Best Hemorrhoid Surgeons and Proctologists: Is There One?

Medically reviewed by: Gary H. Hoffman, MD

The Best.

Best Hemorrhoid Surgeon. Best Proctologist. Is There A BestA hemorrhoid is just a hemorrhoid and a surgeon is just a surgeon.  They are all alike.  Are both of these statements true? Simply put, No and No.  Hemorrhoids present in many different forms and variations.  And hemorrhoid surgeons have different levels of training and skill. There are many forms of hemorrhoids, and only a few best hemorrhoid surgeons.

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There are internal and external hemorrhoids.  There are relatively few proctologists, also known as colon and rectal surgeons, or coloproctologists.

What Is A Hemorrhoid?

A hemorrhoid is a collection of veins, arteries, nerves and connective tissue. They are present at birth, are located in three major areas of the rectum and serve to cushion stool as it passes from the rectum, into the anal canal, and then out.  So far, all normal.  However, when, for one of many reasons, the hemorrhoids become enlarged or swollen, or when they prolapse out of the rectum, they become symptomatic.

What Is A Proctologist?

First and foremost, a proctologist, or colon and rectal surgeon, is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) with a minimum of 4 years of medical school.  He or she has passed three sets of standardized national exams as well as maintaining excellent grades in medical school. Following graduation and state licensure, the physician takes five years of focused residency training in general surgery.  The resident is closely mentored by a faculty, takes yearly in-service examinations and takes on progressively more in depth surgical responsibilities.

Following the completion of residency, the surgeon takes a one year fellowship in Colon and Rectal Surgery.  The study and training is intense.  During this year, the surgeon takes and passes general surgery written and oral board exams.  At the conclusion of the one year fellowship, the surgeon takes and passes another set of written and oral boards.  It is at this point that the newly trained surgeon enters practice.  Ten years following graduation from college.

Back To Hemorrhoids.  What Are The Symptoms That Might Require Surgery?

If the medical treatment of your hemorrhoids has failed,, you might consider an operation. What are the symptoms that might propel you down this path?

  • Bleeding
  • Pain
  • Prolapse (protrusion)
  • Uncontrollable itching.
  • Discharge into you under clothes.
  • Leakage of stool

What Types of Operations Are Available To You?

  • PPH (Procedure For Prolapse And Hemorrhoids)
  • THD (Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization)
  • Traditional excisional hemorrhoidectomy

Put It all Together.  Which Operation?  Which Surgeon?

The type of operation will be determined by your surgeon after discussing with you your goals, the risks and benefits of each operation, and your preferences, if there is a choice.

Your surgeon should be experienced and should have a good reputation within your community.  Focused practice in the field of colon and rectal surgery is important.  Your surgeon should be patient, allowing you to feel that all of your issues have been addressed and all of your questions answered.  You will know at some level that you are in the right hands.  Is there a “Best” surgeon?  Are there several “Best” surgeons in a community?  Yes. This answer is based on many variables.

Los Angeles Colon and Rectal Surgical Associates.

The surgeons of Los Angeles Colon and Rectal Surgical Associates have spent many years in training, to care for you.  Their care is focused, skilled and reassuring.  You may make an appointment to consult with one of the surgeons at (310)273-2310.  Although hemorrhoids are usually not life threatening, treating them may be life changing.  Make sure you are with the best surgeon.

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