DEFINITION

Removal of piles by a technique that uses a rubber band over the stalk of the pile mass to cut off blood flow.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

Pre-op investigations

ANESTHESIA

Any of the Local, Spinal or General anesthesia may be used.

DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE

• The doctor inserts a proctoscope to dilate the anal muscles. Sometimes anal muscles must be dilated vigorously to expose the piles.
• The pile mass is visualized and grasped with a special instrument.
• A small rubber band is slipped over the stalk of the pile mass to bind it and cut off it’s blood flow.
• The surgical area may be sewn closed or left open and medicated gauze is used to cover it.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Wound infection.
• Severe pain, especially while passing stools.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY

2 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Curable in most patients, no matter what age. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

• No smoking.
• Sit in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes as often as it feels good.
• Avoid heavy lifting. If not possible, learn proper body mechanics to reduce strain contributing to recurrence.
• Don't strain while passing stools or urine.
• Wipe gently after passing stools with soft, moist, white toilet paper.

MEDICATION

Your doctor may prescribe:

• Pain relievers. Don't take prescription pain medication longer than 4 to 7 days. Use ONLY as much as you need.
• Stool softeners or laxatives to prevent constipation.
• Analgesic ointment to relieve pain.
• Avoid aspirin.

ACTIVITY

Resume driving 1 week after returning home.

DIET

Increase dietary fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation. Straining while passing stools can cause piles to recur.

CONTACT YOUR SURGEON IMMEDIATELY

• Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increase in the surgical area.
• Signs of infection appear: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You become constipated.