Introduction: Piles, commonly known as piles, can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding. While most cases can be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies, severe Piles may require surgical intervention. In this blog, we will explore the surgical procedure known as hemorrhoidectomy, why it is performed, who can benefit from it, the procedure itself, the recovery process, and potential risks involved. If you have been struggling with severe Piles and are considering hemorrhoidectomy, read on to understand more about this effective treatment option.

Section 1: Understanding Hemorrhoidectomy

• Definition: Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing Piles, whether internal or external, to provide lasting relief from symptoms.
• Importance: While surgery is not typically the first line of treatment, it becomes necessary when other interventions fail to provide relief and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe Piles.

Section 2: Why Hemorrhoidectomy is Performed

• Severity of Symptoms: Piles can cause itching, bleeding, and pain, which may worsen over time if left untreated. Severe Piles can lead to complications such as gangrene or fecal incontinence, making surgery a viable option.
• Prevalence: Piles affect a significant number of adults, and while non-invasive treatments are often effective, surgical removal becomes necessary in more severe cases.

Section 3: Non-Surgical Treatment Options

• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and maintaining a healthy diet with increased fiber intake can help manage mild Piles symptoms.
• Symptom Relief: Over-the-counter creams, suppositories, sitz baths, and oral medications can provide temporary relief from swelling, itching, and pain associated with Piles.
• Nonsurgical Procedures: Sclerotherapy, coagulation, rubber band ligation, and external Piles thrombectomy are minimally invasive procedures that can be considered before opting for surgery.

Section 4: Candidates for Hemorrhoidectomy

• Exhaustion of Non-Surgical Options: Surgery is usually recommended when non-invasive treatments fail to alleviate symptoms.
• Severity of Piles: Candidates for hemorrhoidectomy often have severe Piles causing significant discomfort.
• Other Considerations: Age, overall health, and the likelihood of positive surgical outcomes are factors that determine whether a person is a suitable candidate for hemorrhoidectomy.

Section 5: The Hemorrhoidectomy Procedure

• Hospital Setting: Hemorrhoidectomy is typically performed in a hospital, either as an outpatient procedure or with a short overnight stay.
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation is used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
• Surgical Techniques: The surgeon may use a scalpel, laser, or staples to remove the Piles, depending on the specific case and individual needs.
• Closed vs. Open Hemorrhoidectomy: The procedure can be performed as a closed hemorrhoidectomy (with sutures) or an open hemorrhoidectomy (without sutures), depending on factors such as infection risk or the size of the area being treated.
• Hemorrhoidopexy: An alternative procedure involving stapling and repositioning of Piles may be considered in some cases.

Section 6: Recovery Process after Hemorrhoidectomy

• Duration: The recovery period varies for each individual but typically ranges from 1 to 2 weeks before resuming normal activities.
• Self-Care Measures: Staying hydrated, managing pain with prescribed medications, warm baths, ice packs, and using stool softeners to prevent constipation are recommended during the recovery phase.
• Dissolvable Stitches: The sutures used in a closed hemorrhoidectomy will dissolve within a week, eliminating the need for their removal.

• Follow-Up Care: It is essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your doctor and promptly reach out to them if you have any concerns or questions during the recovery period.

Section 7: Potential Risks and Side Effects

• Slow Healing: In some cases, the healing process may take longer than expected, leading to prolonged discomfort.
• Small Tears: Small tears in the anal area can occur, resulting in pain that may persist for several months.
• Anus Narrowing (Stenosis): Scar tissue formation can cause the narrowing of the anus, potentially leading to difficulties with bowel movements.
• Damage to Sphincter Muscles: There is a slight risk of damage to the sphincter muscles during the procedure, which can result in incontinence.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty in passing urine temporarily may occur after surgery but usually resolves on its own.
• Infection: While infection after hemorrhoidectomy is rare, it is essential to monitor for signs such as fever, redness, swelling, or increasing pain and seek medical attention if these symptoms arise.

Conclusion: Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove Piles when other treatment options have been exhausted or in cases of severe Piles. While surgery carries some risks, it is considered a safe and effective treatment for providing long-term relief from Piles symptoms. If you are experiencing significant discomfort and non-invasive methods have not provided relief, consult with your doctor to discuss whether hemorrhoidectomy may be a suitable option for you. Remember to follow the recommended self-care measures during the recovery process and reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.