What are the Different Types of Piles Surgery?

Treatment for piles usually involves a mixture of medication and non-surgical treatments. In those instances when piles surgery is required, however, it is usually one of three types. A conventional hemorrhoidectomy involves cutting out the piles and is usually performed under a general anesthetic. Hemorrhoidal artery litigation is a different type of surgery involving blocking the arteries that supply the piles. A stapled hemorrhoidectomy, where a staple is used to remove an area of tissue so that the piles return into the anus, is thought to be preferable to the conventional surgery.

Piles surgery is usually only recommended if the condition is severe or if other forms of treatment have failed. Non-surgical treatments such as banding, which involves placing small elastic bands around the hemorrhoids, are often tried first. Medication and supplements to soothe pain and increase fiber intake are also sometimes effective. All surgical treatments for piles need to be performed in a hospital, but it’s generally rare for the patient to have to stay overnight.

One type of piles surgery is the conventional hemorrhoidectomy. This is performed under a general anesthetic and involves cutting out the piles. The blood vessels are then tied to prevent further bleeding. Once the piles have been removed, the surgeon either lets the area heal naturally or inserts stitches to hold the wound shut. A hemorrhoidectomy is usually only considered if the patient has a severe problem with piles, although it is sometimes recommended for those who’ve unsuccessfully tried other treatments.

Hemorrhoidal artery litigation, also known as HALO, is another form of piles surgery. Instead of removing piles, the blood vessels and arteries which supply the hemorrhoids are blocked. This, over time, causes the hemorrhoids to shrink, resulting in less pain and bleeding. As with a hemorrhoidectomy, HALO is a last resort and is not usually suitable for pregnant women.

There are several other types of piles surgery, but a stapled hemorrhoidectomy is among the the most common options. Instead of cutting the piles, the surgeon uses a stable to remove a small area of tissue. When the tissue is removed, it creates a gap for the piles to return to the anus. This type of surgery is also effective because it reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoids. Recent research has shown that a stapled hemorrhoidectomy may often be a better choice than conventional surgery because it results in less pain after the procedure.