Laser Hemorrhoidectomy

Consultations offered at our four convenient locations in Pomona, Beverly Hills, Rancho Cucamonga and Apple Valley, CA

About Hemorrhoidectomy

A hemorrhoidectomy is a safe, effective procedure that removes swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, relieving the persistent symptoms of itching and discomfort that are associated with hemorrhoids. In the United States alone, hemorrhoid treatment is the third most common gastrointestinal diagnosis with data showing almost 4 million office and emergency department visits annually.(1)

Hemorrhoids occur when the veins of the lower gastrointestinal system stretch under pressure. Also known by many colloquially as “piles”, they may appear as bulging, bluish colored bumps in or around the anus, and can be a painful, irritating affliction on an already highly sensitive area of the anatomy. There are a number of things that are thought to lead to the occurrence of hemorrhoids, including:

  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Persistent diarrhea and constipation
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Irregularity of bowel movements
  • Aging
  • Overuse of laxatives
  • Prolonged sitting in the same position
  • Obesity

In a laser-based hemorrhoidectomy procedure, skilled surgeons utilize powerful low radiation electromagnetic energy to shrink and remove hemorrhoid tissue with minimal discomfort. Offering his services at three convenient locations in Beverly Hills, Pomona, and Apple Valley, CA, board-certified bariatric surgeon and hemorrhoid specialist Dr. Lee Au is ready to help you solve your hemorrhoid woes. For a personal consultation about the individual benefits a hemorrhoidectomy procedure could provide for you, speak to our helpful staff at Pacific Med Health Group, or call (800) 555-5551 for a personal treatment plan tailored to your specific medical needs.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Unfortunately for many of us, hemorrhoids do not discriminate. Both men and women suffer in equal measure from irritation that can cause significant discomfort and embarrassment.  Hemorrhoids are a common ailment that can cause disruptions to our daily routines, so it is important to get help at your earliest convenience. You may experience a variety of undignified and unwanted symptoms as a result of hemorrhoids, including:

  • Extreme anal itching (pruritus)
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Noticeable lumps of tissue protruding from the anus
  • Mucous or blood after wiping or in underwear
  • Bluish appearance of skin in the affected area

Hemorrhoids have been a documented malady since some of the earliest recorded anatomical afflictions, and are even mentioned in the Bible!(Deuteronomy 28:27 describes “emerods”, which is an archaic term for hemorrhoids).(2) As they are an ever-present source of malaise for people of all races, ages, and backgrounds, a detailed system of classification for hemorrhoids has been created by medical professionals. Hemorrhoids can broadly be categorised into one of two groups:

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the lining of the rectum. They rarely cause discomfort as there are fewer nerve endings in this area, but can sometimes emerge as a result of excessive straining during bowel evacuation.

External Hemorrhoids

Located under the skin of the anus, external hemorrhoids sit in a lower position anatomically than internal hemorrhoids. With external pile prolapse, there may be an increased risk of thrombosed hemorrhoids Although this is not dangerous, thrombosed hemorrhoids cause blood clotting in the affected vein, which may cause discomfort and bleeding. There is also a condition known as a strangulated hemorrhoid.

The Problem With Prolapsed Hemorrhoids

Prolapsed hemorrhoids are veins that protrude outside the body as swollen bumps which may have to be gently pushed back in, depending on their severity. They are usually sub-categorised in the following way:

  • Grade One: No prolapse
  • Grade Two: Prolapse only with excessive straining, returning to their correct location without manual assistance
  • Grade Three: Prolapse that must be returned to the correct location manually
  • Grade Four: Prolapse that is too painful for patients to push back in

Frustratingly, the topic of hemorrhoids can leave some people feeling a sense of shame and embarrassment due to their proximity to our most intimate areas. As a result, it is thought that the prevalence of hemorrhoids is underreported.(3) It should be stressed however, that any condition causing such substantial discomfort is treated with the utmost discretion and understanding here at Pacific Med Health Group. There is no condition too embarrassing for our experienced surgeon, Dr. Au. Experience expert relief from the pains of piles in the form of a laser hemorrhoidectomy. Fill out an inquiry form on our website to start on the path back to comfort and composure!

Benefits of Laser Hemorrhoidectomy

Studies have concluded that laser hemorrhoidectomy is a safe and effective non-excisional surgery. (4) Patients who choose laser hemorrhoidectomy often do so because it is minimally invasive and can provide an end to persistent hemorrhoidal discomfort. Some of the benefits of laser hemorrhoidectomy:

  • Reduced damage to healthy tissue around problem area
  • Seals blood vessels, reducing the occurrence of excessive bleeding
  • Minimal discomfort during surgery
  • Outpatient procedure allows you to return home the same day
  • No delicate stitches in the area as are found with traditional hemorrhoidectomy procedures

If you experience unwanted irritation from hemorrhoids, it’s time to speak to Dr. Au about laser hemorrhoidectomy. His expert knowledge and experience will help you feel at ease. Call (800) 555-5551 to hear more about the newest treatments available at Pacific Med Health Group.

Candidates for Hemorrhoidectomy in Los Angeles

Patients who seek hemorrhoidectomy are looking to mitigate the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Ideal candidates for the procedure:

  • Have both internal and external hemorrhoids
  • Experience noticeable pain and bleeding caused by hemorrhoids
  • Have prolapsed hemorrhoids
  • Other hemorrhoid therapies have not been successful
  • Have a hemorrhoid with a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoids)
  • Have a hemorrhoid the anal sphincter has trapped, cutting off blood supply (strangulated hemorrhoid)

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Personal Consultation

We give our patients peace of mind during their time of need. During your consultation, you should not be afraid of opening a frank and honest dialogue about your hemorrhoid discomfort. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Au has almost certainly seen it before! You will tell him how your hemorrhoids have affected your daily routine and the extent of your pain and discomfort, after which, there may be a limited physical examination. Dr. Au will observe the location and size of the hemorrhoids. He will then give advice on the best treatment for your personal needs. Certain hemorrhoidal conditions are not a good fit for laser hemorrhoidectomy, so a personal consultation is vital to ensure you get the most beneficial results from your surgery. With locations in Beverly Hills, Apple Valley and Pomona, find the location closest to you to begin your hemorrhoidectomy journey and a path to a more comfortable life.

Laser Hemorrhoidectomy Procedure

A laser hemorrhoidectomy is one of the least invasive surgery options for patients suffering  with hemorrhoids. As there is no cutting involved, there is evidence that postoperative pain is significantly less than with conventional incision-based operations.(5) It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, so you will be able to return to most of your daily activities on the same day as your surgery.

During the procedure, Dr. Au will insert a probe into the anal canal to detect the hemorrhoids for removal. He will then use pulsed laser shots to target these areas. The intense, focused energy cauterizes each vein and simultaneously, the hemorrhoid is removed. Cauterization minimizes excess bleeding, and the area is left hemorrhoid free, with minimal discomfort.

Recovery and Risks of a Hemorrhoidectomy

Laser hemorrhoidectomy is a popular, safe option for patients dealing with hemorrhoids. There are no sutures that could tug, or large wounds to heal, so recovery time is usually reduced. Although there will be some pain, this is a temporary and necessary part of the healing process. During the post-procedural period, there are some things you can do to ensure a speedy recovery:

  • Avoid strenuous activity that could cause unnecessary pressure in the area for up to two weeks after the procedure
  • Use over-the-counter pain medications to mitigate any discomfort
  • Soak frequently in a sitz bath to promote blood flow and promote healing
  • Where necessary, take stool softeners to reduce straining during bowel movements
  • Book a follow-up appointment with Dr. Au to ensure healing is taking place as expected

As with any procedure, there may be impediments to the healing of the area after pile removal, however, these are rare. One of the most important aspects of healing after a hemorrhoidectomy is ensuring you do not overexert yourself. Take time to relax for a few days, and not long after your procedure, your discomfort will subside and you will be able to go about your daily routine with ease.

Cost of a Hemorrhoidectomy in Los Angeles

The cost of your hemorrhoidectomy will depend on your individual medical circumstances. At Pacific Med Health Group, we want to give you as much power over your decisions before, during and after treatment as possible. In some circumstances, hemorrhoidectomy surgery will be covered by health insurance. For your convenience, we offer a free insurance verification service for our patients. Click here to see if your health insurance covers a laser hemorrhoidectomy procedure with Dr. Au.

FAQ

Is a laser hemorrhoidectomy an outpatient procedure?

A laser hemorrhoidectomy is minimally-invasive, meaning that most treatments take place as outpatient procedures.

I’m embarrassed to see a doctor about my hemorrhoids, what should I do?

Remember that your health and wellbeing are more important than feeling embarrassed. Medical practitioners who specialize in such services perform laser hemorrhoidectomy procedures on a monthly, sometimes weekly, basis. For your comfort and convenience, it is strongly recommended you seek medical attention if your hemorrhoids are excessively itchy, bleeding frequently, or causing you pain.

Can I sit down after a laser hemorrhoidectomy?

It is important to minimize sitting for longer periods of time whenever possible after your hemorrhoidectomy treatment. Your doctor will recommend a high fiber diet and stool softeners to ease the temporary discomfort after your laser hemorrhoidectomy procedure.

Do bowel movements hurt after a laser hemorrhoidectomy?

You may experience moderate discomfort in the first two weeks after your hemorrhoidectomy procedure. These symptoms will subside with time, and can be mitigated with over-the-counter pain medications, numbing medications, ice packs, and sitz baths.

Who performs a laser hemorrhoidectomy?

A licensed medical professional performs laser hemorrhoidectomy procedures. They may be a general surgeon, or a specialist such as a colorectal surgeon, gastroenterologist, proctologist, or bariatric surgeon. These doctors have the sensitivity and expertise to help relieve you from the stresses of painful hemorrhoids.

Can hemorrhoids return after a laser hemorrhoid procedure?

The long-term success of a laser hemorrhoid procedure is dependent on a number of factors, a key component of which is a patient’s diet and bowel habits. Laser hemorrhoid surgery may remove the problematic piles in question, but others could appear without adequate aftercare and lifestyle alterations. Speak to a licensed medical professional about laser hemorrhoid treatment and aftercare to find out more.

References

  1. Sandler, R. S., & Peery, A. F. (2019). Rethinking What We Know About Hemorrhoids. Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association, 17(1), 8–15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2018.03.020
  2. Ganz, R. A., (2013). The Evaluation and Treatment of Hemorrhoids: A Guide for the Gastroenterologist. Perspectives in clinical gastroenterology and hepatology, 11(6), 593-603. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2012.12.020
  3. Percalli, L., Passalia, L., Pricolo, R., & Riccò, M. (2019). Pre-operative assessment of internal mucosal rectal prolapse in internal hemorrhoids: technical details and results from a single institution. Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis, 90(2), 308–315. https://doi.org/10.23750/abm.v90i2.6988 
  4. Longchamp, G., Liot, E., Meyer, J. et al (2021). Non-excisional laser therapies for hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review of the literature. Lasers Med Sci 36, 485–496. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-020-03142-8 
  5. Maloku, H., Gashi, Z., Lazovic, R., Islami, H., & Juniku-Shkololli, A. (2014). Laser Hemorrhoidoplasty Procedure vs Open Surgical Hemorrhoidectomy: a Trial Comparing 2 Treatments for Hemorrhoids of Third and Fourth Degree. Acta informatica medica : AIM : journal of the Society for Medical Informatics of Bosnia & Herzegovina : casopis Drustva za medicinsku informatiku BiH, 22(6), 365–367. https://doi.org/10.5455/aim.2014.22.365-367