Infrared Photocoagulation for Internal Hemorrhoids

Treatment Overview

Infrared photocoagulation is used to treat small- and medium-sized internal hemorrhoids. During the treatment, the doctor uses a device that creates an intense beam of infrared light. Heat from the infrared light causes scar tissue where the hemorrhoid bulges from the wall of the anal canal. This stops blood flow to the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off in 7 to 10 days. The scar tissue holds nearby veins in place so they don't bulge into the anal canal.

Only one hemorrhoid can be treated at a time. It takes about 30 minutes. Other hemorrhoids may be treated at 10- to 14-day intervals.

This treatment may also be done with other devices, such as a laser or electrical current, that also stop blood flow to the hemorrhoid.

Infrared photocoagulation is done in a doctor's office. You may feel heat and some pain during the treatment. Afterward, you may have a sensation of fullness in your lower belly. Or you may feel as if you need to have a bowel movement.

You will need to avoid heavy lifting and avoid straining with bowel movements.

What To Expect

• Be as active as you can every day. Walking is a good choice.
• Avoid strenuous activities and lifting anything that would make you strain until your doctor says it's okay.
• Mild bleeding from the anus may occur 7 to 10 days after treatment, when the hemorrhoid falls off. The bleeding will stop by itself.
• If you stopped taking aspirin or some other blood thinner, your doctor will tell you when to start taking it again.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
• You may apply numbing medicines before and after bowel movements to relieve pain.
• Sit in a few inches of warm water (sitz bath) for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day.
• It's important to eat high-fiber foods (such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains) after your treatment. This will make it easier to have bowel movements and keep your hemorrhoids from coming back. Your doctor may suggest a fiber supplement, a stool softener, or a mild laxative.

Why It Is Done

Doctors may recommend infrared photocoagulation for people who have small internal hemorrhoids that continue to cause symptoms after home treatment.

How Well It Works

Infrared photocoagulation works well for most people. But hemorrhoids may return, and some people may need more treatment.

Risks

Risks of coagulation therapy include:

• Moderate to severe pain during the treatment.
• Bleeding from the anus.
• Infection in the anal area.
• Temporary inability to urinate.