Haemorrhoidectomy is the name of the surgery done to remove a haemorrhoid or pile. This is a common problem that develops when a vein inside or just outside the rectum enlarges and becomes irritated, inflamed, and clogged.
Not all haemorrhoids must be removed. Most haemorrhoids can be treated without surgery. In fact, haemorrhoidectomy is usually only recommended for the most severe conditions. These include haemorrhoids that have not responded to other types of treatment or very large and very painful haemorrhoids.
BEFORE SURGERY, THERE ARE SEVERAL THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:
- preparation for surgery
- what to expect during recovery
- the risks and benefits of having the surgery and
- arranging for help with routine household and daily tasks during the first few days after surgery.
A few days before surgery, a special diet and blood and urine tests may be required. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours before surgery, so that anaesthesia can be given safely. A mild laxative or enema may be ordered 2 to 4 hours before surgery to clear the bowel of stool. Just prior to surgery, the area around the anus and rectum is shaved and the skin is thoroughly cleansed.
A haemorrhoidectomy can be done using local or general anaesthesia. Local anaesthesia results in a loss of feeling in the area where the surgery is to be done even though the patient remains awake. General anaesthesia causes the patient to become unconscious during the operation and not have any pain during the surgery.
If the surgery is performed in a hospital, the patient will usually be admitted to the hospital on the day of surgery. If the surgery is performed at Day Surgery Centre, the patient will be asked to check in several hours prior to surgery.
During the surgery, the patient is positioned so that the anorectal area is fully exposed. The haemorrhoid is clamped, tied off, and then cut away. Special care is taken not to damage the muscles that control the anal opening that allows bowel movements to pass through.
Patients may be able to go home the same day or may spend 1 or 2 days in the hospital. Complete recovery may take 6 weeks to 2 months. Patients usually begin driving about 1 week after returning home from the hospital and may resume sexual activities when desired.
PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE DURING THE FIRST 3 TO 4 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY INCLUDE:
- avoid lifting anything heavy
- keep the incision clean and dry
- eat a high-fibre diet
- drink plenty of fluids
- use ice, warm water soaks, a special 'donut' ring cushion to sit on, and any medications suggested by your doctor or pharmacist to control pain, and
- take a stool softener (such as psyllium) or a laxative (such as mineral oil) to prevent constipation.
Pregnant women should consult their doctor prior to taking any over-the-counter medication. Persons with medical conditions are advised to read product labels carefully and consult a pharmacist if they have questions about use.
COMPLICATIONS THAT MAY DEVELOP AFTER SURGERY INCLUDE:
- infection
- excessive bleeding and
- a narrowing of the rectum
