Do You Need to Stay in the Hospital for Hemorrhoid Surgery?

Is hospitalization necessary for hemorrhoid surgery?

Hello Dr.
Chang, I am considering surgery to remove my hemorrhoids.
The cost of minimally invasive surgery is a bit too high for me, so I would prefer traditional surgery.
I found online that traditional surgery usually requires a hospital stay of 1 to 3 days, but I have seen many posts in online forums about people who had traditional surgery and went home to rest afterward.
For instance, one person mentioned they had general anesthesia, rested for half a day, and then went home after waking up.
Another person even mentioned they paid for a consultation, had the procedure done under local anesthesia, and were out in just ten minutes.
They all confirmed it was indeed "traditional surgery" and not rubber band ligation.

I would like to know if the decision to stay in the hospital after hemorrhoid surgery is something I can discuss with my doctor, or if it depends on the severity of the condition.
I have mixed hemorrhoids that do not cause pain, only a feeling of discomfort.
Is it possible for me to avoid hospitalization?

Mengji, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/18

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

Even traditional surgery does not necessarily require hospitalization.
Simple hemorrhoids can even be treated with local anesthesia.
However, if the hemorrhoids are larger, prone to bleeding, or if there are multiple hemorrhoids, hospitalization is recommended.
The benefits of hospitalization include a wider selection of anesthesia options, better pain management, close postoperative monitoring in severe cases, and overall greater comfort.
You can discuss with your attending physician whether hospitalization for surgery is necessary.

Reply Date: 2023/01/18

More Info

When considering whether hospitalization is necessary after hemorrhoid surgery, it is essential to understand the various factors that influence this decision. Hemorrhoid surgery, particularly traditional excisional surgery, typically requires a short hospital stay, usually ranging from 1 to 3 days. However, the actual need for hospitalization can vary based on individual circumstances, the type of anesthesia used, and the specific surgical technique employed.

In traditional hemorrhoid surgery, the procedure involves the removal of hemorrhoids, which can be performed under general or local anesthesia. Patients who undergo general anesthesia may need to stay in the hospital longer due to the effects of the anesthesia and the need for monitoring post-surgery. On the other hand, those who receive local anesthesia might be able to go home sooner, especially if they are stable and not experiencing significant pain or complications.

Your observation about patients leaving the hospital shortly after surgery is not uncommon. Many patients do return home the same day, particularly if they have undergone a less invasive procedure or if their overall health is good. However, it is crucial to consider that each patient's situation is unique. Factors such as the severity of the hemorrhoids, the presence of any complications, and the patient's overall health status play a significant role in determining the need for hospitalization.

In your case, since you mentioned that your hemorrhoids are mixed and do not cause pain but only discomfort, it is possible that you could discuss with your surgeon the option of outpatient surgery. If your surgeon assesses that your condition is stable and you have a good support system at home, they may agree to allow you to go home the same day. However, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your specific situation, including any potential risks associated with outpatient surgery.

Post-operative care is also a critical aspect to consider. Even if you are allowed to go home the same day, you will need to follow specific care instructions to ensure proper healing and to manage any discomfort. This may include pain management, dietary adjustments, and monitoring for any signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding or infection.

In conclusion, whether you need to stay in the hospital after hemorrhoid surgery is a decision that should be made collaboratively with your surgeon. It is essential to communicate openly about your concerns, the type of surgery you are considering, and your overall health. Your surgeon will provide guidance based on their clinical judgment and your individual circumstances. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure a safe and effective recovery while minimizing any unnecessary hospital stays.

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