Preparing for surgery can be quite scary, especially when facing the discomfort and uncertainty that often accompany a condition like piles, or haemorrhoids.
However, being well-prepared can ease any anxiety you might have and pave the way for a smooth and successful recovery. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing for a haemorrhoidectomy, from pre-surgery preparations to post-surgery care, so you feel informed and confident at every step.
What to prepare before piles surgery
Being well-prepared ensures you are ready physically and mentally for a surgical procedure. Here’s what you need to do before haemorrhoidectomy, or piles surgery.
Pre-surgery tests
Before your surgery, you may undergo several tests to check your fitness for the procedure. Common pre-surgery tests are:
- Blood tests: Blood tests are performed to check for underlying conditions that might affect the surgery.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): To assess your heart’s health, especially if you have a history of heart problems.
- Imaging tests: A colonoscopy or rectal ultrasound, which provides a detailed view of the piles and surrounding tissues.
These tests help your surgical team understand your overall health and tailor the procedure to your needs.
Doctor appointment
A pre-surgery appointment with your doctor is a key step in preparation. During this appointment, your doctor will explain the procedure, detailing what will happen before, during, and after the surgery. They will review your medical history to check for any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you take.
This appointment also allows you to ask questions or express concerns about the surgery or recovery process. Additionally, your doctor will provide detailed preoperative and post-operative care instructions.
Emptying and fasting
Emptying of the colon may be necessary before your piles surgery. This is usually done by taking a laxative or enema.
For the colon to remain empty, you must also fast before the procedure. An empty stomach before surgery can reduce the risk of complications such as aspiration (inhaling stomach contents into the lungs). Your doctor will provide guidelines on when to stop eating and drinking. Generally, you will be asked to:
- Stop eating solid foods at least 6 hours before the surgery.
- Stop drinking clear liquids 2 hours before the procedure.
What to bring
When heading to the hospital or surgical centre, having the right items can make your experience more comfortable. The following is a checklist of essential items to bring:
- Identification and insurance cards: Ensure you have your ID and any necessary insurance information.
- Comfortable clothing: Loose, comfortable clothing will be easier to wear post-surgery.
- Personal hygiene items: Basic toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a hairbrush.
- Medications: Bring any medications you are taking and a list detailing their names and dosages.
- Books or entertainment: Items to keep you occupied while you recover, such as books, magazines, or electronic devices with headphones.
The Procedure
Piles surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The surgery is carried out to remove the swollen veins in your rectum or anus. Here’s a brief overview of what happens during the surgery:
- Anaesthesia administration: You will receive anaesthesia to ensure you do not feel pain during the procedure.
- Surgical removal: The surgeon will make small incisions around the haemorrhoid tissue and remove the swollen veins.
- Closure: Depending on the specific technique, the incisions may be closed with sutures or left open to heal naturally.
- Recovery room: After the procedure, you will be placed in a recovery room for monitoring as you wake up from the anaesthesia.
Post-Surgery Care
Recovery Period
After removing the haemorrhoids, your anal area may be painful for 2 to 4 weeks, and you may need pain medication to manage this discomfort. These are some of the steps you would need to practise.
- Rest: Get ample rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Pain management: Your doctor will prescribe pain relievers to help manage post-surgery discomfort.
- Hygiene: Keep the operation site clean and dry. Your doctor may recommend sitz baths (sitting in warm water) to soothe the area and promote healing.
- Follow instructions: Adhere strictly to any post-operative instructions your healthcare team provides.
You should be able to resume most of your normal activities within one to two weeks.
Dietary Restrictions
A high-fibre diet prevents constipation and ensures smooth bowel movements and recovery. It should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Drinking at two litres of water daily will keep you hydrated and help soften your stools.
Follow-Up Procedures
Follow-up appointments with your surgeon are meant to monitor your healing process and address concerns. Your doctor will check the surgical site to ensure it is healing properly.
Follow-up appointments are also an opportunity for you to inform your doctor about any pain, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms so he may check on them.
Piles Surgery in Singapore
By following this guide and partnering with a trusted medical team, you can approach your piles surgery confidently and focus on a smooth recovery.
At Ark Surgical Practice, we understand the physical and emotional challenges associated with piles and surgery. Our experienced surgeons and healthcare professionals in Singapore are dedicated to providing care before, during, and after your piles surgery. Contact us to learn more about piles surgery.
