For some people, a healthy diet and lifestyle and prescribed medicines aren't enough to treat hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid surgery is safe and effective most of the time. But you'll still need to eat a high-fiber diet, avoid constipation, and take care of your bottom to help prevent new hemorrhoid flare-ups.
The cost for hemorrhoid removal surgery may vary based on the patient's specific surgical needs, surgeons' fees, and anesthesia and surgery center or hospital fees.
Hemorrhoidectomy or hemorrhoid surgery is a procedure performed under general or spinal anesthesia. So patients don’t feel pain and they are also given a long-acting local anesthetic right before they wake up to provide up to 12 hours of pain relief following the surgery.
This surgery is performed to remove hemorrhoids – internal or external-. Usually, surgery is not the treatment option but if others fail, hemorrhoidectomy is a safe, effective treatment that doesn't just make hemorrhoids easier to live with; yet gets rid of them altogether.
Nowadays banding is the most common non-surgical hemorrhoid removal treatment. During this, a rubber band gets placed around the base of symptomatic hemorrhoid to stop blood flow to the tissue. Then usually during a bowel movement, dried-up hemorrhoid falls off on its in a week or two.
Usually, recovery takes about 2 weeks, since it’s a highly sensitive spot and you may have gotten stitches. Although it may even take 3-6 weeks before you’re back to normal life.
Some procedures shrink or remove them, such as using a laser, which can be done in your doctor's office. However, surgery might be a better long-term decision, especially if your hemorrhoids are large and very painful or bleeding.
Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins located in the lower part of the rectum and anus. They are akin to varicose veins and can develop internally within the rectum or externally under the skin around the anus. The condition becomes particularly noticeable when these veins are inflamed or swollen, leading to a variety of symptoms and discomforts.
Internally, hemorrhoids may not be visible or cause significant pain, but they can lead to painless bleeding during bowel movements, where one might observe small amounts of bright red blood either on the toilet tissue or in the toilet bowl. In some cases, internal hemorrhoids can protrude through the anal opening, a condition known as prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoids, which can result in pain and irritation.
External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be felt as lumps under the skin around the anus and can cause itching, irritation, pain, and swelling in the affected area. In more severe cases, blood can pool in an external hemorrhoid and form a clot, leading to intense pain, inflammation, and a hard, discolored lump near the anus, known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
The exact causes of hemorrhoids are not entirely clear, but several factors contribute to their development. These include straining during bowel movements, sitting for prolonged periods (especially on the toilet), chronic diarrhea or constipation, obesity, pregnancy, anal intercourse, a low-fiber diet, and regularly lifting heavy objects. As people age, the risk of developing hemorrhoids increases due to the weakening and stretching of the tissues that support the veins in the rectum and anus.
Hemorrhoid removal, medically referred to as hemorrhoidectomy, is a procedure considered when hemorrhoids cause severe symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments. The necessity for removal arises from the complications and discomfort that hemorrhoids can cause, impacting the quality of life.
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. While many hemorrhoids can be managed with dietary changes, topical treatments, and other non-invasive methods, some cases require more definitive treatment. Removal is needed when hemorrhoids become excessively large, cause significant bleeding, or are associated with intense pain, especially if they have thrombosed (developed blood clots).
Persistent hemorrhoids can lead to chronic blood loss and anemia, necessitating removal to prevent further health complications. Additionally, prolapsed hemorrhoids that cannot be manually reinserted back into the anus may require surgical intervention. The presence of strangulated hemorrhoids, where the blood supply is cut off, also warrants immediate removal due to the risk of tissue death and infection.
The decision to remove hemorrhoids is also influenced by the recurrence and persistence of symptoms despite trying less invasive treatments. For individuals who experience frequent flare-ups that interfere with daily activities, removal can provide long-term relief and improve their ability to perform routine tasks without discomfort. Only a small percentage of people with hemorrhoids require surgery. However, if other procedures haven't been successful or you have large hemorrhoids, your doctor might recommend one of the following:
The surgery can be done with local anesthesia combined with sedation, spinal anesthesia, or general anesthesia. Hemorrhoidectomy is the most effective and complete way to treat severe or recurring hemorrhoids. Complications may include temporary difficulties with emptying your bladder, which can result in urinary tract infections. The operation is usually done in a surgery center. You will most likely go home the same day (outpatient).
This procedure, called stapled hemorrhoidopexy, blocks blood flow to hemorrhoidal tissue. It is typically used only for internal hemorrhoids. Stapling generally involves less pain than hemorrhoidectomy and allows for an earlier return to regular activities. Complications may also include bleeding, urinary retention, and pain, as well as, rarely, a life-threatening blood infection (sepsis). Compared to hemorrhoidectomy, stapling has been associated with a greater risk of recurrence and rectal prolapse, in which part of the rectum protrudes from the anus.
A hemorrhoid surgery usually takes 4 weeks for full recovery, while patients may experience pain or discomfort in their rectal area.
Before undergoing hemorrhoid removal, a procedure known as a hemorrhoidectomy, patients must follow specific preparatory steps to ensure a safe and effective surgery. The preparation begins with a thorough consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss the patient's medical history, current medications, and any allergies. This is crucial for tailoring the procedure to the individual's needs and minimizing potential risks.
Patients may be required to undergo several diagnostic tests, such as a digital rectal exam or sigmoidoscopy, to assess the size and location of the hemorrhoids and confirm the necessity of the surgery. Once the procedure is deemed necessary, the healthcare provider will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare in the days leading up to the surgery.
One of the key preparatory steps involves dietary adjustments. Patients are often advised to consume a high-fiber diet and increase fluid intake to soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements, which is essential for minimizing complications post-surgery. Additionally, they may be instructed to take fiber supplements or laxatives to ensure the bowels are clear on the day of the surgery.
On the day before the surgery, patients might need to follow a clear liquid diet and may be prescribed a bowel cleansing agent to empty the intestines. This is important to prevent any fecal matter from complicating the surgical field during the procedure. Patients are also advised to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, which could increase the risk of bleeding during the operation.
Personal hygiene is another crucial aspect of pre-surgical preparation. Patients are instructed to take a bath or shower before coming in for the surgery and to avoid applying lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or nail polish. They are also advised not to shave the surgical site themselves to prevent any skin irritation or infection.
On the day of the surgery, patients should wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive them home afterward, as they will not be able to drive themselves due to the effects of anesthesia. Jewelry, piercings, and contact lenses must be removed before the procedure to prevent any interference with the surgical equipment and to maintain a sterile environment.
After hemorrhoid removal, a procedure known as hemorrhoidectomy, patients enter a recovery phase that is crucial for healing and regaining comfort. The recovery period can last anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on the individual's health and the extent of the surgery.
Immediately following the surgery, patients can expect to experience pain and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications. It's common for the surgical area to be tender, and there may be some bleeding and swelling. To aid in pain relief and reduce swelling, patients might use ice packs and sitz baths as recommended by their healthcare provider.
The first few days post-surgery are typically the most challenging. Patients are encouraged to rest but also to engage in light activities like walking, which promotes blood circulation and helps prevent blood clots. Heavy lifting, straining during bowel movements, and strenuous activities should be avoided to prevent putting pressure on the healing tissues.
Diet plays a significant role in post-operative care. A high-fiber diet and plenty of fluids are essential to soften stools and prevent constipation, which can cause pain and disrupt the healing process. Stool softeners or laxatives may also be prescribed to facilitate easier bowel movements.
Patients are advised to follow a meticulous hygiene routine to keep the surgical area clean and prevent infection. This includes gently cleaning the area after each bowel movement and ensuring it is dry. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are necessary to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
As the weeks progress, the pain and discomfort should gradually subside. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks, although they should continue to avoid any activity that could strain the area. Full recovery, with no pain, is usually achieved within one to two months.
Patients need to be attentive to their bodies and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, fever, or signs of infection. Adhering to the recovery plan and maintaining open communication with the healthcare provider is key to a successful recovery after hemorrhoid removal.
Equipped hospitals and advanced specialized centers with experienced doctors and specialists are available in all medical treatment areas in Iran. Also, good hotels and entertainment centers have made Iran an appropriate choice for patients who suffer from Hemorrhoid disease.
The cost of hemorrhoid removal, or hemorrhoidectomy, in Iran, can vary based on several factors, including the hospital or clinic, the specific procedure used, and whether the condition is treated as an outpatient or requires hospitalization. Generally, Iran is known for offering medical procedures at a lower cost compared to many Western countries, which has made it a destination for medical tourism.
Hemorrhoidectomy in Iran is performed to remove hemorrhoids that are severe and have not responded to other treatments. This surgical procedure is considered when less invasive methods fail to provide relief from symptoms such as itching, bleeding, and pain. It is a safe and effective treatment that aims to eliminate hemorrhoids.
The procedure is usually carried out in a hospital setting and may be an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to go home the same day. In some cases, however, an overnight stay may be required. Pre-operative instructions typically include fasting for 6 to 8 hours before the surgery, and patients are advised to arrange transportation home as they will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure.
In terms of costs, prices can range significantly. On the lower end, the cost of a hemorrhoidectomy in Iran ranges from 500-1500 USD. These costs are influenced by the complexity of the surgery, the type of anesthesia used, and the need for any additional medical care or follow-up treatments.
It's important to note that these figures are estimates and the actual cost may differ. Patients considering a hemorrhoidectomy in Iran should consult with medical facilities directly to get a more accurate quote based on their specific situation. Additionally, many healthcare providers in Iran offer packages that include pre-surgery consultation, the surgery itself, and post-operative care, which can be a cost-effective option for patients.