Choosing a Hemorrhoid Removal Surgery

A few years ago, one of my coworkers had a hemorrhoidectomy. She missed months of work and was in terrible pain, even after returning to her duties. Needless to say, when the doctor suggested a permanent treatment for my hemroids, I was less than enthusiastic. As we talked, however, I found that all hemorrhoid removals are not created equal.

In a traditional hemorrhoidectomy, a surgeon removes the affected tissue and closes the wound with stitches. This procedure leaves the patient in a lot of pain and, consequently, a long recovery. Nowadays, hemorrhoidectomy is reserved for only the most severe hemroids.

Fortunately, a scalpel isn't the only thing that can remove the tissue. In a rubber band ligation, an elastic band is used to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. It isn't as painful as it sounds, and the hemorrhoid eventually dies and falls off. Underneath the dead tissue, the body has already regenerated new skin. Band ligations do involve some pain, and can cause bleeding, but are nowhere near as traumatizing as a hemorrhoidectomy.

Hemorrhoidolysis involves the use of an electric probe. The probe delivers a current to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. The procedure only lasts a few minutes and is relatively painless. However, for most patients, a hemorrhoid requires three separate treatments to completely reduce the hemorrhoid.

One of the most readily available treatments in the United States is laser coagulation. During this procedure, a doctor uses a focused laser or, more commonly, a controlled electric current to burn the tissues. The cauterized hemorrhoid is sloughed off and new skin replaces it. This procedure is also done on an outpatient basis.

For those who are wary of scalpels and electricity, there is a chemical option available. Your doctor may choose to perform a sclerotherapy injection, which collapses the affected blood vessel. After the injection, your body naturally absorbs the vessel and the area returns to a normal state of health.

You might think that a stapled hemorrhoidectomy is very similar to the traditional knife-and-stitches surgery. In fact, it's very different. A circular stapler is used to return a bulging internal hemorrhoid to its rightful place, leaving most, if not all, of the hemorrhoid intact. Unfortunately, this procedure is not an effective option for external hemorrhoids.

I still remember how difficult my coworker's recovery was. I realize now how severe her condition must have been to have warranted a full hemorrhoidectomy. In less severe cases, like mine, there are many different treatments to consider. I can discuss my concerns with my doctor and choose the one that is right for my situation. If you are considering a permanent solution to painful hemroids, talk to your doctor about the treatments available to you. You have a right to the best care possible.