Introduction:
Hemorrhoids encompass a range of conditions, including internal and external hemorrhoids, anal tags, thrombosed hemorrhoids, and mixed hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are classified from I to IV based on the degree of prolapse. In addition to causing discomfort, pain, bleeding, and prolapse, hemorrhoids can lead to complications like thrombosis, anemia, and infection. Furthermore, many hemorrhoid patients also present with comorbidities such as anal fissures, fistulas, or anal warts. Given the diversity of these conditions, it’s essential for a comprehensive hemorrhoid clinic to offer a variety of treatment modalities and options to address each patient’s unique needs and deliver thorough care.
Relying on a single treatment modality for hemorrhoids, regardless of their severity, type, or associated anorectal conditions, often results in subpar outcomes and inadequate quality of care.
The reality is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for hemorrhoids or their associated anorectal symptoms. Specialized hemorrhoid clinics should provide multiple treatment modalities featuring state-of-the-art technologies to effectively manage hemorrhoids and related ailments.
Treatment for Internal Hemorrhoids:
Grade 1 Internal Hemorrhoids: very early-stage hemorrhoids can frequently be managed through dietary and lifestyle modifications. These lifestyle changes should also be incorporated into the treatment plan for more advanced cases.
Grade 1-2 Internal Hemorrhoids: infrared Coagulation (IRC) is a non-surgical treatment option that is rapid, well-tolerated, and remarkably low in complications. Infrared light promptly coagulates the vessels supplying blood to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and recede.
Grade 3 Internal Hemorrhoids: rubber band ligation is a widely used treatment for more advanced (more prolapsed) internal hemorrhoids. It involves pulling the prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue into a double-sleeved cylinder to facilitate the placement of rubber bands around the tissue. Over time, the ligated tissue degenerates. In some cases, patients may require Infrared Coagulation (IRC) treatments after Rubber band ligation.
Grade 4 Internal Hemorrhoids:hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the tissue responsible for bleeding or protrusion. It is performed in a doctor’s office, surgical center, or hospital under anesthesia and may necessitate a period of recovery.
Dr. Shu has developed an effective treatment protocol for patients with the most common hemorrhoids ranging from grade 2 to 3, combining initial banding treatments for prolapsed hemorrhoidal areas with infrared coagulation for milder cases.
Treatment of External Hemorrhoids:
External Hemorrhoidal Tags (Anal Tags): small and asymptomatic tags typically require no treatment. When symptomatic, anal tags can be easily removed in an office setting using a local anesthetic and a radiofrequency device.
Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids: these hemorrhoids are generally managed through incision to remove the clot or via external hemorrhoidectomy. Draining the clot typically provides immediate relief from pain, but it may not be as effective if multiple thromboses exist. Therefore, complete excision of the thrombosed hemorrhoids is often recommended for patients with multiple thromboses to prevent recurrence.
External Hemorrhoids: small and asymptomatic external hemorrhoids usually do not necessitate treatment. However, most patients may experience intermittent flare-ups. Over time, patients with large external hemorrhoids and persistent symptomatic external hemorrhoids may require surgery in the form of external hemorrhoidectomy.
Note: One Stop Medical Center provides the service of hemorrhoid care. We have two office locations in Edina, Minnesota, and Casselberry, Florida. If you are interested in hemorrhoid care, Please fill out the online registration first, we will call you in 2 business days, or please call us at 1-888-992-0019 if any questions.
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