Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Laser Hemorrhoidectomy?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

A laser hemorrhoidectomy is a procedure that employs laser energy for the treatment of hemorrhoids. When this treatment is applied, a medical laser is used to heat the problematic vein, which essentially causes them to collapse and disintegrate. Often, people opt for laser hemorrhoidectomy treatments because they can be used to treat several affected veins at the same time, without pain or a lengthy treatment time. Additionally, patients who have laser treatments for hemorrhoids do not usually spend a lot of time recovering. In most cases, they can return to their normal activities soon after treatment.

There are various options for those who need treatment for hemorrhoids, including traditional surgery. Many people prefer laser treatment, however. Some of the reasons for this may include the fact that laser hemorrhoid treatment is associated with less bleeding since there is no scalpel involved. Many people also appreciate the fact that laser treatment for hemorrhoids is generally associated with less pain than traditional surgery. In fact, laser hemorrhoid treatment is usually pain-free.

Lasers can treat several affected veins at the same time.
Lasers can treat several affected veins at the same time.

Often, people find recovery from traditional surgery for hemorrhoids painful and cannot return to their normal activities for two weeks after surgery. This differs quite a bit from laser surgery. With laser hemorrhoidectomy treatment, recovery is usually less painful and there is typically no need for an overnight stay in a hospital. A patient is usually able to resume his normal schedule of activities within days of the procedure. Still, a person may be advised to avoid strenuous activity for a couple of weeks after a laser hemorrhoidectomy.

An inflatable doughnut pillow may be used for hemorrhoid sufferers both before and after an operation.
An inflatable doughnut pillow may be used for hemorrhoid sufferers both before and after an operation.

Though there are many things that may make a laser hemorrhoidectomy seem desirable, there are potential issues to consider. For example, some people experience temporary numbing in the area around the anus after this type of procedure. Sometimes a patient may also experience bruising or feel stretching of the skin in the area, but this usually fades in about a week or so. Fortunately, infections are rare after a laser hemorrhoidectomy and few people have adverse reactions to the anesthesia used for treatment. Tissue damage is also a risk with this treatment option.

The overuse of laxatives by a person with an eating disorder may cause hemorrhoids.
The overuse of laxatives by a person with an eating disorder may cause hemorrhoids.

Laser hemorrhoidectomy treatment is highly effective for the treatment of hemorrhoids, but it cannot cure a person of hemorrhoids completely. In time, a person may develop a new case of hemorrhoids. Many people are free of hemorrhoid symptoms for at least a couple of years after this type of laser treatment, however.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Lasers can treat several affected veins at the same time.
      By: hacohob
      Lasers can treat several affected veins at the same time.
    • An inflatable doughnut pillow may be used for hemorrhoid sufferers both before and after an operation.
      By: Kitch Bain
      An inflatable doughnut pillow may be used for hemorrhoid sufferers both before and after an operation.
    • The overuse of laxatives by a person with an eating disorder may cause hemorrhoids.
      By: Sylvie Bouchard
      The overuse of laxatives by a person with an eating disorder may cause hemorrhoids.
    • Performing gentle exercising during pregnancy may help prevent hemorrhoids.
      By: evgenyatamanenko
      Performing gentle exercising during pregnancy may help prevent hemorrhoids.
    • Laser treatment for hemorrhoids can help to limit the recovery time that's necessary.
      By: Andrea Danti
      Laser treatment for hemorrhoids can help to limit the recovery time that's necessary.
    • There is no scalpel involved in a laser hemorrhoidectomy.
      By: tinx
      There is no scalpel involved in a laser hemorrhoidectomy.
    • A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein on and around the rectal area.
      By: vonuk
      A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein on and around the rectal area.
    • Some people experience temporary numbing around the anus after a laser hemorrhoidectomy.
      By: kocakayaali
      Some people experience temporary numbing around the anus after a laser hemorrhoidectomy.