Hemorrhoid surgery is only performed for hemorrhoids that are classified as either third or fourth stage. The third stage is where the hemorrhoids protrude (prolapsed hemorrhoids) through the anus and must be manually reinserted back into the rectum. In the fourth stage, the hemorrhoids cannot even be pushed back inside, and they contain rectal tissue which is strangulated or thrombosed (containing blood clots).
Having hemorrhoids is an embarrassing problem that most people keep to themselves for fear of ridicule. Often that leads the hemorrhoid sufferer to ignore their affliction and wait way too long before seeking medical intervention. If caught early enough, hemorrhoids can usually be cleared up in a few weeks with simple home remedies and lifestyle changes. But at some point, hemorrhoid sufferers need to consider hemorrhoid surgery if other methods have failed. Try to get your hemorrhoids diagnosed by a doctor as soon as possible.
The two types of invasive hemorrhoid surgeries.
The Hemorrhoidectomy removes the hemorrhoid completely under anesthesia, and the recuperation period can be several weeks and quite painful. This type of hemorrhoid surgery is only recommended in the severest of cases. Inability to void urine and a high infection rate can be complications from this surgery. Some studies have shown a link between this hemorrhoid surgery and a lack of bladder control later in life.
Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy or PPH surgery was developed in 1990’s as a less drastic procedure with a quicker recovery period. During the procedure, the anal canal tissue is repositioned with a circular stapler device, so that blood flow is reduced to the area, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink in four to six weeks. Usually the surgery lasts from 15-30 minutes and the patient can be back to work in a few days. Complications can be rare, but they include damage to the sphincter muscle, pelvic infection, or persistent pain. Another rare complication is rectal prolapse, where the rectum protrudes from the anus. Also, there is a chance that the hemorrhoids may return, and the procedure will need to be repeated.
Hemorrhoid Surgery is usually a last resort for people because of the expense and recuperation period involved. Your doctor is the best judge of what stage your hemorrhoids are in, and what hemorrhoid surgery options are available for you. You may want to investigate the less invasive hemorrhoid procedures that can be done in your doctor’s office too. But you are the one who will need to make the final decision for yourself, so try to be as knowledgeable as you can be about the differences in available hemorrhoid surgery options. You also can find many more articles on hemorrhoid surgery by using the H.I.C. search engine.
Written by Joy Seeman
© 2009 Hemorrhoid Information Center
