Hemorrhoids (Piles) Surgery

Hemorrhoid Surgery Meaning

Hemorrhoid surgery, also known as hemorrhoidectomy, is a medical procedure performed to remove severe or persistent hemorrhoids. Surgery is usually considered when other treatments, such as dietary changes, medications, or minimally invasive procedures, fail to provide relief from the symptoms.

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that result in discomfort, bleeding, itching, and pain. They can occur internally inside the rectum or externally around the anal opening. Hemorrhoids are a common condition and can be caused by various factors, including straining during bowel movements, obesity, pregnancy, and prolonged sitting or standing. Hemorrhoids can be treated with lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter remedies, or medical procedures in severe cases.

There are a number of different types of piles operation, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids and the patient's overall health.

1. Hemorrhoidectomy - This is the most common type of piles surgery and involves removing the hemorrhoids. It can be performed using either an open or closed technique. In an open hemorrhoidectomy, the surgeon cuts away the hemorrhoids and leaves the wound open to heal. In a closed hemorrhoidectomy, the surgeon stitches the wound closed after removing the hemorrhoids.

2. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids - PPH)- PPH is also called a stapled hemorrhoidectomy. This procedure uses a stapling device to reposition the hemorrhoids and cut off their blood supply. It is less invasive than a hemorrhoidectomy and is associated with less pain and discomfort after surgery.

3. Rubber band ligation- This procedure involves placing a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. The band cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and fall off. Rubber band ligation is a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time. However, it is not as effective for large or prolapsed hemorrhoids, and it may require multiple treatments.

4. Sclerotherapy- This procedure involves injecting a chemical into the hemorrhoid to shrink it. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time. However, it is not as effective for large or prolapsed hemorrhoids, and it may require multiple treatments.

5. Infrared coagulation- This procedure uses infrared light to heat up and destroy the hemorrhoid. Infrared coagulation is a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time. However, it is not as effective for large or prolapsed hemorrhoids, and it may require multiple treatments.

6. Hemorrhoidal artery ligation and rectopexy (HAL-RAR)- This procedure uses a Doppler probe to identify the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoids. The surgeon then ties off these arteries, which cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoids and causes them to shrink. HAL-RAR is a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time. It is effective for large and prolapsed hemorrhoids, but it is more expensive than other hemorrhoid surgery options.

7. Electrocoagulation- This treatment is similar to infrared coagulation. Instead of using infrared light, doctors use heat from an electric current. This heat creates scar tissue and stops the blood supply to the hemorrhoid.

Piles operation is a generally safe procedure, but there are some risks associated with it, as with any surgery. The potential risks and side effects of a hemorrhoidectomy are-

• Pain and Discomfort

• Perianal infection

• Bleeding

• Urinary retention

• Narrowing of the Anal Canal

• Incontinence

• Recurrence

• Slow healing

• Excessive pain despite medication

• Constipation

• Fecal Incontinence

• Allergic Reactions

Piles surgery can have several benefits, including: 

• Quick removal of hemorrhoids that are causing significant pain

• Removal of multiple hemorrhoids in one procedure

• Long-term success

• Usefulness for complicated hemorrhoids

• Outpatient procedure

• Usually cures a hemorrhoid

• Improvement in quality of life

• Reduced risk of complications

• Permanent cure

Hemorrhoid surgery recovery time can vary from person to person and depends on the type of surgery performed and the individual's overall health. Here's a general recovery timeline following a hemorrhoid surgery (hemorrhoidectomy):

Week 1:

• The first few days after surgery are often the most uncomfortable.

• You may experience pain, swelling, and some bleeding or discharge from the surgical site.

• You'll be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities.

• A high-fiber diet and stool softeners are typically recommended to prevent straining during bowel movements.

• You might need to take pain medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Week 2:

• Pain and discomfort should start to subside, but you may still experience some discomfort during bowel movements.

• You should continue to eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and take stool softeners if necessary.

• Gradually increase your physical activity, but avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise.

Week 3:

• Most patients experience a significant reduction in pain and discomfort by the third week.

• You can start to resume normal daily activities and light exercise.

• Continue with a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation.

Week 4 and Beyond:

• By this time, many patients have fully recovered and are no longer experiencing significant discomfort.

• Continue to follow a high-fiber diet to prevent recurrence.

• Your surgeon may recommend a follow-up appointment to ensure that the surgical site is healing properly.

Hemorrhoid surgery aftercare is important to ensure a smooth recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Here are some tips:

• Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.

• Keep the incision site clean and dry. 

• Avoid straining during bowel movements.

• Avoid strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks after surgery. 

• Get plenty of rest

Hemorrhoid Surgery Cost in Delhi

The cost of hemorrhoid surgery in Delhi can vary depending on the type of surgery, the surgeon's experience, and the hospital or clinic where the surgery is performed. However, the average cost of hemorrhoid surgery in Delhi is between Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 50,000.