Can you describe the surgical procedure for hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoid surgery involves the removal of excess hemorrhoidal tissue. Everyone has hemorrhoids, as they are part of our anatomy. They contribute to the closure of the sphincter complex. When they bleed, prolapse or lose their initial anatomical location they bleed, itch and must be removed. The procedure is performed under spinal anesthesia and sedation of the patient and does not require more than 24 hours of hospitalization.
What is the most effective treatment?
The treatment that seems to us the most effective for hemorrhoids is outpatient surgery with CO2 laser. It allows the definitive elimination of the problem while minimizing the patient’s postoperative pain.
What are the risks involved in this procedure?
Fortunately, hemorrhoidal surgery does not have serious complications that can compromise the patient’s life, but they are very uncomfortable. Fundamentally, there are two. Acute bleeding in the immediate postoperative period and infection of the surgical wound in the late postoperative period. In order to avoid the latter, the patient receives oral antibiotics and some feeding and cleaning guidelines that minimize this risk. It is important not to be too aggressive when resecting the skin to avoid the appearance of post-surgical anal fissures or anal stenosis.
What are the consequences for the patient when left untreated?
Hemorrhoids are not a malignant pathology. Therefore, it is never something “urgent” to treat. If the patient delays treatment excessively for fear of surgery, he exposes himself to two risks in addition to the discomfort he would have to suffer. Firstly, bleeding. It can become important, generating anemia and in extreme cases the need for blood transfusion. Infections of the hemorrhoidal tissue can also occur and degenerate into a fistula, which is much more complex to treat.
What indications should the patient follow after the procedure?
The most important thing in a postoperative period for hemorrhoids is to maintain a healthy diet, rich in fruit and fiber so that the intestinal rhythm and the consistency of the stool is adequate. Once a day. In addition, the hygiene of the surgical wound should be rigorous by washing with soap and water, no more. Then keep the area dry by applying a dry gauze that will be changed frequently. No ointments or antiseptics should be applied locally. They will only irritate the area. In any case, each surgeon has his preferences and will adapt them according to the characteristics and evolution of each patient.
For more information on hemorrhoids, contact a specialist.