Hemorrhoids are a common problem that many people have, but are a bit embarrassed to talk about openly, right? Most of the time, this condition can be cured with medication, ointments, and lifestyle changes. But in some cases, the doctor may recommend surgery to permanently get rid of this problem. That surgery, that is, 'Hemorrhoidectomy', is what we are going to talk about in this simple way today.
Simply put, what is Hemorrhoidectomy?
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen, enlarged, and lumpy blood vessels in and around your anus. These can sometimes cause discomfort such as pain, itching, and bleeding in the anus.
But remember, not everyone with hemorrhoids needs surgery. In fact, only a very small number of people go as far as surgery. However, in some complex cases, surgery is the best and most permanent solution.
Why is it necessary to have a hemorrhoidectomy?
If your hemorrhoids are more severe than normal, your doctor may recommend this surgery. Keep in mind that some people experience hemorrhoids coming back after taking medication. At times like these, it can be very distressing. Let's look at some of the main reasons why surgery may be necessary.
| Complication | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Prolapse | This is when hemorrhoids inside the anus protrude. At first, they can only come out when you defecate and go back in. But over time, they can become so large that they have to be pushed back in by hand (Grade III) or so large that they cannot be pushed back in at all and remain stuck outside (Grade IV). When this happens, the pain and bleeding are severe. |
| Blood clot (Thrombosis) | This condition occurs when blood clots inside a hemorrhoid block blood flow to it. They appear dark purple-blue and cause severe pain. Sometimes they can burst and bleed profusely. |
| Strangulation | This can happen if a hemorrhoid that has come out cannot be pushed back in and becomes so tightly compressed by the anal muscles that it is completely cut off from blood flow. This is a medical emergency. If left untreated, the tissue can die (gangrene). |
| Recurrence | If hemorrhoids persist and do not respond to other simple treatments (such as medication and bandaging), they can become a lifelong problem. In such cases, surgery is 95% successful. |
Let's learn about the surgery and recovery time.
The surgery itself is not that big or complicated. However, the recovery period after the surgery can be a bit challenging. This varies from person to person. Usually, the pain will subside significantly after two to four weeks . It can take about 6-8 weeks to fully recover and resume heavy work.
What happens before the surgery?
Your doctor will explain the pros, cons, and risks of the surgery to you and obtain your consent. He or she will discuss any medications you are taking and tell you which ones you need to stop taking before surgery. You will usually need to stop eating and drinking 8 hours before surgery. If you are constipated, you may also be given an enema to help cleanse your bowels.
What happens during the surgery?
You will be completely anesthetized (put to sleep), so you will not feel or remember anything. The surgeon will find the exact location of the hemorrhoids, cut out the tissue, and seal the bleeding veins. Depending on the location of the wound, it may be closed with dissolvable stitches or left open to heal.
What to expect after surgery
Although you can go home the same day after surgery, you will need someone to accompany you. The pain will gradually begin to subside as the anesthesia wears off. You will experience some discomfort during this time.
| Status | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| Bleeding | It is normal to bleed a little after a bowel movement. There may be a little blood on the toilet paper, and maybe even on your underwear. You can use a sanitary pad for this. However, if the bleeding is heavy, you should tell your doctor immediately. |
| Swelling | It is also normal to have some swelling around the wound. This swelling may make you feel like you still have hemorrhoids. But it is just swelling. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for about 10 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling. |
| Pain | Pain is to be expected, especially when you have your first bowel movement. But it can be controlled if you use the painkillers your doctor prescribes correctly. Don't wait for the pain to come, take the medicine at the right time. For most people, the pain goes away within two weeks. |
How to make bowel movements easier after surgery?
This is the biggest challenge that many people face. Many people try not to defecate because of the pain they experience during bowel movements. This only leads to constipation and makes the problem worse. So, be sure to do these things.
- Eat foods rich in fiber: Include foods like greens, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in your diet. If necessary, ask your doctor about taking a fiber supplement.
- Drink plenty of water: Drink at least 2-3 liters of water a day.
- Avoid spicy foods: Eating spicy, chili-rich foods can cause burning during bowel movements.
- Don't stay in the bathroom too long: Don't go to the bathroom with newspapers or phones.
- Use a step stool: Having a step stool to prop your legs up when you sit on the toilet makes it easier to defecate.
- If your doctor advises you: Use a numbing cream (lidocaine cream) around the anus before defecating.
When do you want to see the doctor again?
Your doctor will ask you to come back to see him two to three weeks after the surgery to see how the wound is healing. But before that, if you experience any unusual symptoms, you should call your doctor right away.
Please note: If you have one or more of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- Unbearable pain.
- Fever.
- Heavy bleeding (so much that underwear gets wet).
- The wound becomes red, swollen, and feels hot.
- Inability to urinate or defecate.
Some people may be a little scared when they hear about hemorrhoidectomy surgery. Because of the widespread talk about the pain during the recovery period. But the truth is, the temporary discomfort is worth the pain and freedom it brings. Many people say they are glad they had the surgery.
Take-Home Message
- Hemorrhoidectomy is a very successful surgery for severe and recurring hemorrhoids.
- Even though the surgery is short, the recovery period can be a little painful and challenging. But it's temporary.
- Take the painkillers prescribed by your doctor at the right time and in the right dosage to control the pain.
- It is very important to avoid constipation during recovery. To do this, eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of fluids, and, if necessary, take a mild laxative as directed by your doctor.
- If you experience unusual symptoms such as heavy bleeding, fever, or unbearable pain, seek medical advice immediately.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න