What is Involved in the Piles Injection Treatment?

Piles Injection Treatment – How Sclerotherapy Works

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, can be painful and cause discomfort, bleeding, and itching in the anus area. Among the numerous treatments available, piles injection therapy, also known as sclerotherapy, stands out as a minimally invasive technique rather well suited for early-stage internal haemorrhoids.

Thus, if you or your loved ones are planning to opt for this procedure, having a comprehensive idea of what is involved will help you make a more informed decision. 

Keep reading for detailed insight!

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a chemical solution into the area surrounding every haemorrhoid. In this regard, the most frequently used compounds are polidocanol, quinine, and zinc chloride. The procedure aims to destroy the blood vessels supplying blood to the haemorrhoid, thereby shrinking it.

It is generally conducted without anaesthesia, and the process lasts only a few minutes. Inserting a proctoscope through the anus enables the doctor to view the tissues and, therefore, carefully direct the injections.

When Does a Patient Need Sclerotherapy?

Internal haemorrhoids graded Grade I or II react best to sclerotherapy:

• Grade I: Hemorrhoids that bleed yet do not prolapse.
• Grade II: Hemorrhoids that prolapse during straining but retract spontaneously.
  It is highly beneficial for patients who:
• Experience bleeding without significant prolapse.
• Have contraindications to surgical procedures.
• Prefers non-surgical treatment options.

However, sclerotherapy is not advisable for external haemorrhoids or more advanced internal haemorrhoids (Grades III and IV), where other treatments can be more effective.

What is the Effectiveness of Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is often the preferred method of treatment for internal haemorrhoids since it is minimally invasive and does not require a long recovery time. It is highly efficient against Grade I and Grade II piles and is generally recommended for patients who experience bleeding but without major prolapse. 

Overall, the success rate is excellent, particularly when complementary lifestyle changes such as better hydration and increased fibre intake are added, though some patients may need several visits.

What is Post-Procedure Care for Sclerotherapy?

After undergoing sclerotherapy, patients are recommended to:

• Avoid Vigorous Activities: Rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure.
• Maintain Hygiene: Prevent infections by cleaning the anal region.
• Monitor Symptoms: Report a medical professional right away if you notice signs of infection, severe pain, or excessive bleeding.
• Adopt Dietary Changes: Improve fibre intake and keep well hydrated to ensure easier bowel motions and less pushing.

How is Sclerotherapy Compared to Other Treatments?

One must know how sclerotherapy is different from other treatments when evaluating haemorrhoid therapy possibilities:

• Rubber Band Ligation: By tying off the blood supply, a small rubber band around the bottom of the haemorrhoid will cause it to shrink.
• Infrared Coagulation (IRC): Infrared light is used to sear off the blood circulation in haemorrhoids.

In comparison, sclerotherapy is appealing to a lot of patients with early-stage internal haemorrhoids since it provides a less invasive option with little discomfort and a fast recovery time.

What is Health Insurance Coverage for Piles Injection Treatment?

Under specific policies, including the Young Star Insurance Policy, Star Health provides piles therapy coverage. However, it is subject to a 12-month waiting period. However, it is essential to note that the waiting period length can vary depending on the specific policy and the insured party's medical history. 

Furthermore, sclerotherapy is included in the list of daycare treatments covered by Star Health Insurance. Daycare treatments are medical procedures that do not require an overnight hospital stay. This provision guarantees that insured people can have access to this therapy without having to pay hospitalization fees.

For people with internal haemorrhoids in their early stages, sclerotherapy is a great treatment choice. Its ability to relieve symptoms, together with its relatively low invasiveness, makes it a popular option. Still, as with all medical procedures, it is vital to consult with an experienced healthcare professional to decide the most fitting therapy based on personal circumstances. 

If you need assistance choosing the best health insurance plans for piles injection treatment, contact Star Health. Our 24/7 customer service team is always there to listen to your queries and provide guidance. 

Get in touch with us today!