Laser coagulation involves a the process of administering piles in various sizes. During the entire treatment, the physician will use an infrared-emitting device that produces heat. High temperature is the main factor to eliminate hemorrhoids by cutting through the swollen veins then hardening the cells. This will cut the blood supply in the severed veins that will eventually lead to the death of the hemorrhoids. Aside from having a scar in the passage through the anus, the hardened cells will also keep the blood vessels in place, so they will not protrude from the anal canal.
The Process of Laser Coagulation for Hemorrhoidal Treatment
Laser coagulation will only treat hemorrhoid one at a time. Other dilated veins will be treated between one to two weeks after the first treatment. This form of treatment can be performed using other tools such as laser or electric current. These tools can also cut the blood flow through the dilated veins. The medical treatment can be performed inside a doctor’s clinic. The client usually experience mild heat alongside mild discomfort, which are normally tolerable. As soon as this treatment is done, the patient may feel discomfort in the abdomen or uncomfortable bowel movements.
What to Expect After Laser Coagulation for Hemorrhoid Treatment?
Mild bleeding from the anal canal after the treatment may happen. After one to two weeks, the bleeding will gradually stop. The patient may be advised to take pain relievers or analgesics. Sitting in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, referred as sitz baths, can also ease the discomfort. In taking analgesics, the patient must avoid Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs or NSAIDs for at least 10 days to avoid bleeding. It is also recommended to take laxatives and consume foods containing high levels of fiber to avoid hard passage of stool of painful bowel movement.
Indications for the Laser Coagulation Treatment
Physicians recommend laser coagulation treatment for internal hemorrhoids or dilated veins that are causing mild discomfort following other kinds of treatments. The process is normally effective for seven out of 10 patients suffering from hemorrhoids. However, the signs and symptoms may happen again and 2 out of 10 patients may need surgical treatment. The risks for this treatment may include severe pain in the course of treatment, infection in the area, bleeding, and discomfort in defecating and urinating.
The Effectiveness of Laser Coagulation Treatment
The effectiveness of the laser coagulation treatment will largely rely on the capability and expertise of the doctor who will perform the procedure. The success of the treatment also relies on the customer’s capacity to alter regular bowel routines to make bowel movement less uncomfortable. This treatment is also less expensive compared to other major surgical treatments. In considering laser coagulation treatment, patients must understand that laser treatments are still under scientific study to uncover more information about its effectiveness compared to other modes of treatment.
Disadvantages of Laser Coagulation Procedure
There are several disadvantages of using laser coagulation treatment. First, the tools required in the treatment are often expensive and there are only few doctors who can effectively perform the treatment. Second, multiple treatments may also be needed, particularly for patients with multiple hemorrhoids. Finally, follow-up procedure is normally required after one year, because the result is not long term compared to other procedures.