The term “hemorrhoids” refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed.

What Are The Characteristics and Symptoms?

Hemorrhoids are both inside and above the anus (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external). Hemorrhoids (piles) arise from congestion of internal and/or external venous plexuses around the anal canal.

Who Is Most Likely To Have This Condition?

Risk factors for hemorrhoids include:

• straining to defecate
• pregnancy
• advanced age
• chronic constipation or diarrhea
• anal intercourse

Treatment for Hemorrhoids (Non-Surgical):

Medical treatment of hemorrhoids is aimed initially at relieving symptoms. Measures to reduce symptoms include:

• tub baths several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes
• application of a hemorrhoidal cream or suppository to the affected area for a limited time

Preventing the recurrence of hemorrhoids requires relieving the pressure and straining of constipation. Doctors often recommend increasing fiber and fluids in the diet. Eating the right amount of fiber and drinking six to eight glasses of fluid (not alcohol) result in softer, bulkier stools. A softer stool makes emptying the bowels easier and lessens the pressure on hemorrhoids caused by straining. Eliminating straining also helps prevent the hemorrhoids from protruding.

Good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In addition, doctors may suggest a bulk stool softener or a fiber supplement such as psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel).

Rubber band ligation: elastic bands are applied onto an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Within a few weeks, the withered hemorrhoid is sloughed off during a normal bowel movement.

Sclerotherapy (injection therapy): a sclerosant (hardening agent) is injected into hemorrhoids. This causes the walls of the veins to collapse and the hemorrhoids to shrivel up.

What Does Surgery Involve?

There are a variety of surgical approaches to treat hemorrhoids:

Doppler Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation: This is a surgery for all grades of hemorrhoids. It does not involve cutting tissues or even a stay at the hospital. This is the best treatment for bleeding hemorrhoids, as the bleeding stops immediately.

Laser Treatment – The laser essentially vaporizes the hemorrhoidal tissue.

Hemorrhoidectomy : This is the classic surgical excision of the hemorrhoid, which can be done using traditional methods, or the newer PPH procedure (Procedure for Prolapse & Hemorrhoids), which involves an stapling device inserted into the anus.

What Are The Advantages Of Surgery?

People who do not respond to non-surgical treatments might experience long-term relief through surgery.

How Long Does It Take?

Most hemorrhoid surgeries usually take 20-60 minutes, depending on the type of procedure and extent of the condition.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

One.

What Are My Alternatives?

• Non-surgical treatment, as discussed above.

Will I Have Pain?

There is typically some postoperative pain with hemorrhoid surgery, particularly during bowel movements. However, pain medication should not be necessary for more than 3-4 days.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

Depending on the procedure, usually a few days.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

The surgery will be performed by one of our highly-trained specialists in the field.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover?

Most insurance companies will cover these procedures.