Surgical removal of inflamed hemorrhoidal tissue is the most aggressive approach to treating this painful condition, but it is also the most effective. In the past, the go-to option for those who suffered severe pain and discomfort from this condition was a traditional surgical procedure that required us to cut out the tissue, cauterize bleeding vessels, and stitch the tissue back together. Today, however, advances in technology allow for laser hemorrhoid surgery in Los Angeles. This laser procedure is just as effective as traditional surgery and has a number of advantages as well. It is important to note, however, that not all patients are candidates for laser procedures.
How Does Los Angeles Laser Hemorrhoid Surgery Work?
Laser hemorrhoid surgery uses precise lasers to handle the same tasks we used to have to do by hand with a scalpel, cauterizing tool, and other instruments. Using the concentrated beam of light, we can cut through problematic tissue and remove it without damaging surrounding tissue. At the same time, the laser cauterizes blood vessels, sealing them off. This technique makes the procedure more accurate and much quicker than traditional surgery. We typically perform laser hemorrhoid surgery on an outpatient basis, although other health complications may make it necessary for some patients to spend the night in a hospital.
How Does Laser Hemorrhoid Surgery in Los Angeles Compare To Traditional Surgery?
If we believe we can remove your inflamed hemorrhoids through a laser procedure, we will almost always recommend this over traditional surgery. This is because of its numerous advantages over other procedures.
Similarities
Both traditional surgery and laser hemorrhoid surgery are considered hemorrhoidectomies. That is, both remove the whole hemorrhoid, greatly reducing the chance of recurrence. Both procedures are done in an operating room at a clinic, surgical center, or hospital. They both require some type of anesthetic, and we can help you understand whether a general anesthesia, a spinal epidural, or a local anesthetic is best based on your situation.
Availability
Traditional hemorrhoidectomy surgery has been the go-to treatment for severe cases for decades, and almost all colon and rectal surgeons perform this procedure. Laser hemorrhoid surgery in Los Angeles, however, is much more rare. This is a much newer technique, and the lasers and other equipment are expensive. Many surgeons opt not to make that investment, especially if their focus is not on helping patients heal from hemorrhoids. However, we believe the difference this procedure makes for our patients is worth it.
Complications
While there is a risk of complications from any surgical procedure, laser hemorrhoid surgery reduces the damage done to the healthy tissue around the inflamed vein. This, in turn, reduces the risk of tissue death infection, and other common complications. The laser also seals the blood vessels as it cuts, reducing the risk of excessive bleeding during or after the procedure.
What Is The Recovery Period Like After Hemorrhoid Removal Surgery In Los Angeles?
Both traditional and laser hemorrhoid removal procedures are typically done on an outpatient basis, and you return home within a few hours of your surgery. With conventional surgery, after hemorrhoid surgery pain and sensitivity might persist throughout the day and night for several weeks, and it may take a month or more before you fully return to 100 percent. This is because it often requires stitches in very sensitive skin.
We see many patients who undergo laser hemorrhoid surgery bounce back much faster. With warm sitz baths, over-the-counter pain relief, plenty of fluids, and a high-fiber diet, many of our patients are feeling great within a week or two. If you have severe or chronic hemorrhoids and believe surgery may be the next step, you should ask about a laser removal procedure.
If your doctor does not offer Los Angeles laser hemorrhoid surgery, schedule an appointment with us to determine if you are a good candidate. Not all patients qualify for this cutting-edge procedure. However, for those who do, the advantages over a more traditional surgical hemorrhoidectomy are numerous.
