INFRARED COAGULATION

Based upon the history of symptoms, one of our trained and certified physicians can suspect that hemorrhoids are present. However, a thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis are essential.

The doctor may examine the anus and rectum to look for swollen blood vessels that indicate external hemorrhoids. For internal hemorrhoids, the physician may perform a digital rectal exam.

In some cases, a more thorough examination for internal hemorrhoids is done visually using an anoscope, a hollow, lighted tube useful for viewing internal hemorrhoids, or a protoscope useful for more completely examining the rectum.

How long does IRC procedure take?

Generally, the procedure can be completed in less than ten minutes. However, treatment time depends on the severity of the hemorrhoid being treated and your comfort level.

Does IRC present any complications?

No serious complications or side effects have been documented with the IRC treatment.

What can be expected after IRC treatment?

There may be slight spot bleeding a few days following the procedure which will resolve spontaneously. Although IRC does not generally disrupt a patient’s lifestyle, you may be advised to avoid heavy straining or lifting. The physician may advise you not to take Aspirin for a few days after the procedure as well.

When can I continue with my daily schedule after IRC treatment?

In general, you can resume normal working activities immediately following the procedure.

How much does IRC procedure cost?

Cost would be determined on a case to case basis but, in the U.S., cost generally ranges between $300 and $600 for each treatment. Most insurance plans pay for this procedure.

Is anesthesia used during IRC procedure?

Anesthetic is generally not required. Some patients report briefly feeling a mild sensation of heat during the procedure but there is no other significant pain involved during treatment.

How many treatments are required?

One of our affiliated physicians can better determine how many treatments you may need upon consultation - some patients may need one treatment while others may need multiple treatments. One to six treatments may be required depending upon the severity of hemorrhoids, symptoms, location of the hemorrhoids and the patient's individual response to the procedure.

If I need multiple procedures, how far apart are treatments scheduled?

Physicians would normally recommend one to six visits at one to two week intervals. Note that a different part of the hemorrhoid tissue would be treated per visit.

How would I know if I am a candidate for IRC treatment?

A thorough evaluation by a physician is needed to determine the ideal and most optimal treatment for your hemorrhoids. IRC can be used effectively to treat small to medium sized hemorrhoids or grades 1 - 3 hemorrhoids.

Are results permanent?

Symptoms generally do not recur after IRC treatment. Several factors may also contribute to remaining symptom-free after IRC therapy including a fiber rich diet, exercise and proper bowel habits.

Click here to contact one of our affiliated physicians at The Hemorrhoid Centers to schedule a consultation and find out if you are a candidate for IRC treatment.

RUBBER BAND LIGATION

Note that the vast majority of procedures performed are IRC-based. Rubber band ligation is only used for severe cases and may be combined with IRC.

How are the constricting bands tied to the hemorrhoid base during rubber band ligation?

Typically, you would be asked to lie down on your left side with knees drawn up and buttocks over the edge of the procedure table. Your physician will then insert a warmed and lubricated scope into the anal canal. Once the hemorrhoid is located, your doctor will place the elastic band around its base.

How long does the rubber band ligation procedure take?

In general, rubber band ligation takes less than an hour.

Will I notice the hemorrhoid fall off after rubber band ligation?

You may or may not. The shriveled hemorrhoid and elastic constricting band will fall off during normal bowel movements. Do note that the band is quite small as it is a rubber O-ring about 1 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm in thickness.

Are there any preparations involved with rubber band ligation?

Prior to the treatment, your doctor would advise you not to take any medication that may cause bleeding (e.g. aspirin). Pre-operative antibiotics may also be prescribed by your physician upon diagnosis especially if you have immune deficiency, implanted prosthetic devices (e.g. heart valves & artificial joints) or other medical conditions. Pain killers may also be prescribed if you have an extreme level of anxiety prior to such procedures.

Is anesthesia used for rubber band ligation?

Since only a minor discomfort or mild pinching sensation is felt by the patient during rubber band ligation, it may be performed without an anesthetic. However, your physician may give you a local anesthetic to reduce post-banding pain. Some anxious patients may also be given a sedative for relaxation. Some physicians may use general anesthesia. However, these decisions are up to individual physicians performing the procedure.

What should I expect after treatment?

After the procedure, you may feel temporary pain/discomfort and have a sensation of fullness in the lower abdomen, or you may feel as if you need to have a bowel movement. Your physician would advise you to avoid strenuous physical activity for one to two weeks.

Are there any risks involved with rubberband ligation?

Side effects are rare but include post operative pain due to the bands being positioned in an area in the anal canal that contains pain sensors, bleeding, urinary retention and infection.

Am I a candidate for rubberband ligation treatment?

A thorough evaluation by a physician is needed to determine the most ideal treatment for your hemorrhoids. Rubberband ligation can be used effectively to treat second degree hemorrhoids.

Contact an affiliated physician near you to schedule a consultation and find out if you are a candidate for IRC treatment or rubber band ligation.