The Procedure For Prolapse And Hemorrhoids And Its Benefits

The newest surgical technique in vogue in the treatment for advanced hemorrhoids is known as the procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH). It was developed in Italy in 1997. This minimally invasive procedure has been subsequently introduced in the US in October 2001.

The objective of this procedure is to reduce the enlargement (prolapse) of hemorrhoidal tissue. Through this technique it is possible to reduce the pain experienced and effect faster recovery of patients than with the traditional hemorrhoidectomy (surgery).

This procedure is used when persisting hemorrhoidal pain symptoms constrain doctors to recommend it. It is indicated for patients who either have second degree hemorrhoids after RBL (rubber band ligation) has failed to provide them relief. The procedure is also indicated for patients who have third or fourth degree hemorrhoids or prolapse of the rectal mucosa. In all these patients, the prolapse (swelling) of the veins is the cause of persistent pain.

In second degree hemorrhoid patients the prolapse occurs during bowel movements and causes aching and rectal itching during straining. The prolapse reduces after defecation or straining. In third degree hemorrhoid patients, the prolapse is manually reducible. In fourth degree hemorrhoid patients, it is not possible to reduce the prolapse. In such patients there may be incidents of bright red blood on the toilet tissue or bowl. In some patients, anal tissue or sensitive lumps may be found.

In PPH, a circular stapling device is used to cut out a band of prolapsed anal mucosal membrane thereby reducing the swelling. The procedure helps to lift up or reposition the mucosal or anal canal tissue. It also restores the hemorrhoid to its original anatomical location. PPH also helps reduce the flow of blood to the internal hemorrhoids. After the procedure, the usual precautions of not lifting weights, not undergoing heavy exercises, and using fiber containing whole grain diet are advised by doctors.

With the use of PPH there occurs a shrinking of the internal hemorrhoids in about three to four weeks after the completion of the procedure. The reason the PPH procedure involves less pain than with traditional surgical procedures is that it is performed above the pain (dentate) line in the anal canal. Due to this fewer nerve endings are affected. Traditional hemorrhoidectomy is performed below the dentate line and therefore more pain is associated with that procedure.

Several studies have demonstrated that PPH leads to significantly less pain in patients and faster return to a normal lifestyle. It involves less hospitalization period, less post operative bleeding, itching, and incontinence/constipation in patients compared with other surgical procedures.

Since the introduction of the procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids, doctors in the US prefer it over the much more painful hemorrhoidectomy.

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