Living with hemorrhoids can be difficult under the best of circumstances.
Even if hemorrhoids are relatively small and hardly noticeable, they can still make everyday functions like lifting or sitting impossible. Instead of using over-the-counter remedies like gels and creams, you could have internal hemorrhoids removed by undergoing infrared coagulation, or IRC. Infrared coagulation, or IRC as it is sometimes called, is a minimally invasive procedure that eliminates small to mid-size hemorrhoids.
- Only one hemorrhoid at a time can be treated with IRC.
- You must wait 10 to 14 days after having one hemorrhoid treating before undergoing IRC for another.
Still, IRC is an effective way of addressing internal hemorrhoids that cause symptoms like pain, itching, and bleeding. It involves the use of infrared light to stop the blood flow to hemorrhoid tissue. The light prompts the formation of scar tissue within the hemorrhoid and prevent veins in the anus from bulging outside of the body.
IRC is a safe procedure that can be ideal for patients who are not candidates for more invasive hemorrhoid surgery. It is performed on an outpatient basis in the doctor's office or single day surgery clinic.
Infrared Coagulation Procedure
The procedure for IRC is relatively quick and painless. Most procedures take around 15 to 30 minutes to complete. You will be awake during the entire operation so the doctor can gauge your level of discomfort.
Before the operation begins, the doctor will use a numbing cream in and around the anus. He or she will then inject the hemorrhoid being treated with a local anesthetic. You will not feel the injection thanks to the application of numbing cream.
The surgeon will then insert the surgical laser instrument, called an anoscope, into the anus. The anoscope is about the same size as a pencil. Its small size helps to prevent damages like tears and bleeding.
After the procedure is finished, the surgeon will apply a layer of topical ointment to prevent bleeding. You will then remain under observation in the recovery are to make sure you do not develop an allergic reaction or other complications to the procedure.
IRC Recovery at Home
After you are sent home to recover, it is important that you follow your doctor's post-surgery instructions. Your doctor will advise you to eat a high fiber diet and drink lots of water to keep your stools soft. You are cautioned to avoid straining during bowel movements to prevent bleeding and tears in the treated area.
You also should avoid heavy lifting for up to three weeks after the operation. Most people go back to work after one to two days, however. You should then follow up with your surgeon three to four weeks after the procedure to make sure you are healing properly or to start treatment on other internal hemorrhoids.
Infrared coagulation effectively eliminates internal hemorrhoids. It is minimally invasive and ideal for people who may not be eligible for more invasive hemorrhoid surgery.