DEFINITION

Removal of piles by cutting them surgically

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

Pre-op investigations

ANESTHESIA

Ususally General anesthesia is used.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The dilated veins from around the anus and inside the rectum are cut free and removed, with care taken not to damage the sphincter muscle. Sometimes anal muscles must be dilated vigorously to expose the hemorrhoids.
• 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

2-3 days.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

• Warm baths every 4 hours or so relieve pain and help keep the rectal area clean. Sit in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes as often as it feels good.
• Don't strain while passing stools or urine.

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.

ACTIVITY

• Resume driving 1 week after returning home.
• Resume sexual relations as soon as you wish.

DIET

No special diet. Increase dietary fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation. Straining during bowel movements can cause hemorrhoids to recur.

CONTACT YOUR SURGEON, IMMEDIATELY

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