Many medical techniques have been developed in recent years to alleviate the pain and suffering of patients with hemorrhoids. These methods are a vast improvement over the traditional hemorrhoidectomy surgery which required hospitalization and a lengthy recuperation period. Although the success rate is not as high with these treatments, they have many advantages over invasive surgeries. They are less expensive and have a quick recovery period for the patient. They can be done in the doctor’s office or on an outpatient basis; often patients can return to work the next day. Results of the minimally invasive procedures have been excellent for some patients to unsuccessful in others. Usually, only patients with severe hemorrhoids which have not responded to any other treatments submit to these procedures.

There are three main minimally invasive procedures performed:

· Coagulation is a technique where lasers or infrared lights are used on the hemorrhoid. The method causes the internal hemorrhoid to harden and dry-up. It has few side effects, but the hemorrhoids often return.

· Rubber band ligation has a better success rate than coagulation. In this method, the doctor ties off the hemorrhoid at the base with one or two rubber bands. Without a blood supply, the hemorrhoid falls off in a few days. The patient may experience discomfort and bleeding after the procedure, but complications are rare.

· Sclerotherapy is a hemorrhoid treatment where a chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid causing it to shrink. It is a painless technique, although it seems to be less successful than rubber band ligation and is usually only used on smaller hemorrhoids.

If your hemorrhoids have progressed to the point where they have curtailed your lifestyle, these are good options to consider. Consult your doctor is see if you are a candidate for these procedures. You may want to research doctors who specialize in these treatments since they would have the experience and expertise to give you the best care.