and the severity will dictate the type of surgery required. Read on to know some of the common techniques are used to treat hemorrhoids.

1. MIPH (minimal invasive surgery for haemorrhoids): Also known as hemorrhoidopexy, it involves the use of surgical staples to keep a recurrently prolapsing hemorrhoid in place. These staples ensure they do not prolapsed again. It also cuts off blood supply, so the growth is curtailed. This is done as a same-day procedure under local or general anesthesia. This is the procedure of choice for grade 2 and grade 3 bleeding piles. It is a totally painless procedure and is widely accepted by patients.
2. Hemorrhoidectomy: It is done under general anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia in people where conservative and in-office procedures have failed. The hemorrhoids are often large, prolapsed, and cause bleeding. This requires hospitalization and may need about a week to recover completely. This was the standard procedure earlier. It is still very useful for prolapsed large piles.

Post surgery, there could be rectal pain and discomfort. In addition, the patient should drink water adequately, eat a high-fiber diet, and use a stool softener to prevent a recurrence.