Is Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids Effective and Safe?

Laser treatment for hemorrhoids?

Hello, doctor! I recently saw on a clinic's website that they offer laser treatment for hemorrhoids, claiming it can be done without hospitalization, allows for normal work afterward, requires no anesthesia, and results in no bleeding.
They state that the treatment can be completed instantly with the laser, providing a complete cure with no side effects.
The principle of laser treatment is to directly block the hemorrhoidal venous plexus with laser light, which supposedly does not cause bleeding or create any wounds.
Is this possible? Or is it only suitable for those with milder symptoms?

Eric, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/28

Dr. Lin Hongmao reply Surgery

Dear friend,
I have no experience with laser treatment for hemorrhoids, so I searched online and found comprehensive information provided by a physician on this issue.
I am quoting it for your reference:
"Laser Surgery for Hemorrhoids? It's Already Outdated! Hsinchu Hospital of the Department of Health Offers More Advanced Treatment Methods" by Deputy Director Chung Yuan-Chiang (February 17, 2003).
Hemorrhoids are an abnormal proliferation and dilation of the anal venous plexus, which can cause the sliding and prolapse of the anal mucosa, often resulting in significant bleeding when passing hard stools.
Deputy Director Chung mentioned that approximately 10,000 patients visit the colorectal surgery department at Hsinchu Hospital each year due to hemorrhoid symptoms, with around 350 of those requiring surgery.
A common question among patients during outpatient visits is whether laser surgery can be used.
Deputy Director Chung stated that, in fact, laser surgery for hemorrhoids was popular about 15 years ago, but currently, no qualified colorectal surgeons use laser treatment for hemorrhoids.
Moreover, Western medical textbooks explicitly advise against using laser treatment for hemorrhoids, as the depth of cutting and coagulation achieved by lasers is only about 0.4 cm.
While this is sufficient for treating facial blemishes or corneal issues, most hemorrhoids requiring surgery have a thickness of over 1 cm.
Using a laser in such cases can lead to excessive bleeding, poor coagulation, and inadequate wound healing.
Therefore, colorectal surgeons abandoned this treatment method a decade ago.
Furthermore, if the hemorrhoid thickness is only 0.4 cm, outpatient ligation treatment would suffice, eliminating the need for anesthesia and laser treatment.
However, medical advancements continue, and there are now other surgical methods available.
For simple internal hemorrhoids, a hemorrhoidal circular stapler can be used for a painless hemorrhoidectomy, as the excision occurs in areas devoid of pain sensation at the anal and rectal junction.
Consequently, patients experience minimal pain post-surgery and have a notably quick recovery, often returning to work within two to three days.
The results are impressive, with minimal issues related to wound pain.
For common internal hemorrhoids that are accompanied by external hemorrhoids, the circular stapler technique is not suitable, and traditional surgical methods must be employed.
Additionally, a "tissue coagulation device" can be used for hemorrhoidectomy, which functions by excising tissue and achieving hemostasis through the principle of protein denaturation.
Since 2001, this device has been utilized in Europe and the United States for hemorrhoid removal, offering benefits such as shorter surgical time, reduced blood loss, and decreased postoperative pain (compared to traditional hemorrhoidectomy, pain is significantly lower in the first two days post-surgery when using the tissue coagulation device).
In reality, hemorrhoids are a benign condition, but neglecting medical advice can lead to considerable discomfort.
All treatment options depend on the type and severity of the hemorrhoids.
I recommend consulting a colorectal specialist to discuss appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.
Thank you for your question!
Sincerely,
Lin Hong-Mao

Reply Date: 2005/03/28

More Info

Laser treatment for hemorrhoids has gained popularity in recent years due to its minimally invasive nature and the promise of quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgical methods. However, it is essential to evaluate both the effectiveness and safety of this treatment option.

Effectiveness of Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids
Laser treatment for hemorrhoids typically involves the use of focused light energy to coagulate the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoids, effectively shrinking them. This method is often touted for its ability to minimize pain and recovery time. Studies have shown that laser treatment can be effective for treating hemorrhoids, particularly in cases of grade I and II hemorrhoids, which are less severe. For these grades, patients often report significant relief from symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and discomfort.

However, for more severe cases (grade III and IV hemorrhoids), traditional surgical options like hemorrhoidectomy may still be necessary. Laser treatment may not completely eliminate the hemorrhoids in these cases and could lead to recurrence. Therefore, while laser treatment can be effective, its suitability largely depends on the severity of the hemorrhoids.

Safety of Laser Treatment
One of the main advantages of laser treatment is its safety profile. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day without the need for hospitalization. Many clinics claim that the procedure is painless and does not require general anesthesia, which is appealing to many patients.

However, it is crucial to note that while laser treatment is associated with less bleeding and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery, it is not entirely without risks. Potential side effects may include:
1. Pain and Discomfort: Some patients may still experience pain post-procedure, although it is generally less than that associated with traditional surgery.

2. Infection: As with any medical procedure, there is a risk of infection, albeit low.

3. Recurrence: There is a possibility that hemorrhoids may recur after laser treatment, especially if the underlying causes (such as chronic constipation or straining) are not addressed.

4. Skin Burns: If not performed correctly, laser treatment can cause burns to the surrounding tissue.

Conclusion
In summary, laser treatment for hemorrhoids can be an effective and safe option for patients with mild to moderate symptoms. It offers a less invasive alternative with a quicker recovery time, making it appealing for those looking to avoid traditional surgery. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of the hemorrhoids and individual health conditions.

Patients should also be cautious of clinics that make overly optimistic claims, such as "complete cure" or "no side effects." It is vital to have a thorough discussion with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the best treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific needs.

Similar Q&A

Effectiveness and Side Effects of Laser Treatment for Stage III Hemorrhoids

In the case of third-degree hemorrhoids, what is the effectiveness of laser treatment, and are there any side effects?

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Hello: In response to your question, laser treatment and surgical treatment are essentially the same, with the laser replacing the scalpel. Generally speaking, surgical treatment is effective and does not have any side effects.

Laser Surgery for Hemorrhoids: Is 60-Minute Treatment Effective?

Hello Dr. Ke, 1. I am a hemorrhoid patient, likely in the third stage, where I need to push the stool back in. I often see some clinics claiming that a 60-minute laser surgery can cure it. Is it really that miraculous? 2. Given my condition, do I need surgery? Can it improve wi...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. It is essential to clarify which type of equipment is used for the 1.60 diopter laser surgery. Without understanding what specific equipment the clinic employs, I cannot assess whether it is truly effective. However, it is important to note that surgery will inevitably involve...

Understanding the Truth About Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Hello, doctor! I saw in your responses to other patients that you mentioned, "Surgery is usually the fundamental treatment method. Laser surgery does not significantly reduce pain." However, I found information on a website stating that laser treatment does not require ...

Dr. Wang Qichao reply Surgery
Hello: There are many surgical methods for treating hemorrhoids, and laser surgery is one option. However, from the patient's perspective, the cost of surgery increases, and the pain remains the same (it is not possible to be pain-free, unless only internal hemorrhoids are t...

Can Laser Treatment Effectively Address Anal Fistulas?

Can anal fistulas be treated with laser therapy? If laser treatment is used, will there be any side effects?

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery
Basically, lasers are surgical tools, specifically for cutting or coagulating, and there is nothing particularly special or different about laser surgery. From my understanding, there is no inherent issue with using laser surgery; however, many hospitals believe that it simply in...