Hemorrhoids… A condition that can affect all genders and ages. The main cause is improper bowel habits, such as straining during defecation, sitting on the toilet for a long time, constipation, diarrhea, etc. If the symptoms are not severe, they can be relieved by adjusting lifestyle behaviors, such as eating fresh fruits and vegetables high in fiber, exercising regularly to stimulate bowel movement, and it can heal on its own.
However, if behavior adjustment does not improve the condition, Dr. Theerasanti Tantitemit, a colorectal and anal surgeon at Phyathai 2 Hospital recommends that patients should see a doctor to alleviate concerns about treatment.
Surgical methods are divided into 3 types
- Traditional hemorrhoid surgery can be used for all types of hemorrhoids but tends to be more painful than other methods and depends on the surgeon’s expertise. Therefore, surgical outcomes vary significantly.
- Surgery using an automatic stapling device has the advantage of less pain, faster recovery, and no external wounds. However, it is not suitable for all cases and is ideal for patients with internal hemorrhoids and multiple hemorrhoid masses.
- Laser surgery is another effective treatment method with less postoperative pain and quick recovery. It is suitable for hemorrhoids that are not severe and have relatively small masses.
- Others, such as ligation of the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoids, have different names but are not very popular because they are not much different from rubber band ligation.
Laser treatment for hemorrhoids… an option for those afraid of pain
Currently, there are many treatment options for hemorrhoids, especially laser surgery, which requires a specialist. This method suits those who fear pain and worry about surgery because it is a short procedure, requires minimal recovery time, and has a high chance of complete cure. In the past, laser treatment was less effective, but now there are lasers specifically designed for hemorrhoids.
Advantages of laser surgery
- No scarring. The doctor uses a laser to penetrate the side of the wound to destroy the hemorrhoids without directly cutting the anus. The puncture is about 2-3 millimeters in size, and the number of punctures depends on the number of hemorrhoid masses. If there are multiple masses, multiple punctures are needed. No sutures are required after surgery.
- Local anesthesia can be used. Patients do not need spinal anesthesia or urinary catheterization, eliminating concerns about urinary retention after surgery and reducing recovery time.
- Short procedure time. The surgery takes about half an hour to puncture and apply the laser.
- Patients can return to work after 1-2 days of recovery.
- After surgery, patients can move normally. If there is no wound pain after recovery, they can exercise. This differs from traditional surgery, which requires a long recovery period, sutures, careful wound care to prevent tearing, and limited movement until the wound heals.
