Post-Surgery Care for Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids: Healing Tips and Medication

Postoperative medication and recovery for thrombosed external hemorrhoids?

Hello Dr.
Ke,
A few days ago, when I visited the hospital for a consultation, the doctor unexpectedly recommended that I immediately undergo surgery to remove my acute thrombosed external hemorrhoid, which I thought had healed after six months.
To my surprise, after the removal, there was still a blood clot the size of a small egg.
The doctor did not prescribe any medication or provide further instructions; they only gave me an educational pamphlet and advised me to buy gauze to manage the bleeding at home.

In the days following the surgery, I have experienced intermittent bleeding and drainage of serous fluid.
I have been taking daily sitz baths with saltwater.
I am wondering if I should purchase some over-the-counter ointment to help speed up the healing of the wound, as there is an unpleasant odor, or if I need to return for a follow-up appointment.

Since there is very little discussion on this topic, I am reaching out to seek your advice.
How long might this situation continue? I find it quite bothersome, especially since I have to sit for long periods at work.
Thank you, doctor.

Lao Hu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/23

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

It is not recommended to apply ointment immediately after thrombectomy to avoid hindering the drainage of bruising and tissue fluid.
Now that a few days have passed, it should be acceptable to use topical ointments.
Generally, the wound from a thrombectomy heals in about a week.
During this period, it is still advisable to avoid prolonged sitting and to engage in more activities, which should be fine.

Reply Date: 2019/05/23

More Info

Post-surgery care for thrombosed external hemorrhoids is crucial for ensuring proper healing and minimizing discomfort. After undergoing a surgical procedure for thrombosed hemorrhoids, it is common to experience some bleeding and discharge for several days. Here are some comprehensive care tips and recommendations based on your situation:

1. Wound Care and Hygiene
- Keep the Area Clean: It's essential to maintain proper hygiene to prevent infection. After bowel movements, gently clean the area with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area too vigorously.

- Sitz Baths: Continue your routine of taking warm sitz baths, ideally for 15-20 minutes, several times a day, especially after bowel movements. This can help soothe the area, reduce swelling, and promote healing.

- Dressing Changes: If your doctor advised you to use gauze, change it regularly to keep the area dry and clean. If you notice excessive bleeding or discharge, consider using a clean dressing to absorb any fluid.

2. Managing Discomfort
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and discomfort. However, always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have other health conditions or are on other medications.

- Topical Treatments: While your doctor did not prescribe any ointments, you may consider using over-the-counter topical treatments specifically designed for hemorrhoid relief. These may contain ingredients like witch hazel or hydrocortisone, which can reduce inflammation and discomfort. However, avoid applying anything without consulting your healthcare provider first.

3. Monitoring Symptoms
- Watch for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or a foul odor coming from the wound. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your doctor promptly.

- Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal in the days following surgery, but if you experience heavy bleeding or if the bleeding does not subside, seek medical attention.

4. Diet and Bowel Movements
- Dietary Adjustments: To prevent straining during bowel movements, maintain a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also essential, so drink plenty of water.

- Stool Softeners: If you are experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, consider using over-the-counter stool softeners to ease the process.

5. Activity Level
- Rest and Avoid Strain: While it is important to stay active, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site. If your job requires prolonged sitting, take regular breaks to stand and walk around to promote circulation and reduce pressure on the area.

6. Follow-Up Care
- Return to the Doctor: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have concerns about your healing process, do not hesitate to return to your healthcare provider. They can assess your condition and provide further guidance or treatment if necessary.

7. Healing Timeline
- Duration of Symptoms: The healing process can vary from person to person. Generally, you may expect some discomfort and minor bleeding for about a week or two post-surgery. However, complete healing may take several weeks. Patience and proper care are key to a successful recovery.

In summary, while it is normal to experience some bleeding and discomfort after surgery for thrombosed external hemorrhoids, maintaining proper hygiene, monitoring your symptoms, and following a healthy diet can significantly aid in your recovery. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms do not improve, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Care for Acute Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids: What to Expect

The doctor performed an excision of an acute thrombosed external hemorrhoid in the outpatient clinic the day before yesterday. This morning, the patient felt a significant reduction in pain and experienced multiple urges to defecate. However, during bowel movements in a squatting...

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery
Hello: Please take a look at the colorectal department.

Post-Surgery Care and Pain Management for Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids

Hello Doctor, I underwent an outpatient procedure for a thrombosed external hemorrhoid yesterday (approximately the size of an almond, and the surgery was performed when there was no pain). After the blood clot was removed, the doctor also performed a procedure to ligate the exce...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Thrombosed external hemorrhoids can be effectively relieved through thrombectomy, which alleviates symptoms and accelerates recovery. However, ligation of external hemorrhoidal tags tends to be more uncomfortable, and it is less commonly performed by specialists due to the signif...

Understanding and Managing Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids After Surgery

Two weeks ago, I went to the hospital to treat an internal hemorrhoid (which was very painful this time). As a result, a week later, I noticed a fleshy lump outside the anus, skin-colored and about the size of a peanut, which is swollen and extremely painful, and cannot be pushed...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If the ligation of internal hemorrhoids is performed too superficially, it can lead to complications such as pain and swelling due to the proximity of the wound to external hemorrhoids. Currently, the best approach is to take warm sitz baths and wait for the wound to heal. If the...

Post-Thrombosed Hemorrhoid Surgery: Essential Care Tips and Concerns

Hello Dr. Ke, last Monday I went to a nearby hospital for an outpatient visit and was diagnosed with a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, which was immediately removed under anesthesia. For the next five days, I tried to drink plenty of water and eat more fruits and vegetables, but ...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. Indeed, straining during bowel movements can lead to thrombosed hemorrhoids. It is acceptable to purchase and take stool softeners, but care should be taken to avoid causing diarrhea. 2. Mild bleeding from the surgical site after the procedure is normal; a sitz bath with war...