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Hemorrhoid surgery

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Definition:

Hemorrhoid surgery is the removal of enlarged veins around the anus ( hemorrhoids ).

Alternative Names:

Hemorrhoidectomy

Description:

Hemorrhoids can be surgically removed while you are sedated and pain-free (local or spinal anesthesia) or deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia ). After the hemorrhoid is removed, gauze packing is inserted to reduce bleeding.

Smaller hemorrhoids may not require surgery. Treatments for small hemorrhoids may involve a chemical injection to reduce swelling or rubber band ligation to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. These procedures can often be done as an outpatient or office procedure with minimal or no anesthesia.

Indications:

Hemorrhoid removal may be recommended when nonsurgical treatment ( fiber -rich diet, laxatives, stool softener, suppositories, medications, warm baths) has not provided adequate relief from:

• Persistent itching
• Anal bleeding
• Pain
• Blood clots (thrombosis of the hemorrhoids)
• Infection

References:

Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2006.

Rakel P, ed. Conn ’s Current Therapy 2007 . 59th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2007.

• Review Date: 7/25/2007
• Reviewed By: Robert A. Cowles, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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