Hemorrhoid Surgery Techniques
Milligan-Morgan Hemorrhoid Surgery Technique
The Milligan-Morgan Technique was developed in the United Kingdom in 1937 by Drs. Milligan and Morgan. In this surgery, the three major hemorrhoidal vessels are excised and the pear-shaped incisions are left open, separated by bridges of skin and mucosa. This popular surgery technique is considered the standard by which most other hemorroidectomy techniques are compared.
Ferguson Hemorrhoid Surgery Technique
The Ferguson Technique was developed in the United States in 1952 by Dr. Ferguson. It is a modification of the Milligan-Morgan technique whereby the incision are totally or partially closed with an absorbable suture. However, due to the high rate of suture breakage during bowel movements, the Ferguson Hemorrhoid surgery Technique offers no real advantage in terms of wound healing, pain management, or postoperative complications.
Hemorrhoidectomy, also know as hemorrhoid surgery is the removal of enlarged veins around the anus.
When To See A Doctor for Hemorrhoid Surgery
Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated by a health care professional. While it is most often caused by hemorrhoids, bleeding may also be caused by colon or rectal cancer, colon polyps, Crohn's disease or other conditions. Call your doctor if rectal bleeding occurs even if you are not trying to pass a stool, if your stools become more narrow than normal, your stools are black or tarry, you experience unusual drainage from the anus, a lump develops in the anal area that does not go away, or if a fever accompanies the rectal bleeding.
Have your doctor evaluate your hemorrhoids if you experience moderate rectal pain that lasts for more than a week, severe swelling or pain, a lump in the anal area that becomes bigger and more painful, or if your hemorrhoidal symptoms last persist even with home treatments.
Description of Hemorrhoid Surgery Techniques
Hemorrhoids can be removed while the patient is under either local or general anesthesia. During the surgery, the hemorrhoid is removed and a gauze packing is inserted in the area to reduce bleeding. Two techniques that may be used include the Milligan-Morgan Technique and the Ferguson Technique.
Recovery From Hemorrhoidectomy
The patient may experience considerable pain after hemorrhoid surgery each time the anus tightens and relaxes. A stool softener is also commonly used to avoid straining that would further aggravate the area. Wound infections are uncommon after hemorrhoid surgery, occurring in less than one percent of cases. However, patients can expect some postoperative swelling, and difficulty with urination. Complete recovery can be expected in about two weeks.
Expectations After Hemorrhoidectomy
The outcome of hemorrhoid surgery is typically very good. And preventive measures (such as dietary changes, and daily exercise) can be taken to avoid recurrence.
Risks of Hemorrhoid Surgery Techniques
Anytime anesthesia is used there is a chance of developing breathing problems and an allergic reaction to the medication. And with any surgery, there is a risk of excessive bleeding and infection. Additionally, hemorrhoidectomy can lead to a possible narrowing (stricture) of the anus. If surgery is not done properly, hemorrhoidectomy can cause complications such as severe pain, bleeding or even an inability to pass feces.
