Haemorrhoid Surgery and Laser Treatment

What Is Haemorrhoid Laser Treatment and Why Is It Needed?

Haemorrhoid laser treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a targeted laser to shrink haemorrhoids. It is often used on haemorrhoids that are bleeding, painful, or have prolapsed (slipped out of place). These are generally Grade II to IV haemorrhoids. Because Grade I haemorrhoids do not prolapse, they rarely require this treatment.

There are several types of laser surgery for haemorrhoids. The specific type used will depend on the severity of the haemorrhoid and other circumstances. Laser treatments are largely considered effective in resolving or reducing symptoms of the condition

Laser Haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP)

Also known as LHP, this uses a laser to seal the blood vessels feeding the haemorrhoid from within. This causes the haemorrhoid to shrink down and scar over time. It offers relatively high success rates, with most cases seeing 60-80% haemorrhoid size reductions in 4 to 6 weeks.

This technique is often used for internal haemorrhoids (especially Grade II and III), and may be paired with mucopexy stitch if the piles are prolapsed.

Laser Haemorrhoidectomy

This procedure is used for larger or more severe haemorrhoids, with the laser beam excising or vaporising the haemorrhoidal tissue. It is often done under general anaesthesia and allows total removal of piles without significant damage to the anal area.

Laser Coagulation (Photocoagulation)

This technique uses laser energy applied to the surface of the haemorrhoid to induce shrinkage of the haemorrhoid through vessel coagulation and fibrotic changes. It is typically used for smaller haemorrhoids or in conjunction with other treatments.

When to Consider Haemorrhoid Laser Treatment

You should consider haemorrhoid laser treatment if your condition is already causing a negative impact on your daily life. For instance, it is advised to seek treatment if you already suffer from persistent discomfort or bleeding due to it.

Early intervention can also help you avoid further complications. Note that a doctor should assess the severity of your haemorrhoid and your overall condition to determine the right procedure for your case.

See a Colorectal Specialist about Your Condition

Book a consultation with our specialists so that we can assess you and recommend the best course of action or treatment plan that can resolve your problems.

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What to Expect with Haemorrhoid Laser Treatment

Before the Surgery

Your pre-operation consultation will involve your doctor diagnosing your condition and explaining the recommended treatment. The procedure, goals, and risks will be explained, as well as pre-procedure rules you’ll need to follow.

At this stage, our colorectal specialist will also offer detail on your condition and treatment. You can ask questions or raise concerns with us at this time, and we will do our best to address each one.

During the Surgery

Depending on the exact procedure or complexity of your case, haemorrhoid laser treatments are typically day surgeries that take only 20 to 30 minutes. Your circumstances will also determine if general or local anaesthesia should be used.

The main procedure is as follows:

The surgeon uses an anoscope to find each enlarged haemorrhoid.
The surgeon may use a stitch (mucopexy) if the piles are prolapsed.
A small laser fibre or probe is inserted to deliver laser energy to the target area.

After the Surgery

Most patients can leave the hospital on the same day they get the surgery. Only more complex cases require a short hospital stay, often just for 1 to 2 days.

Recovery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks of downtime, after which most people can resume light activities. Strenuous activities are usually only advised after 4 to 6 weeks, after which most patients are fully recovered.

Your doctor will give you post-operative instructions for wound care to help you along. Sitz baths may also be advised, and post-operative follow-ups are typically scheduled.

While recovering, it is advised to look out for these symptoms and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of them:

Bleeding so heavy that it seeps through your bandage
Difficulty urinating or passing stool
Dizziness
Fever or vomiting
Severe pain in the area

Recovery or Prognosis for Haemorrhoid Laser Treatment

Because the procedure is generally outpatient, you can typically go home on the same day for recovery. For best results, it is advised to follow your doctor’s post-operation notes, which may include these:

You may walk around and do light activities immediately after the procedure, but prioritise rest for the first 1-2 days.
Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for about 4-6 weeks.
You may shower normally, but keep the area dry & clean, avoid rubbing, and change any dressings or pads as instructed.
Take sitz baths for 10 to 15 minutes, 2-3 times a day and/or after bowel movements.
Eat a high-fibre diet, drink plenty of water, and use your prescribed stool softeners.
Try not to strain on the toilet during bowel movements.

The prognosis for haemorrhoid laser treatment varies by case. However, the vast majority of patients achieve full or near-full resolution of symptoms within a few months of the procedure.

It is advised that patients continue a high-fibre diet, sustain healthy exercise, and avoid straining to minimise recurrence.

Risks and Side Effects of Haemorrhoid Laser Treatment

While haemorrhoid surgery and treatment is a minimally invasive procedure, there are certain risks for it, as with all other procedures:

Infection after surgery, the risk of which can be brought down with antibiotics
Short-term side effects like pain, light bleeding, or spasms
Recurrence of the haemorrhoids following surgery, as new haemorrhoids can develop in the area over time
In rare cases, anal incontinence or stenosis