An Overview of the Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy (also called “Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids” or PPH
This procedure was developed in the early 1990s as an alternative to the hemorrhoidectomy; it is only used on more advanced grades of hemorrhoids, Grades III and IV.
This procedure is a little hard to explain and visualize, but in the simplest sense, it is like a “face lift” in that the entire anal canal is lifted and secured with staples.
This is done with two medical devices that work in tandem, the Circular Anal Dilator and the Purse-String Suture Anoscope. The Circular Anal Dilator, which is hollow, is inserted first. This devise expands at the top, pushing and securing the prolapsed hemorrhoids back against the anal walls where they belong.
The Purse-String Suture Anoscope is then inserted through the hollow Circular Anal Dilator. The Purse-String Suture Anoscope then places a row of stiches around the entire anal canal as it is rotated, after which this device secures the whole thing in place with staples.
What happens to the staples after this procedure?
The staples are only needed until the hemorrhoids are reduced at which point they will fall out naturally. They’ll leave the body through your stools. It seems like this may be uncomfortable or pain full, but you won’t even notice.
How much time does a Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy take?
This procedure can be completed in about 30 minutes.
Benefits and Disadvantage of the Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy vs. Traditional Hemorrhoidectomy
Benefits
- This hemroid treatment offer a quicker recovery
- Less pain than with traditional surgery
- Less inpatient care needed
Disadvantages
- As with all surgeries, there is a potential for infection.
- The PPH may not work if the hemroids are large and close together (the medical device may not be able to isolate the individual hemorrhoids)
- A few patients may experience persistent fecal urgency and pain
- There is always the risk of both short term and long term side effects
- It’s possible for the anal walls to become stretched out and damaged during this procedure
There are plenty of things to talk to your doctor about if you are considering this type of hemorrhoid treatment, but for those who have been diagnosed with hemorrhoids and suffer from this terrible disease and regular treatments haven’t worked, it is an option.
