In cases where conservative methods of treating hemorrhoids are ineffective, surgical intervention is recommended. The operation to remove hemorrhoids is quite serious, requires hospitalization and a further rehabilitation period.
Methods of operative treatment of hemorrhoids
Operations to eliminate hemorrhoids are divided into two groups: minimally invasive and radical. The first, as a rule, are appointed in the late stages of the disease and are conducted in several stages (one node is processed in one stage). Also, minimally invasive operations are possible before radical intervention as a preparatory stage. Such operations are more often performed under local anesthesia. Radical operations can be shown already at the first stage of the disease and require general anesthesia. Consider several types of operations for the treatment of hemorrhoids:
- Ligation by latex rings is a minimally invasive procedure in which a vessel that feeds the hemorrhoidal node is closed by means of a special ring. After some time, the node is rejected.
- Proximal ligation is a minimally invasive method consisting in flashing the vessel that feeds the node, as a result of which the flow of blood to it ceases.
- Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive operation, which is often prescribed as preparation for radical intervention. It is based on the introduction of a drug in the hemorrhoidal junction that promotes the "gluing" of the walls of the vessel, which leads to a stop in the flow of blood.
- Cryotherapy is a minimally invasive operation, in which the hemorrhoidal node is exposed to liquid nitrogen, as a result of which the latter is removed.
- Infrared photocoagulation is a minimally invasive intervention using heat flow, which is directed to the tissues near the node. As a result, a scar is formed that cuts the blood flow to the site.
- Hemorrhoidectomy is a radical procedure in which the artery that supplies the node is stitched, and then the excision of the node itself is performed.
- Resection of the mucosa by the Longo method is a radical operation to remove a portion of the rectal mucosa. As a result of such interference, blood flow to the hemorrhoidal nodes is broken, and they gradually "overgrow" with connective tissue.
Possible complications after removal of hemorrhoids
As with any surgical interventions, complications may develop after an operation to remove hemorrhoids. The most common of these is severe pain syndrome. Also after the operation of hemorrhoids it is possible:
- temperature increase;
- bleeding;
- narrowing of the anal canal;
- fistula , etc.
Practically all patients face psychological problems.
Rehabilitation after an operation to remove hemorrhoids
Depending on the type of intervention performed, the rehabilitation period after the operation to remove hemorrhoids can proceed in different ways. However, in any case, the patient requires strict implementation of the main recommendations to prevent complications and speedy recovery. These recommendations include:
- Compliance with a diet that provides for the use of products that do not cause gassing and promote a soft and regular stool. A sufficient drinking regime should also be observed.
- The use of rectal ointments or suppositories after the operation of hemorrhoids with anti-inflammatory, hemostatic and analgesic effect.
- Careful hygiene of the perianal area.
- Minimizing physical activity.
In most cases, the rehabilitation period after the operation to remove hemorrhoids does not exceed 4-5 weeks.