What is infrared photocoagulation for hemorrhoids?
Infrared photocoagulation treats hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal area. In most cases, this procedure can be done in the doctor's office. Only one hemorrhoid can be treated at a time. This treatment is only for internal hemorrhoids.
Why is infrared photocoagulation for hemorrhoids done?
Doctors recommend coagulation therapy in cases where small internal hemorrhoids continue to cause symptoms after home treatment.
How is infrared photocoagulation for hemorrhoids done?
During the procedure, your doctor uses an intense beam of infrared light. The light creates heat that scars the hemorrhoid. This stops blood flow to the hemorrhoids. The hemorrhoids shrink and fall off 7 to 10 days after the procedure.
You may feel heat and some pain during the procedure.
You will be able to go home right after the procedure.
After hemorrhoid infrared photocoagulation: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You are short of breath.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the area.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
- You are sick to your stomach or cannot drink fluids.
- You have signs of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
- Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.
- You cannot pass stools or gas.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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