Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or the anal area. Usually, they can be treated with over-the-counter medications and helped by dietary changes like a high-fiber diet. There are also procedures, often using lasers, that can shrink or remove them. Sometimes though, when they are severe, it may be time to consider surgery – a hemorrhoidectomy.
There are different types of hemorrhoidectomies. Some are outpatient surgeries and only require local anesthesia. Others require general anesthesia and a hospital stay. Types of hemorrhoid surgery include: stapled hemorrhoidectomy, artery ligation and recto-anal repair, rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, and electrocoagulation. Your doctor will often recommend the least invasive surgery appropriate for your condition.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. For outpatient surgery, it may take days, while recovery from some surgeries may take up to eight weeks or more. In addition, physical activity and diet are usually modified during the recovery period. Foods that can cause constipation and spicy foods are to be avoided during the recovery time.
Depending on the type of hemorrhoidectomy, hemorrhoids may never come back, or they may recur after some time, often several years. The success rate of hemorrhoid surgery can vary depending on type but is typically quite high. Whether treatment or surgery is right for you depends on a variety of factors. It is a decision you should make with a doctor’s advice.