Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins located in the lower part of the rectum and the anus, either internally or externally. The veins become swollen due to increased pressure within them, usually from constipation or profuse diarrhea, and during pregnancy because of the pressure of the enlarged uterus. In most cases, hemorrhoids are treated by over-the-counter creams, ointments, suppositories or pads. However, there are some cases that require minimally invasive or surgical procedures to thoroughly and effectively treat the condition.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURES INCLUDE:
- removing the clot with a simple incision, which may provide prompt relief
- rubber band ligation, which places one or two tiny rubber bands around the base of a hemorrhoid to cut off its circulation and cause it to wither and fall off
- injection of a chemical into the hemorrhoid tissue, which can cause it to shrink
- coagulation techniques that use laser or infrared light or heat, which cause hemorrhoids to harden and shrivel
If other procedures haven’t been successful, a surgical procedure may be recommended. Surgery can be performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis. The most effective treatment for this condition is a hemorrhoidectomy, a procedure that removes excessive tissue.