A haemorrhoidectomy, commonly called piles surgery, is a procedure to remove haemorrhoids – swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort.
This procedure is typically recommended for cases of severe haemorrhoids or when non-surgical treatments have proven ineffective. By removing the affected veins, haemorrhoidectomy aims to reduce symptoms and prevent further complications associated with haemorrhoids.
Piles surgery is typically recommended for specific cases where haemorrhoids cause persistent symptoms or complications.
Haemorrhoidectomy is recommended when pain or discomfort from haemorrhoids is severe and disrupts daily activities. Surgery is considered when these symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatments.
Frequent or severe bleeding from haemorrhoids can lead to complications like anaemia if left untreated. Haemorrhoidectomy is often necessary when bleeding persists despite other medical interventions.
Prolapsed haemorrhoids extend outside the anus and are difficult to manage with conservative treatments. Surgery can be an effective solution to remove and alleviate symptoms associated with prolapsed haemorrhoids.
Frequent recurrence of haemorrhoids despite lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments may indicate a need for haemorrhoidectomy. Surgical removal reduces the risk of further flare-ups.
Haemorrhoids that do not respond to medications, dietary changes, or less invasive procedures may require surgical intervention. Haemorrhoidectomy provides a definitive approach when other options have proven insufficient.
A haemorrhoidectomy offers several key benefits for patients with severe or persistent haemorrhoids that haven’t responded to other treatments.
Haemorrhoidectomy provides long-term relief from pain and discomfort caused by haemorrhoids, allowing patients to perform daily activities comfortably. Removing the haemorrhoids eliminates the source of these symptoms.
Haemorrhoidectomy lowers the risk of complications such as anaemia caused by chronic bleeding and infections related to prolapsed haemorrhoids. By addressing these issues, the procedure helps prevent further health concerns associated with untreated haemorrhoids.
Following haemorrhoidectomy, patients often experience less straining and discomfort during bowel movements. This can help in preventing the formation of new haemorrhoids after surgery.
Haemorrhoidectomy reduces the likelihood of haemorrhoids returning, particularly beneficial for patients with a history of frequent episodes. This provides a more lasting solution compared to non-surgical options.
There are several types of haemorrhoidectomy procedures, each aimed at addressing different haemorrhoid conditions and patient needs.
In this procedure, haemorrhoids are surgically removed through incisions around the affected area. This method is particularly effective for large or severe haemorrhoids and provides significant relief, however, recovery may take slightly longer than other techniques.
Also known as PPH (procedure for prolapse and haemorrhoids), this procedure uses a stapling device to reposition and secure prolapsed haemorrhoid tissue within the rectum. It is primarily used for internal haemorrhoids and generally results in less post-operative pain than conventional haemorrhoidectomy.
This technique uses a laser to remove or shrink haemorrhoid tissue, minimising impact on surrounding areas. Laser haemorrhoidectomy may lead to reduced bleeding and faster recovery and is typically suited for mild to moderate haemorrhoids.
THD is a minimally invasive approach that involves tying off the blood vessels supplying the haemorrhoid, which causes it to shrink. This method is often used for prolapsed haemorrhoids and also typically results in less post-operative pain and faster recovery than conventional haemorrhoidectomy.
Proper preparation prior to surgery is required to ensure a safe procedure, which includes the following:
Patients undergo a medical assessment to determine their suitability for surgery, which includes blood tests and a review of any existing medical conditions. This evaluation helps identify and minimise potential surgical risks.
A low-residue diet may be advised in the days leading up to surgery to reduce bowel movements. Patients are generally instructed to fast from midnight on the day of the procedure to ensure the digestive system is prepared.
Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be paused before surgery to minimise bleeding risk. Specific instructions on medication management will be provided as part of the pre-surgical preparation, under the guidance of a piles specialist.
The haemorrhoidectomy procedure involves several steps to carefully remove or reduce haemorrhoid tissue and promote effective healing.
General or regional anaesthesia is administered to ensure the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The choice of anaesthesia depends on the patient’s condition and the specific haemorrhoidectomy method.
Your singapore piles specialist will determine the most appropriate haemorrhoidectomy technique based on the size, location, and severity of the haemorrhoids. Options may include excision, stapling, laser removal, or dearterialisation, each tailored to address specific types of haemorrhoids and minimise post-operative discomfort. The choice of technique aims to effectively remove or reduce the haemorrhoids while preserving surrounding tissue as much as possible.
Depending on the technique used, the surgical area may be left open to heal naturally or closed with dissolvable stitches. This decision is based on the surgical approach and the need to promote healing while minimising tissue trauma.
Following the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery room to ensure their stability as they awaken from anaesthesia. Pain management and observation are provided to address any immediate post-surgical needs.
Following specific care guidelines after surgery is necessary for a smooth recovery and the prevention of complications.
Once stable, patients are discharged with detailed instructions on managing pain, wound care, and activity restrictions. Patients are advised to arrange transportation home due to anaesthesia effects.
Most patients can resume light activities, such as walking or gentle daily tasks, within a week after haemorrhoidectomy. Some initial swelling and discomfort are common and expected during this time, with your singapore piles surgeon overseeing recovery progress.
Complete recovery usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the surgical method and individual factors such as age, overall health, and the presence of any underlying conditions. Patients are advised to follow all post-operative care instructions, including activity restrictions such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, as well as wound care, to support healing.
A follow-up appointment is scheduled within 2 to 4 weeks to assess healing progress and address any post-surgical concerns. These visits support a smooth recovery process and address any complications early.
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Common risks after haemorrhoidectomy include post-operative pain and minor bleeding, especially during bowel movements, both of which typically subside within a few days. Pain is manageable with medication, while bleeding generally resolves on its own; however, any persistent symptoms should be reported. Infection at the surgical site is a possible risk, so maintaining cleanliness and adhering to care instructions is necessary. Temporary urinary retention may occur due to anaesthesia or pelvic muscle pressure, usually resolving on its own but should be monitored if prolonged.
MBBS (S’pore)|
M.Med (Surgery)|
MRCS (Ireland)|
FRCS (Edin)|
王健名医生
Dr. Calvin Ong is a Senior Consultant with more than 15 years of surgical experience. He specializes in colorectal and general surgery, performing minimally invasive as well as advanced robotic surgeries for benign and malignant colorectal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, pelvic floor disorders, colorectal cancer, and hernia repair. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalised care for his patients.
Dr. Ong graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in medicine and surgery from the National University of Singapore in 2008 and completed his Masters of Medicine (Surgery) at the same institute. He finished his advanced specialist training in 2016 and became a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
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The duration of a piles procedure in Singapore varies but generally lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the case.
While the procedure removes existing haemorrhoids, new haemorrhoids can develop over time, particularly if lifestyle changes are not made to prevent them, such as maintaining a high-fibre diet and avoiding straining during bowel movements.
Haemorrhoidectomy is generally safe, but some rare long-term side effects may include anal stenosis (narrowing of the anal canal) or issues with stool control. These are uncommon and usually related to extensive haemorrhoid cases.
After surgery, patients are usually advised to eat a high-fibre diet and drink plenty of water to prevent straining. Your specialist may recommend avoiding spicy or hard-to-digest foods temporarily.
Yes, many piles procedures, especially minimally invasive ones, can be performed as day surgery, meaning you can return home the same day.
Incontinence is rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced piles surgeon. However, it’s a known complication for certain types of surgery and will be discussed during consultation.
Surgery is usually avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Most piles treatments during pregnancy are conservative. Surgery, if needed, is usually postponed until after childbirth.
Recovery downtime depends on the surgical method. Some patients return to desk jobs within a few days, while those undergoing traditional surgery may need a week or more.
Piles often present with painless bleeding, while fissures cause sharp pain during bowel movements. A proper diagnosis by a singapore piles specialist is key to receiving the correct treatment.
While piles are a common cause of rectal bleeding, your colorectal specialist may recommend a colonoscopy if you have symptoms like persistent bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or if you’re over 50. This helps rule out other serious conditions like polyps or colorectal cancer.
Learn how piles surgery costs vary based on procedure type, surgeon expertise, and hospital choice.
