Hemorrhoid Procedures

When hemorrhoids cause persistent bleeding, pain, or prolapse that does not improve with conservative treatment, medical procedures may be recommended.

Most hemorrhoid treatments are minimally invasive and performed in the office, while more advanced cases may require surgery.

Dr. Aisha Akhtar, a board-certified colorectal surgeon in Phoenix, offers a range of procedures for hemorrhoid treatment depending on the severity of symptoms and the type of hemorrhoid.

Office-Based Hemorrhoid Procedures

Many hemorrhoids can be treated using simple outpatient procedures with minimal recovery time.

These procedures are most commonly used for internal hemorrhoids that continue to bleed or prolapse.

Rubber Band Ligation (Hemorrhoid Banding)

Rubber band ligation is one of the most common treatments for internal hemorrhoids.

During the procedure:

• A small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid
• The band cuts off the blood supply
• The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off within a few days

Benefits include:

• Quick office procedure
• Minimal discomfort
• No hospital stay required

Learn more:

👉 Rubber Band Ligation

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy treats hemorrhoids by injecting a special solution into the hemorrhoidal tissue.

The injected medication causes the blood vessels to collapse and the hemorrhoid gradually shrinks.

Sclerotherapy may be recommended for:

• Small internal hemorrhoids
• Early-stage hemorrhoids
• Patients who are not candidates for other procedures

Learn more:

👉 Sclerotherapy for Hemorrhoids

Infrared Coagulation

Infrared coagulation uses infrared light energy to shrink hemorrhoidal tissue.

The heat generated by infrared light creates scar tissue that cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid.

This treatment is commonly used for small to moderate internal hemorrhoids, particularly those causing bleeding.

Learn more:

👉 Infrared Coagulation Treatment

Surgical Hemorrhoid Procedures

Surgery may be recommended for severe hemorrhoids or symptoms that do not improve with office treatments.

Hemorrhoidectomy

A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove large or severe hemorrhoids.

It is often recommended for:

• Large external hemorrhoids
• Grade III or Grade IV internal hemorrhoids
• Recurrent hemorrhoids
• Severe symptoms not responding to other treatments

Although recovery may take longer than office procedures, hemorrhoidectomy provides long-term symptom relief.

Learn more:

👉 Hemorrhoidectomy Surgery

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is another surgical option primarily used for prolapsing internal hemorrhoids.

This procedure:

• Repositions the hemorrhoid tissue
• Reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoids
• Helps relieve prolapse symptoms

It typically causes less postoperative pain than traditional hemorrhoidectomy, although it is not appropriate for every patient.

👉 Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy

Preparing for Hemorrhoid Procedures

Before undergoing treatment, patients should understand how to prepare and what to expect.

Important preparation instructions include medication management, bowel preparation, and recovery planning.

Learn more:

👉 Pre-Procedure Guidelines

Treatment Approach for Hemorrhoids

Treatment decisions depend on several factors, including:

• Severity of symptoms
• Type of hemorrhoid (internal vs external)
• Response to conservative treatment
• Patient preference

Many patients improve with lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments, while others benefit from minimally invasive procedures.

When Should You Consider a Hemorrhoid Procedure?

A procedure may be recommended if you experience:

• Persistent rectal bleeding
• Painful hemorrhoids
• Prolapsing hemorrhoids
• Symptoms that do not improve with home treatment

Evaluation by a colorectal specialist helps determine the most appropriate treatment option.

Learn More About Hemorrhoids

You may also explore these guides:

• Hemorrhoids Overview
• Hemorrhoids Symptoms
• Hemorrhoids Procedures
• Hemorrhoids FAQ
• Hemorrhoids Images & Diagrams