Postoperative Issues After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Hello, Doctor.
I underwent minimally invasive hemorrhoid surgery at a private clinic on April 9th, and afterward, I developed a hematoma.
I had another surgery on April 17th to remove the hematoma.
Since then, I have experienced persistent localized pain on the right side of the anal canal.
This continued until early June when one morning, after pressing on my buttocks, pus suddenly discharged from my anus.
I immediately returned to the clinic for an examination.
In mid-June, the doctor performed another surgery, draining about 2cc of pus from the painful area inside the anus, and made an external incision about 3 to 4 centimeters long and 1 centimeter deep to allow for proper drainage of the pus.
Currently, I do not experience pain during bowel movements, but I am confused as to why a hemorrhoid surgery has led to such prolonged issues and complications.
Is there a possibility that my condition could develop into a fistula? Thank you.
Huang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/05
Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The so-called minimally invasive surgery for hemorrhoids actually involves various techniques and instruments.
Please describe the specific method used clearly; otherwise, it will be difficult to identify the issue.
Based on your description, it seems that a postoperative wound infection has occurred, leading to a subsequent anal abscess.
There is indeed a possibility of developing anal fistula as a complication in the future.
Reply Date: 2019/07/05
More Info
After undergoing hemorrhoid surgery, it is not uncommon to experience complications such as pain and abscess formation. Your situation, involving multiple surgeries and persistent pain, raises several important points regarding post-operative care and potential complications.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that hemorrhoid surgery, while generally safe, can lead to complications like hematomas (blood clots), infections, and abscesses. The formation of a hematoma after your initial surgery indicates that there was bleeding in the surgical area, which can occur due to various reasons, including inadequate hemostasis during the procedure or increased pressure in the area post-surgery. The subsequent surgery to drain the hematoma was a necessary step to alleviate pressure and prevent further complications.
The ongoing pain you experienced, particularly localized to one side of the anal area, suggests that there may have been an infection or inflammation in that region. The fact that pus was discharged indicates the presence of an abscess, which is a collection of pus that can form when bacteria infect the tissue. The surgical intervention to drain the abscess was appropriate, as it helps to relieve pain and prevent the infection from spreading.
Regarding your concern about the possibility of developing a fistula (廔管), it is a valid consideration. Fistulas can occur when an abscess does not heal properly and creates a channel between the anal canal and the skin. Symptoms of a fistula may include persistent drainage, pain, and discomfort in the anal area. If you notice any ongoing discharge or pain, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
In terms of why your recovery has been prolonged and complicated, several factors could contribute to this. Individual healing responses vary, and factors such as underlying health conditions, the extent of the surgery, and post-operative care can all influence recovery. Additionally, if there was any delay in addressing the hematoma or abscess, it could have led to more significant complications.
To manage your pain and prevent further issues, it is essential to maintain good hygiene in the anal area, follow your doctor's post-operative care instructions, and attend all follow-up appointments. If you experience any new symptoms, such as increased pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits, you should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while complications following hemorrhoid surgery can be distressing, they are not uncommon. Your situation highlights the importance of monitoring for signs of infection and being proactive in seeking treatment for any complications that arise. If you have concerns about the possibility of a fistula or any other issues, discussing these with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you receive appropriate care and guidance moving forward.
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