Pile surgery, or hemorrhoidectomy, is a surgical procedure used to treat severe or recurring Hemorrhoids, such as swollen or inflammatory blood vessels in the rectum or anus. Hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, pain, itching, bleeding, and other symptoms.
All these symptoms can negatively influence a person's quality of life. When less invasive therapies fail to relieve the symptoms and improve general well-being, piles surgery becomes an option.
Types of Piles Surgery and Who Needs It?
Hemorrhoids are classified into internal and external hemorrhoids based on location. Internal haemorrhoids are located within the rectum, while external haemorrhoids surround the anus.
Pile surgery is typically recommended for cases where haemorrhoids have become enlarged, prolapsed, or are causing severe symptoms.
Key Takeaways of Piles Surgery
- Type of Procedure: Surgical (can be open or minimally invasive, depending on the method)
- Duration: Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity
- Anesthesia Used: General or local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation
- Recovery Time:
- Initial recovery: 1 to 2 weeks
- Return to normal activities: 2 to 4 weeks
- Full recovery: 4 to 6 weeks (depends on the type of surgery and individual healing)

What are the Indications of Piles Surgery(Hemorrhoidectomy)?
Here are the common indications that might lead to the recommendation of piles surgery:
- Persistent Symptoms: When hemorrhoids cause persistent symptoms, such as pain, itching, bleeding, and discomfort that significantly affect the patient's quality of life, surgery may be considered.
- Non-Responsive to Non-Surgical Treatments: If over-the-counter treatments, dietary changes, topical medications, and other non-surgical measures fail to alleviate the symptoms, surgery may be recommended.
- Large or Prolapsed Hemorrhoids: Huge Hemorrhoids, prolapsed (bulging out of the anus) or thrombosed (containing clots) can cause severe pain and discomfort, making surgery a viable option.
- Chronic Bleeding: If Hemorrhoids cause chronic bleeding that leads to anaemia or requires frequent medical intervention, surgery might be necessary to stop the bleeding.
- Quality of Life Impairment: When Hemorrhoids significantly impact a person's daily activities, work, social life, and overall well-being, surgery can offer long-term relief.
- Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: Thrombosed external Hemorrhoids, which are characterized by blood clots forming within the Hemorrhoids, can cause intense pain and might require surgical removal.
- Recurrent Hemorrhoids: If Hemorrhoids keep recurring despite previous treatments, surgery might be considered to provide a more lasting solution.
- Impaired Hygiene and Functionality: Hemorrhoids that interfere with proper hygiene or regular bowel movements due to pain or discomfort could warrant surgical intervention.
- Severe Bleeding: Hemorrhoids that cause profuse bleeding or bleeding that cannot be managed through conservative methods might necessitate surgery.
- Patient Choice: In some cases, patients might opt for surgery due to the severity of their symptoms or desire a more definitive solution.
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Get Second OpinionHow to Prepare for Piles Surgery (Hemorrhoidectomy)?
Preparation for a pile surgery involves several essential steps to ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery.
Here's a guide on how to prepare:
- Consultation with a Specialist: Schedule a consultation with a colorectal surgeon, proctologist, or general surgeon who specializes in hemorrhoid surgery. They will evaluate your condition and medical history and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.
- Medical Evaluation: Your medical team might conduct additional tests such as blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a colonoscopy to assess your overall health and the extent of your hemorrhoids.
- Medication Review: Provide a comprehensive list of all medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements. Some medicines need to be adjusted before surgery.
- Fasting Instructions: Follow the instructions from your medical team regarding fasting before surgery. You'll be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything for a specific period before the procedure.
- Anesthesia Discussion: Discuss the type of anaesthesia used during the surgery and any concerns or allergies you might have with the anesthesiologist.
- Smoking and Alcohol: If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing smoking before the surgery, as smoking can affect healing. Avoid alcohol for a few days before the procedure.
Who Will Perform Piles Surgery?
Medical professionals involved in treating piles surgery (Hemorrhoidectomy) are those who are experts in the procedure.
Colorectal Surgeon
- Colorectal surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus.
- They are trained to perform hemorrhoidectomy and other procedures related to the lower digestive tract.
General Surgeon
- General surgeons have expertise in performing a wide range of surgical procedures.
- Some general surgeons may also specialize in colorectal surgery and be qualified to perform hemorrhoidectomy.
Proctologist
- Proctologists, also known as colorectal or pelvic floor surgeons, specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the rectum and anus, including hemorrhoids.
Anesthesiologist
- Anesthesiologists are responsible for administering anesthesia during the surgery to ensure the patient's comfort and safety.
Surgical Team
- Nurses, surgical assistants, and operating room staff work together as part of the surgical team to assist the surgeon during the procedure.
Gastroenterologist
- Gastroenterologists are medical doctors who specialize in the digestive system.
- While they often manage non-surgical hemorrhoid treatments, they might refer patients to a colorectal surgeon for surgical intervention.
Steps Involved in the Piles Surgery Procedure
Find step-by-step hemorrhoidectomy surgery procedures for hemorrhoid relief.
- Preparation: The patient is positioned on an operating table, and the surgical area is cleaned and sterilized.
- Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring the patient is asleep and pain-free.
- Incision or Excision: The surgeon may choose one of several techniques to remove the hemorrhoids
- Excision: The surgeon cuts out the hemorrhoid tissue using a scalpel, scissors, or electrocautery.
- Stapler Surgery for Piles: Stapler surgery, also known as stapled hemorrhoidopexy, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a stapling device to remove excess tissue and reposition the hemorrhoids. It is less painful and offers a quicker recovery than traditional hemorrhoidectomy.
- Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation: A technique that involves tying off the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink.
- Laser Surgery: A laser beam vaporizes or removes hemorrhoid tissue.
- Closure and Dressing: After removing the hemorrhoids, the incision sites are closed using sutures or surgical staples.
- Recovery and Postoperative Care:
- The patient is monitored as they wake up from anaesthesia.
- Pain medication and instructions for wound care are provided.
- A follow-up appointment schedule is usually given.
Side Effects of Piles Surgery
Here are the common side effects of piles surgery:
- Pain and Discomfort: Especially during bowel movements, which may last for a few days to a week.
- Swelling: The surgical site may swell for several days after surgery.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur post-surgery, especially during the first few days.
- Itching: Itching around the anal area is common during recovery.
- Urinary Retention: Difficulty urinating due to swelling or pain, often temporary.
- Constipation: Difficulty passing stools post-surgery, often caused by pain or medication.
- Fecal Incontinence: Rare, but it can occur if nerves or muscles are affected during surgery.
- Skin Tags: Small skin tags may form or remain after the surgery.
- Delayed Healing: In some cases, wounds may take longer to heal, especially in patients with certain health conditions.
- Infection: There's a slight risk of infection at the surgical site.
Most side effects are temporary and improve with proper care. Following post-surgery instructions helps minimize discomfort and complications.
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Recovery After Piles Surgery (Hemorrhoidectomy)
Recovery after a piles operation involves a period of healing and adjustment as your body recovers from the surgical procedure. Here's an overview of what to expect during the postoperative phase:
- Immediate Postoperative Period: After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until you wake up from anaesthesia. Your vital signs and comfort level will be closely observed.
- Hospital Stay: Most piles surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day. In some cases, an overnight stay might be recommended for observation.
- Pain Management: Pain is joint pain after piles surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medications to help manage discomfort. Take these medications as directed.
- Incision Care: Follow your medical team's instructions for incision care and hygiene. Keep the surgical area clean to prevent infection.
- Diet and Hydration: Eat a balanced and fiber-rich diet to avoid constipation, which can strain the surgical area. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks to allow the surgical area to heal.
- Follow-up Appointments: Your medical team will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery, assess your healing, and remove any sutures or staples as needed.
- Bowel Movements: Your doctor might recommend stool softeners or mild laxatives to prevent straining during bowel movements, which can be uncomfortable after surgery.
- Resuming Daily Activities: You can gradually resume light activities as your healing progresses. Consult your medical team before engaging in more strenuous activities.
- Pain and Discomfort: Some discomfort is expected during the recovery period. However, contact your medical team promptly if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or other concerning symptoms.
- Healing Time: Complete healing can take several weeks. The initial discomfort and any swelling or bruising should gradually improve over time.
Lifestyle Changes After Piles Surgery (Hemorrhoidectomy)
After undergoing surgery for piles, making specific lifestyle changes can contribute to a smoother recovery, promote healing, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Here are some lifestyle adjustments to consider:
- Hydration and Diet: Consume a diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber helps prevent constipation and reduces strain during bowel movements. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and maintain soft stools.
- Avoid Straining: Straining during bowel movements can irritate the surgical area. To make bowel movements more comfortable, use stool softeners or fiber supplements.
- Regular Bowel Habits: Establish regular bowel habits by using the restroom at the same time each day. Don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
- Proper Hygiene: After bowel movements, maintain good anal hygiene by gently cleaning the area with mild soap and water. Avoid using rough toilet paper or wipes with alcohol or fragrance.
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods, as this can increase pressure on the anal area. Take breaks and change positions regularly.
- Smoking and Alcohol: If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing smoking, as smoking can impair healing. Limit alcohol consumption, as excessive alcohol can lead to dehydration.
- Regular Check-ups: Continue attending follow-up appointments with your medical team to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.