What Is Hemorrhoidectomy and When Is It Needed?
A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure done to remove painful or swollen hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins near or inside the anus that can cause pain, bleeding, itching, and discomfort while sitting or passing stool. Many hemorrhoids can be treated with medicines, diet changes, or small procedures, but surgery may be needed when symptoms are severe or keep coming back.
This procedure is performed by a trained surgeon in a hospital or surgical center. It is usually done as a same-day procedure, meaning the patient can go home after surgery. Hemorrhoidectomy removes the problem directly and gives long-lasting relief when other treatments do not work.
Purpose & Benefits of Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoidectomy is done to provide lasting relief from serious hemorrhoid problems.
- Relieves Pain and Bleeding: Removing hemorrhoids helps reduce pain, bleeding, itching, and swelling.
- Treats Severe Hemorrhoids: It is helpful for hemorrhoids that stick out, become trapped, or contain blood clots.
- Long-Term Solution: Surgery greatly lowers the chance of hemorrhoids coming back compared to simple treatments.
Who May Benefit from Hemorrhoidectomy?
Hemorrhoidectomy may be advised for people who have:
- Strong pain or frequent bleeding
- Hemorrhoids that come out and cannot be pushed back in
- Hemorrhoids that do not improve with medicines or home care
- Hard and painful hemorrhoids with blood clots
- Repeated hemorrhoid problems over time
- Both internal and external hemorrhoids causing discomfort
- Improves Daily Comfort: After healing, most people find it easier to sit, walk, and use the toilet without pain.
Hemorrhoidectomy Treatment Process
1. Doctor Consultation
The surgeon examines the area, asks about symptoms, and explains why surgery is needed and what to expect.
2. Preparation Before Surgery
You may be asked not to eat or drink for some time before surgery. Certain medicines may need to be stopped. The bowel area may be cleaned before the procedure.
3. Numbing or Sleep Medicine
The surgery is done using medicine that prevents pain. You may be fully asleep or have the lower body numbed, based on what the doctor decides.
4. Removal of Hemorrhoids
The surgeon removes the swollen veins using surgical tools. The wound may be closed with stitches or left open to heal naturally.
5. After-Surgery Care
You will receive pain-relief medicines, stool-softening medicines, and clear instructions on diet and wound care to help healing.
The surgery usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and most people go home the same day.
Duration & Where It Is Done
Hemorrhoidectomy is usually done in a hospital or surgery center. Most patients return home the same day, though some may stay overnight if needed. Healing usually takes 2 to 8 weeks, with improvement felt much earlier if care instructions are followed properly.
Safety, Precautions & Care
Hemorrhoidectomy is generally safe when done by an experienced surgeon, but like all surgeries, some care is needed.
Possible Side Effects
- Pain or soreness in the anal area
- Mild bleeding
- Swelling or slow healing
- Difficulty passing urine for a short time
Serious problems are uncommon.
Important Precautions
Tell your doctor if you:
- Take blood-thinning medicines
- Have long-term illnesses
- Have problems with bleeding or digestion
Your doctor will decide if surgery is safe for you.