Haemorrhoidectomy

What are haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable and painful condition. Often known as ‘piles’ they affect millions of people worldwide. While there are various treatments available, severe cases often require a surgical procedure known as a haemorrhoidectomy.

What is a haemorrhoidectomy?

A haemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove large or troublesome haemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. It is a common and generally safe operation, typically performed as a day case under general anaesthetic. Haemorrhoidectomy is generally recommended for individuals with large, painful or bleeding haemorrhoids that significantly impact their quality of life. It is often considered when less invasive treatments have been ineffective.

When is a haemorrhoidectomy recommended?

Many patients can manage their haemorrhoids with attention to diet or a topical treatment when symptoms are minor. For small internal haemorrhoids, banding can be an effective treatment. But when haemorrhoids are large, prolapse (drop down) and particularly when they are associated with large external tags, surgical removal (haemorrhoidectomy) may be recommended.

What does a haemorrhoidectomy involve?

An enema is usually given an hour or so before the operation to clear the lower part of the bowel. The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic. During the operation the haemorrhoids and tags are removed using an electrical cutting device called a diathermy. Usually the wounds are left open, but sutures are sometimes used to close larger wounds. The operation takes around 45 minutes to complete.

What are the potential risks and complications?

Before the surgery, your doctor will provide instructions on how to prepare. This may include fasting and avoiding certain medications. It’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. You'll likely be asked to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as anaesthetics and pain medications may impair your ability to drive. Bleeding can occur after haemorrhoidectomy surgery; most patients will notice small amounts of blood, particularly when they open their bowels. Usually this is a small amount but rarely it can be quite a lot, if that occurs patients must seek medical advice. Infection is very rare but if patients develop increasing pain, fever or flu-like symptoms, they should seek medical advice.

Longer-term complications are rare but include:

• Stenosis; narrowing of the back passage as a result of surgical scarring
• Damage to sphincter muscles resulting in leakage problems after surgery

Haemorrhoidectomy recovery

Haemorrhoidectomy surgery can be painful afterwards. Patients will have some local anaesthetic injected into the area; this will numb the pain for a few hours. If the surgeon has placed a dressing pack in the anus this will be removed before discharge. Patients are allowed to eat and drink as soon as they feel able. Patients will normally be able to go home on the same day as the operation. Patients will be given painkillers to take by mouth; you should take these regularly to prevent pain coming on. Patients may also be given an antibiotic to take for 7 days after the operation, which has been shown to help with any discomfort.

Patients will experience discomfort when they first open their bowels after the operation, and it is important they do not avoid going to the lavatory. This discomfort will get better. Patients are given a regular stool softener to take for 4-6 weeks, and are advised to avoid straining. Patients are encouraged to keep mobile after the procedure, avoiding heavy lifting or increased physical activities for about 6 weeks. Patients can normally resume driving after about 2 weeks, but this may vary. Patients are normally reviewed in clinic around 6 weeks after the operation, but they can be seen sooner if there are queries or problems.

Haemorrhoidectomy surgery in Birmingham

A haemorrhoidectomy can offer lasting relief from the pain and discomfort caused by haemorrhoids when non-surgical treatments are insufficient. While the procedure involves a recovery period and some discomfort, the long-term benefits often outweigh the temporary pain. If you’re looking for treatment for piles and are considering haemorrhoidectomy surgery in Birmingham, then contact Get Well Soon today. Using our online platform you can see outline prices for a range of treatments for piles including a haemorrhoidectomy in Birmingham, and in just a few clicks you can book a consultation today with a nearby specialist consultant.