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Everything you need to know
What is a haemorrhoid?
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins around the anus or rectum. There are two types of haemorrhoids: Internal: these form inside the rectum External: these form under the skin around the anus. Internal haemorrhoids are categorised into 4 different grades depending on their degree of prolapse.
How does it work?
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia. The laser fibre is inserted into the haemorrhoid and the energy is applied, this causes the mass to shrink.
How long does it take?
The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes.
Why laser haemorrhoid ablation?
- No incision required
- Low pain treatment
- Minimal bleeding
- Short recovery time
- Performed in an outpatient setting or one-day surgery
- No requirement for staples, rubber bands or threads
Before
If you are worried about your symptoms or your GP has referred you, get in touch and we will book you in with one of our specialist consultants.
During your initial appointment, your doctor will ask about your symptoms, any test results, and take a detailed medical history. If you have copies of previous test results or treatment plans, please bring these with you. After this, they will talk through your options and let you know whether you should have additional tests. If a laser haemorrhoid ablation is recommended, your doctor will explain the procedure thoroughly, including the risks and benefits. We encourage you to ask questions and it may be helpful to write these down beforehand as a reminder.
Your consultant will provide a specific pre-procedure protocol for you to follow.
During
The patient will be placed in the lithotomy position (on their back with legs raised). Anaesthesia is administered. The optical fibre is inserted into the haemorrhoidal mass and the laser energy is applied for the appropriate length of time.
Entrance
The specially designed pencil shaped tip is able to be inserted directly into the haemorrhoid without the need for an incision.
Ablation
Repeated Pulse Ablation – energy emission that initiates ablation leads to a gradual haemorrhoid shrinkage.
Output
As a result of thermal ablation, the haemorrhoid completely shrinks, retracts and regresses.
After
Haemorrhoid laser ablation is considered an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients will go home the same day after a follow up with the consultant. Please consult your specialist for any pain relief and how to proceed with your regular activities.
Due to the minimally invasive nature of the treatment is it expected that the restrictions will be minimal. However, please ensure you consult your specialist directly to discuss any specifics to do with your case.
The procedure has a possible recurrence rate of 10%, however post-operative pain and recovery time is far less than alternative excision treatments. Please consult your specialist for any additional risks specific to your case.