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How a Hemorrhoidectomy Works
A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical treatment for a severe hemorrhoid condition and is only used as a last resort and when other hemorrhoid treatments have failed. A hemorrhoid condition occurs when the anal veins become swollen as a result of straining during a bowel movement or other factors and it can become so problematic that the only option is to have the hemorrhoids entirely removed through an extreme surgical procedure. Also, if the hemorrhoid condition becomes severe blood clots can develop inside the hemorrhoid which requires immediate medical attention.The ProcedureA hemorrhoidectomy is performed with the use of a knife which is known as a scalpel and the operation is done in a hospital. Prior to the surgery a local anesthetic is administered which will last anywhere from six to twelve hours. The procedure does not take 6-12 hours however, the anesthetic is effective in relieving the pain you will experience after the procedure is complete. During the surgery, the surgeon uses a scalpel to cut the hemorrhoid open to remove the existing blood clot. Following blood clot removal a circular stapling device is used to remove the tissues of the hemorrhoid and to close up the wound. Depending upon the condition the hemorrhoid can also be lifted and stapled to the inner lining of the anal canal. After the procedure is complete you will be held in the hospital until the anesthetic wears off and until you have been able to pass urine. Sometimes urination is difficult following this procedure due to swollen tissues or abdominal muscle spasms. Depending upon your condition after the surgery you may be held in the hospital or released the same day. What to Expect Following a HemorrhoidectomyYou will most likely experience pain following this procedure and your doctor will prescribe medication to relieve the pain. In some cases an over the counter pain reliever can be an effective treatment for the pain that follows the surgery. You may also experience some bleeding which is normal and you will most likely see blood in your first bowel movement following the surgery. Your doctor may also recommend taking a warm water sitz bath several times a day and applying a cold ice compress in between the sitz baths to reduce the discomfort in the anal area. 
Folks, this is the last thing you want to have to do. Talk about a pain in the butt! There are many other options out there - but mostly just take care of your hemorrhoids early by better diet and exercise. Risks Associated with a HemorrhoidectomyPain, bleeding, and difficulty with urination are a part of the normal side affects that follow hemorrhoid surgery however, there are some risks associated with having this type of procedure. When you first come home you may experience problems with controlling your bladder and the bleeding that results from the surgery can possibly develop into a hematoma. If any of these symptoms occur it is wise to contact your doctor to ensure that you get proper medical attention. Other risks can include the rectal lining slipping out of the opening in your anus which is also known as a rectal prolapse. You can also experience a contraction of the anal canal which will cause stools to get trapped in the anal canal and cause the hemorrhoid condition to return. Things to ConsiderHemorrhoid surgery is a serious step in relieving a hemorrhoid condition so make sure that this is the last resort for seeking relief from the condition. If your physician has performed all of the necessary tests for diagnosing your condition then a hemorrhoidectomy is most likely the appropriate solution. If your condition is borderline and there is a possibility of seeking an alternative treatment than it may be a good idea to explore that route before opting to have this extreme hemorrhoid treatment.
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