Last updated: 02-21-2012
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Anal/ Rectal Procedures
Anorectal procedures performed by our board-certified colon and rectal surgeons may include:
- Hemorrhoid Procedures
Procedures used to treat hemorrhoids include:- Infrared photocoagulation
- Rubber band ligation
- Standard hemorrhoidectomy
- Doppler guided hemorrhoid ligation
- Treatment of Anal abscesses and Fistulas
Anal abscesses are treated by incising and draining the infected area. This is usually done as an office procedure, but sometimes may require use of a formal operating room if the abscesses are unusually large, or there are medical problems due to an underlying condition such as diabetes.
Surgical treatment of a fistula usually involves opening the tract and letting it heal from the inside, but there are sphincter sparing operations including flap procedures and plug procedures. - Repair of Sphincter Injuries
Surgery entails finding the ends of the injured sphincter muscles and rejoining them. - Repair of a Fissure
The spastic internal sphincter prevents healing of the open, painful fissure. If the sphincter is relaxed, the fissure heals. Therefore a small cut in the margin of the internal sphincter called a sphincterotomy, relaxes the muscle. This tiny operation is very successful.
What to expect for anal/rectal procedures
- Your doctor will give you bowel preparations for the night before your surgery. These typically include taking a laxative and not eating or drinking after midnight. You should also avoid taking medications that create bleeding problems such as aspirin.
- Most anal/rectal procedures last for one hour. However, the entire process keeps you at MedStar Washington Hospital Center for three to four hours.
- Recovery time is different for each patient. However, most patients experience discomfort for 10-14 days following the procedure. Your doctor will prescribe a pain management regimen to help you with the pain.