5 Surgeries to Treat Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are a common source of discomfort and embarrassment . While lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments can provide relief, surgery is sometimes necessary to alleviate severe symptoms and prevent complications. 

We’ll be exploring the various surgical options available for treating haemorrhoids, providing detailed insights into each procedure to help you understand your options better.

What is a Haemorrhoid?

Haemorrhoids, also commonly known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort and bleeding. They can occur internally within the rectum or externally around the anus. Haemorrhoids are quite common, especially among adults, and can vary in severity from mild to severe.

Symptoms of haemorrhoids can include itching, discomfort, pain, swelling, and bleeding during bowel movements. In some cases, a painful hard lump may even form around the anus. While haemorrhoids are not usually dangerous, they can significantly impact a person's quality of life, especially if left untreated.

How Can You Get Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids can develop for several reasons. One of the primary causes is increased pressure in the lower rectum, which can occur due to straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, or chronic constipation or diarrhoea. Other contributing factors include obesity, pregnancy, a low-fibre diet, and heavy lifting.

Pregnancy is a notable cause because the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the colon, leading to haemorrhoids. Similarly, chronic constipation can result from a low-fibre diet, causing straining during bowel movements, which can exacerbate the condition. Ageing also plays a role, as the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken and stretch over time.

Types of Surgeries to Treat Haemorrhoids

When haemorrhoids become severe and do not respond to non-surgical treatments, various surgical options are available. Each type of surgery aims to remove or reduce haemorrhoids, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient's quality of life. Here, we will delve into five common surgical procedures used to treat haemorrhoids: Hemorrhoidectomy, Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy, Rubber-Band Ligation (Banding), Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD), and Sclerotherapy.

Hemorrhoidectomy

This method is typically recommended for patients with large internal haemorrhoids or those with both internal and external haemorrhoids causing significant discomfort and bleeding. During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions around the haemorrhoid tissue and removes the swollen veins.

This procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, spinal anaesthesia, or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient's condition and preference. Hemorrhoidectomy is highly effective, providing long-term relief from haemorrhoid symptoms. However, it can be associated with post-operative pain and a longer recovery period compared to less invasive procedures.

The recovery period can vary but usually takes two to four weeks. Patients are advised to keep the area clean, avoid straining during bowel movements, and follow a high-fibre diet to prevent constipation. Pain management, including prescribed medications and sitz baths, can help alleviate discomfort during the healing process.

Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy

Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy, also known as stapled haemorrhoidopexy, is a less invasive surgical option for treating haemorrhoids. This procedure is typically used for internal haemorrhoids that have prolapsed, meaning they have slipped down from their usual position and are protruding from the anus. 

During the procedure, the surgeon uses a special stapling device to reposition the haemorrhoid tissue and cut off its blood supply. This reduces the haemorrhoid's size and alleviates symptoms. Unlike traditional hemorrhoidectomy, a stapled hemorrhoidectomy does not involve cutting away the haemorrhoid tissue, which usually results in less pain and a quicker recovery time.

Patients undergoing stapled hemorrhoidectomy typically experience less post-operative pain and can return to normal activities sooner. However, there is a slightly higher risk of haemorrhoid recurrence compared to traditional hemorrhoidectomy. Despite this, many patients prefer stapled hemorrhoidectomy due to its minimally invasive nature and shorter recovery period.

Rubber-Band Ligation (Banding)

Rubber-Band Ligation, commonly referred to as banding, is a widely used non-surgical procedure for treating internal haemorrhoids. It is considered less invasive and can be performed in a doctor's office without the need for anaesthesia. This procedure is most effective for haemorrhoids that are not severely prolapsed.

During the procedure, the doctor places a small rubber band around the base of the haemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. Without a blood supply, the haemorrhoid shrinks and eventually falls off within a few days. The procedure is relatively quick and usually causes minimal discomfort.

Patients may experience some mild pain or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen after the procedure, but this typically subsides within a few days. It is important to follow post-procedure care instructions, such as avoiding heavy lifting and consuming a high-fibre diet to prevent constipation. Rubber-band ligation is effective for many patients, though it may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.

Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD)

Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD) is a newer, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat internal haemorrhoids. This technique focuses on reducing the blood flow to the haemorrhoids, causing them to shrink and eventually disappear. THD is particularly effective for patients with moderate to severe internal haemorrhoids.

During the procedure, the surgeon uses a Doppler ultrasound device to locate the arteries supplying blood to the haemorrhoids. The arteries are then tied off to reduce blood flow, which helps to shrink the haemorrhoids. This procedure does not involve cutting away tissue, which generally results in less pain and a quicker recovery compared to traditional hemorrhoidectomy.

Patients undergoing THD usually experience minimal discomfort and can return to their normal activities within a few days. The risk of haemorrhoid recurrence is low, making THD an attractive option for many patients. However, as with any medical procedure, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is another non-surgical treatment option for internal haemorrhoids. This procedure involves injecting a chemical solution into the haemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear. Sclerotherapy is most effective for small to medium-sized internal haemorrhoids and is typically performed in a doctor's office without the need for anaesthesia.

During the procedure, the haemorrhoids doctor uses a fine needle to inject the sclerosing agent into the haemorrhoid. The chemical solution causes the blood vessels to collapse and harden, reducing the size of the haemorrhoid. Sclerotherapy is relatively quick and causes minimal discomfort, though some patients may experience mild pain or a burning sensation after the injection.

The recovery period for sclerotherapy is generally short, with most patients able to resume normal activities the same day. It is important to follow post-procedure care instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities and consuming a high-fibre diet to prevent constipation. While sclerotherapy is effective for many patients, it may require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.

Get Haemorrhoid Treatment and surgery in Singapore

At The Colorectal Clinic, your colorectal health is our priority. Haemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and impact a person's quality of life. If you are looking for treatment options or want to know the cost of haemorrhoid surgery in Singapore, contact us today.

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