What is Hemmorhoidectomy?
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure done to remove
hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins found inside or outside
of the anus that are caused by increased pressure such as
straining when constipated or during pregnancy. Hemorrhoids
cause bleeding, clots, itching and pain.
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Effects of Hemmorhoidectomy
This procedure is done to relieve the patient of bleeding,
itching and painful hemorrhoids.
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Candidates for Hemmorhoidectomy
Hemorrhoidectomy is appropriate for patients who have very
large internal hemorrhoids; internal hemorrhoids that still
cause symptoms after non-surgical treatment; large external
hemorrhoids that cause significant discomfort and make it
difficult to keep the anal area clean; and lastly, having
both internal and external hemorrhoids.
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Your
Consultation
During your consultation, you will be advised by your
doctor to undergo blood and urine tests a couple of days
before the procedure. You will also be reminded not to eat
or drink 12 hours before the procedure. Other instructions
in preparation of the Hemorrhoidectomy will be discussed by
the doctor at this time.
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The Hemmorhoidectomy
Procedure
Before
the procedure, the patient will be given general anesthesia
to prevent feeling any pain during the Hemorrhoidectomy.
The doctor will then make an incision around the
hemorrhoid. The swollen vein inside the hemorrhoid is tied
to prevent any bleeding, and then the hemorrhoid is
removed. The surgical area can either be sewn closed or
kept open. Medicated gauze is used to cover the wound.
Surgery can be performed with a scalpel, cautery pencil or
laser.
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Recovery
The patient is expected to feel pain after the
Hemorrhoidectomy and some pain medication would be
prescribed for this. To avoid the risk of excessive
bleeding, the patient is advised not to take any aspirin or
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen or
Naproxen for the next ten days after the procedure. In the
first bowel movement after the procedure, expect some
bleeding. That is normal.
The patient can opt for pain medication, ice packs applied
on the anal area, and warm water baths to relieve any pain
and discomfort. The use of antibiotics might also be
suggested by the doctor to relieve pain and prevent
infection.
To
avoid recurrence of hemorrhoids, it is recommended that the
patient should take stool softeners or fiber-containing
foods that can help with bowel movement. A week after the
procedure, the patient should return for a follow-up exam
and then again two weeks after the first checkup.
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Risks
Hemorrhoidectomy runs the risk of bleeding, pain and an
inability to urinate after the procedure. Other minor risks
after a Hemorrhoidectomy are hematoma, recurrence of
hemorrhoids, loss of control for bowel and bladder,
infections, stool trapped in the anal canal, narrowing of
the anal canal, and abnormal passage between the anus and
another area.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
Q:
What are hemorrhoids?
A:
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in the tissues found at the
opening of the anus causing bleeding, itching or pain.
Clots may also be a result of this condition and your bowel
might treat it like stool and push it out.
Q:
What causes hemorrhoids?
A:
Hemorrhoids is caused by straining due to frequent
constipation or childbirth.
Q: How is
the Hemorrhoidectomy performed?
A:
Before the procedure, the patient will be given general
anesthesia to prevent feeling any pain during the
Hemorrhoidectomy. The patient will be put in a position
exposing the rectal area, and the doctor will then make an
incision around the hemorrhoid. The swollen vein inside the
hemorrhoid is then tied to prevent any bleeding, and that is
when the hemorrhoid is removed. The surgical area can be
sewn closed or kept open. Medicated gauze is then used to
cover the wound.
Q:
What happens after the Hemorrhoidectomy?
A:
The doctor will advise you on what to do during recovery,
how to minimize any pain felt, and suggest that you take
fiber in your meals for less chances of straining leading to
a recurrence of hemorrhoids.
Q:
When can I resume my normal activities?
A:
There will be pain felt after the procedure but it can be
minimized. Patients are advised to not do any heavy lifting
for the first 10 days. Full recovery may vary with patients
and can go from two weeks to two months.
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