Hemorrhoidectomy Recovery, Benefits, Risks and PPH

Any type of surgery creates a lot of concern and anxiety. This article attempts to alleviate that concern for anyone undergoing a hemorrhoidectomy by providing the pros and cons of this procedure as well as by describing what to expect before, during and after surgery.

Benefits and Risks Involved with a Conventional Hemorrhoidectomy

Benefits completely alleviate any itching, pain and bleeding you experienced because the hemorrhoids and surrounding blood vessels are removed.

Learn what treatment for hemorrhoids prevents hemorrhoidectomy in future

As with any surgery, there are always risks involved. Your doctor may be able to predict which risks may affect you, considering your condition and medical history. You may experience bleeding or an infection. Many people also have allergic reactions to general anesthesia. Sometimes, spinal anesthesia is used instead. However, if the area is not properly numbed, you may experience some discomfort.

After the operation, the anus may become narrower due to scarring, which can make it more difficult to pass a stool or you may have a problem with a lack of urination or with incontinence. An abnormal passage can also form between the anal canal and another area. There is always the possibility that the hemorrhoids will return or that the other hemorrhoids left behind may be irritated. Other risks may be involved with having a hemorrhoidectomy so it is best to consult your physician.

Conventional Hemorrhoidectomy Recovery: What To Expect

Everyone is different. That’s why hemorrhoidectomy recovery can take anywhere from two weeks to two months depending on the severity of your hemorrhoids and your body’s ability to heal. You may experience considerable amounts of pain and difficulty with straining towards the beginning of a hemorrhoidectomy recovery. While recovering, it is best to avoid lifting heavy objects or doing any strenuous exercise. During the recovery period, you will most likely have a follow-up office visit to make sure the surgery is a success.

Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids (PPH)/Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy

Developed in the 1990s, Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids (PPH), also known as a stapled hemorrhoidectomy, is a relatively new procedure. The prolapsed tissue is pulled into a device that takes away the excess tissue while the stapling stops the hemorrhoidal artery blood flow into the hemorrhoids. All hemorrhoidal tissue returns to where it should be instead of being prolapsed.

There are a number of benefits to this type of hemorrhoidectomy. It seems to result in less pain compared to the conventional hemorrhoidectomy. The use of a local anesthesia means you can be and out of the hospital in as little as one day. Instead of pain, most people experience a dull ache for a few days. This shorter recovery time allows for a faster return to normal work and personal activities. In fact, one study indicated that 20% returned to work only one day after the procedure while nearly a 100% were back on track within seven days. The cure rate was gauged at 93% of people requiring no further treatment for hemorrhoids.

Downsides and Risks with New Procedure

However, this procedure is relatively new so not enough studies have been conducted to reach any conclusions on the possible long-term reoccurrences of hemorrhoids. Along with the other aforementioned risks that accompany any surgical procedures, there are other risks involved with PPH, or stapled hemorrhoidectomy. Rectal wall damage, leading to inflammation or infection, can happen if the device staples too much of the tissue. The sphincter’s internal muscles can also be damaged, causing severe pain or incontinence. Other risks include inability to urinate, a severe pelvic infection that could lead to a colostomy, and a narrowed anus that can make stool passage difficult or impossible.

Time to Call the Doctor

Certain conditions may develop during a hemorrhoidectomy recovery period that should lead you to call your doctor immediately. These include excessive bleeding, drainage from incision area, redness and swelling, the inability to urinate or pass a stool, and fever.

On the Doctor’s Advice

While this website provides you with easy access to valuable information, it is always beneficial to also consult with your doctor about the procedure, its results, its risks and hemorrhoidectomy recovery.

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