Overview

Hemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged veins located in the lower rectum and anus. They are a very common condition and affect people of all ages. While many hemorrhoids improve with lifestyle changes or medications, some cases require procedural or surgical treatment.

Hemorrhoidectomy is the surgical removal of hemorrhoids and is considered the most effective long-term treatment for severe or recurrent hemorrhoidal disease.

At KIMSHEALTH, hemorrhoid treatment is individualised, combining conservative care, minimally invasive procedures, and advanced surgical techniques to ensure safe outcomes and faster recovery.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when veins in the rectal or anal area become swollen due to increased pressure. This pressure may be related to straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, obesity, or ageing.

Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are classified based on their location:

Internal Hemorrhoids

• Located inside the rectum
• Usually painless
• May cause bright red bleeding during bowel movements
• Can prolapse (bulge outside the anus) in advanced stages

External Hemorrhoids

• Located under the skin around the anus
• Can cause pain, swelling, itching, and irritation
• May form blood clots (thrombosed hemorrhoids), leading to sudden severe pain

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity but may include:

• Rectal bleeding during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation around the anus
• Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
• Swelling or a lump near the anus
• Mucus discharge
• A feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation

Many people delay seeking care due to embarrassment, but early evaluation can prevent complications and reduce the need for surgery.

When Is Hemorrhoid Removal Needed?

Not all hemorrhoids require surgery. Treatment depends on symptom severity, hemorrhoid size, and response to conservative measures.

Hemorrhoidectomy may be recommended if:

• Hemorrhoids do not improve with medications or office-based treatments
• There is persistent bleeding leading to anaemia
• Hemorrhoids are large, prolapsed, or thrombosed
• There is severe pain or recurrent symptoms
• External and internal hemorrhoids coexist

Preparing for Hemorrhoid Removal

Pre-procedure Evaluation

Before treatment, your doctor will:

• Perform a physical and digital rectal examination
• Assess hemorrhoid grade and location
• Review your medical history and medications
• Occasionally recommend anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

• All medications and supplements you take
• History of bleeding disorders
• Allergies
• Previous surgeries
• Heart or clotting conditions

Medication Adjustments

You may need to temporarily stop:

• Aspirin and NSAIDs
• Blood thinners (warfarin, clopidogrel, etc.)
• Certain herbal supplements (fish oil, ginkgo biloba)

Always stop medications only under medical guidance.

Bowel Preparation

• Most patients may be advised to use an enema
• Fasting instructions depend on the type of anesthesia planned

Types of Hemorrhoid Treatment Procedures

Non-Surgical (Office-Based) Procedures

Used mainly for internal hemorrhoids:

Rubber Band Ligation

• A rubber band cuts off blood supply
• Hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off in a few days

Sclerotherapy

• Injection causes hemorrhoid to scar and shrink

Infrared Coagulation

• Heat destroys hemorrhoidal tissue

These procedures are quick and usually require no hospital stay.

Hemorrhoidectomy (Surgical Removal)

Surgery is performed when hemorrhoids are severe, large, or recurrent.

Types of Surgical Hemorrhoid Removal

Conventional Hemorrhoidectomy

• Hemorrhoid tissue is surgically excised
• Incision may be closed or left open to heal

Doppler-Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation

• Ultrasound identifies feeding blood vessels
• Blood flow is tied off to shrink hemorrhoids

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy

• Removes excess tissue and lifts hemorrhoids back into place
• Less pain but higher recurrence in some cases

What Happens During Hemorrhoidectomy?

• An IV line is placed for fluids and medication
• Anesthesia is administered (local, regional, or general)
• The surgeon removes or treats the hemorrhoidal tissue
• Bleeding is controlled
• Gauze or foam dressing may be placed in the anus

Surgery typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on complexity.

Recovery After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Immediately After Surgery

• You will be monitored in a recovery area
• Mild grogginess or nausea may occur
• Pain medication is provided as needed
• There will be some staining of stools with blood for a few days

At Home Recovery

• Pain and discomfort are common for a few days
• Sitz baths help relieve pain and swelling
• Stool softeners and high-fibre diet are essential
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid straining during bowel movements

Most patients resume normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, although complete healing may take longer.

Possible Risks and Complications

Hemorrhoidectomy is generally safe, but potential risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Severe constipation
• Difficulty urinating
• Narrowing of the anal canal
• Temporary or permanent bowel control issues
• Recurrence of hemorrhoids

Your surgeon will discuss risk minimisation strategies before the procedure.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Heavy or persistent bleeding
• Fever or chills
• Increasing pain
• Inability to urinate
• Signs of infection
• No bowel movement for several days despite treatment

Preventing Hemorrhoids from Returning

Lifestyle changes play a key role in prevention:

• Eat a high-fibre diet
• Drink adequate water
• Avoid prolonged sitting or straining
• Exercise regularly
• Treat constipation early

Care at KIMSHEALTH

At KIMSHEALTH, hemorrhoid management is handled by experienced colorectal and general surgeons using evidence-based protocols and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. We focus on patient comfort, safety, and long-term relief, ensuring care that meets international standards.

Talk to a KIMSHEALTH Specialist

If you are experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids or have been advised surgery, consult a KIMSHEALTH expert for a personalised treatment plan.

Book your consultation today to explore safe, effective, and advanced options for hemorrhoid treatment.