Expert Hemorrhoidectomy Surgery in New Jersey

A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids, which are swollen, inflamed veins in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort. This surgery is typically performed for severe third and fourth-degree hemorrhoids when other treatments have not been effective. With a 95% overall success rate, patients who undergo hemorrhoidectomy surgery can typically expect significant improvements in their symptoms and quality of life. The chronic pain, itching, bleeding, and discomfort associated with severe hemorrhoids often resolve completely following successful surgery.

Hemorrhoidectomy Procedures

Before getting hemorrhoidectomy surgery, it is a good idea to know about the different types of procedures:

• Conventional (Open) Hemorrhoidectomy: This traditional method involves surgically removing the hemorrhoids with a scalpel.
• Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: This technique uses a circular stapling device to remove excess tissue and reposition the remaining hemorrhoids.
• Laser Hemorrhoidectomy: This type of hemorrhoidectomy surgery procedure uses laser energy to remove hemorrhoids and seal blood vessels.
• Ligasure Hemorrhoidectomy: This hemorrhoidectomy surgery employs a device that uses electrical energy to seal and cut tissue.

Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate technique based on your individual needs and the characteristics of your hemorrhoids.

Benefits of Having Hemorrhoidectomy Surgery

Choosing hemorrhoidectomy surgery offers significant benefits, especially for those dealing with severe or persistent hemorrhoid symptoms, such as:

• Experience lasting relief from pain, swelling, bleeding, and prolapse.
• Sit, walk, and move comfortably without constant irritation.
• Feel confident without worrying about unexpected bleeding or prolapse.
• Prevent serious issues like infections, blood clots, or chronic anemia.
• Get back to your routines without the stress of untreated hemorrhoids.
  
  

Are You a Candidate?

If other medical treatments have so far proven ineffective for treating your hemorrhoids, a hemorrhoidectomy surgery may be right for you. A hemorrhoidectomy is typically reserved for severe cases, as it is more invasive than other treatments. However, it often provides the most effective and lasting solution for patients with advanced hemorrhoidal disease. You may be a candidate if you experience:

1. Chronic bleeding: When hemorrhoids bleed frequently, causing anemia or other complications.
2. Persistent pain: If hemorrhoids cause constant discomfort that interferes with daily activities.
3. Large or prolapsed hemorrhoids: When hemorrhoids protrude from the anus and cannot be pushed back in easily.
4. Thrombosed hemorrhoids: Blood clots form within the hemorrhoid, causing severe pain and swelling.
5. Failure of non-surgical treatments: If lifestyle changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures have not provided adequate relief.
   
   

What to Expect

Before

Preparation for a hemorrhoidectomy begins well before the day of surgery. You’ll have a pre-operative consultation where your surgeon will review your medical history, discuss the procedure, and explain what to expect. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, and follow specific instructions about eating or drinking the night before.

On the day of surgery, the medical team will ensure you’re comfortable and ready for the procedure. This includes reviewing your medical details, verifying any allergies, and answering last-minute questions. Once in the pre-op area, you'll change into a hospital gown, and your surgical site will be cleaned and prepped.

During

The hemorrhoidectomy itself typically takes 30–60 minutes, but the timeline can vary based on the size and severity of the hemorrhoids being removed. You will be positioned on the surgical table to give the surgeon the best access to the area being treated. This usually means lying on your stomach with your hips slightly elevated or on your back with your legs supported in a raised position.

The surgeon removes the hemorrhoids using a scalpel, laser, or stapler. Depending on the method used, the wounds are either left open to heal naturally or closed with dissolvable sutures. 

After

After surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where healthcare providers will monitor your vital signs and ensure you’re comfortable. Pain management will be a priority, and you’ll receive instructions on caring for the surgical site. Most patients can return home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you.

 

Recovering from a Hemorrhoidectomy

Recovery times vary, and it’s normal to experience some discomfort for the first week or two. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including tips for managing pain, keeping the area clean, and gradually resuming normal activities. Generally, the recovery process is as follows:

Immediate Post-Op (1-2 Days)

• Significant pain and discomfort
• Possible urinary retention

Early Recovery (1-2 Weeks)

• Gradual decrease in pain
• Initial wound healing begins
• Return to light activities

Mid-Recovery (2-4 Weeks)

• Further pain reduction
• Continued wound healing
• Gradual return to normal activities

Late Recovery (4-6 Weeks)

• Minimal pain or discomfort
• Substantial wound healing
• Return to most normal activities

Full Recovery (6-8 Weeks)

• Complete wound healing
• Return to all normal activities

Symptoms to Monitor

While some discomfort is normal during recovery, severe or worsening symptoms should be promptly reported to your healthcare provider. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. If you experience any of these symptoms during your recovery, be sure to contact your healthcare provider right away:

• Excessive bleeding or blood clots
• Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medications
• High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C)
• Inability to urinate or have a bowel movement
• Foul-smelling discharge from the surgical site
• Increased swelling or redness around the anus
• Persistent nausea or vomiting

Risks and Side Effects

While hemorrhoidectomy surgery is generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. These include:

• Pain or discomfort during recovery, which is common and typically managed with prescribed medications
• Temporary swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the surgical area
• Bleeding at the surgical site, usually mild and short-lived
• Difficulty urinating (urinary retention), which may occur immediately after surgery
• Risk of infection if the surgical site is not properly cared for
• Rare complications, such as excessive bleeding or delayed wound healing

Your care team will provide detailed post-operative instructions to minimize risks and support a smooth recovery. If you notice severe pain, excessive bleeding, signs of infection, or other concerning symptoms, contact your surgeon promptly.