Laser Treatment for Piles: Procedure, Benefits & Recovery
Thanks to the enhancement of medical technology, surgical procedures have become less invasive, causing less pain and lowering recovery time and chances of complications. An excellent example in this regard is the laser treatment of piles. It is a highly recommended procedure for advanced cases and can provide relief from symptoms within a few days.
For individuals planning to opt for laser piles treatment, having a detailed overview of the procedure is crucial to make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Laser Treatment for Piles?
A concentrated laser beam is used in piles laser therapy to contract and seal the blood vessels feeding the haemorrhoid. Usually performed under local or general anaesthesia in a day facility, the surgery usually calls for little or no scarring.
Typically, this method is advised for:
- Grade 2 or 3 internal piles that bleed or prolapse
- External piles that are painful or thrombosed
- Cases where drugs or nonsurgical interventions have not responded
What is the Preoperative Preparation for Laser Piles Treatment?
Smooth surgery and recovery depend on good planning before laser piles surgery. The necessary steps consist of the following:
- Fasting: To avoid anesthesia-related side effects, fasting is advised for at least 8 to 12 hours before surgery.
- Bowel Preparation: Usually, patients are told to have bowel clearing with laxatives or enemas the day before surgery to guarantee the colon is empty.
- Medication Review: Inform your doctor of every supplement and medicine you're using. Some, including blood thinners, might have to be stopped to lower the bleeding risk during surgery.
- Personal Hygiene: Take a shower before you come to the hospital, but refrain from using creams, colognes, or shaving the surgical area personally.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Refrain at least 34 days before the operation from smoking and alcohol, as these can impair healing and anaesthesia.
What are the Steps of the Laser Piles Treatment Procedure?
The steps of the laser piles treatment procedure are as follows:
Step 1: In response to the patient's seriousness and choice, the individual is given general anaesthesia.
Step 2: The surgeon runs a laser probe into the haemorrhoid site through the anus.
Step 3: A laser beam severs the blood supply to the haemorrhoid tissue; therefore, the pile mass contracts.
Step 4: The beam seals the veins, thereby stopping infections and bleeding.
What is the Duration and Hospital Stay for Laser Piles Treatment?
Usually, it takes around 30 minutes to successfully complete a laser operation. Unless complexity arises, most people are sent home the same day. It is, therefore, a good choice for seniors and working employees.
What is the Postoperative Care and Recovery Process for Laser Piles Treatment?
The postoperative care and recovery process for laser pile treatment may include the following:
- Patients might experience mild pain or burning one to two days after the procedure.
- Doctors usually prescribe painkillers, stool softeners, and antibiotics.
- Patients should eat a high-fibre diet, maintain good hygiene, and avoid straining the anal area.
- Most of the time, full recovery is seen within three to five days.
- During recovery, avoid lifting heavy objects or prolonged sitting.
What are the Benefits of Laser Treatment for Piles?
Laser piles treatment is highly preferred because:
- It is minimally invasive and less traumatic.
- Loss of blood is minimal.
- Recovery is quick.
- Stitches are not needed.
- Less postoperative pain and discomfort.
- Reduced chances of recurrence in comparison to traditional surgery.
What are the Risks and Side Effects of Laser Piles Treatment?
Although laser treatment for piles is usually very safe and requires minimal invasiveness, risks and side effects exist:
- Bleeding: Particularly during bowel movements and post-surgery, some bleeding is usual. However, excessive bleeding is uncommon and should be brought to the attention of a medical professional.
- Pain and Discomfort: Mild pain or discomfort in the treated area may occur, but it is usually controlled with prescribed drugs.
- Infection: Postoperative care instructions should be followed to avoid infections. Maintaining proper sanitation and adhering to the doctor's orders will help lower this risk.
- Tissue Fibrosis: In rare cases, laser therapy may result in tissue scarring that could create issues in future.
- Recurrence: Failure to follow the post-surgery lifestyle and dietary advice might result in a recurrence of haemorrhoids.
What is the Cost of Piles Treatment in India, and What Are the Factors Affecting It?
The cost of laser pile surgery in India usually varies from ₹43,500 to ₹91,800 based on factors like:
- The city and hospital.
- Type of laser technology used.
- Consultation charges.
- Diagnostic and preoperative tests.
- Room category if hospitalization is involved.
When to Consider Laser Surgery for Piles?
Choose laser piles treatment if:
- Painful piles cause regular bleeding or prolapse.
- Medication or natural treatments have not worked.
- Your work or lifestyle requires a rapid recovery.
- Thrombosed haemorrhoids or anal fissures are among the possible side effects you could have.
What is the Recovery Timeline for Laser Piles Treatment?
In the case of laser piles treatment, most patients:
- Start normal daily activities in two to three days.
- Heal completely within a week to two weeks.
However, they must follow dietary and lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrence.
What is the Role of Health Insurance in Piles Laser Treatment?
Patients are mostly concerned about whether their insurance covers laser surgery for piles. Many health plans now cover surgical treatment for haemorrhoids, including laser options, provided it is medically necessary. In this regard, Star Health offers several policies which provide coverage for piles treatment.
Here is a detailed overview:
- Covers inpatient care of haemorrhoid therapy.
- Daycare processes, including laser surgery.
- Calls for a minimum waiting time (usually 12-36 months, depending on the policy).
- Pre- and post-hospitalization costs are also covered.
You also get cashless treatment facilities in over 14,000 network hospitals, telemedicine services, home lab sample pickups and more.
Get in touch with us today for further details!
Also Read:
→ Best treatment creams for relieving piles
→ What Kind of Food Helps in Piles Treatment
→ What are the Effective Medicines for Treating Pile Symptoms
→ How to Treat Piles Without Surgery