Thrombosed hemorrhoids are hemorrhoids that develop a clot inside the swollen vein. They are often internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed out of the rectum and are quite painful. The only way to stop the pain is to remove the clot. Although there are some medical treatments for them, it is often necessary to have them surgically removed. Surgery ranges from a quick office procedure to a trip to the operating room.
If the clot is small and removable in the doctor’s office, you will receive local numbing medicine and within a few minutes the doctor can remove the clot. You will likely have instant relief from the terrible pain you have been experiencing. You may feel numb for a few hours in the rectal area. The recovery is simple and consists of keeping the area clean. A few doses of acetaminophen may be necessary if there is any residual discomfort, a sitz bath may give local relief as well as help keep the area clean.
Some surgical procedures are more complex and involved. These procedures require you to be in the hospital and go into the operating room. Typically, it is considered a day procedure and you will return home a few hours after the procedure to recover. Although you may not spend much time in the hospital, the recovery may take some time.
Recovery from thrombosed hemorrhoid surgery will depend on the extent of the hemorrhoids. If severe, you may need to be on prescribed pain medication. Although you don’t want to be in pain, don’t overdo it on the pain medications. It is important to understand that narcotic pain medication, such as Percocet or Vicodin, may lead to constipation. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen should be used if the pain is not severe as there is no risk of constipation with these medications. It is extremely important to take stool softeners, drink lots of fluids, and eat fruits and vegetables to counteract constipation.
If you do get constipated, keep in mind it may cause some pain to have a bowel movement, and you may see some bleeding. This is normal. After a bowel movement, you may also use a sitz bath. This will provide local warm water to your surgical site, assist with pain management and cleanse the area. Don’t use the sitz bath until the surgeon has cleared you to do so.
In addition to avoiding constipation and keeping the area clean and dry, it is also important to get some rest and not put too much pressure on the rectal area. Sitting or standing will put added pressure on the area, causing increased discomfort. Do not strain either.
Surgery for thrombosed hemorrhoids, although uncomfortable, may be the only option if you have exhausted other less invasive types of thrombosed hemorrhoid treatment. Plan on being out of work for some time; possibly 4-6 weeks. Eat well, drink lots of fluids and rest. This will help you heal and recover from your thrombosed hemorrhoid surgery.
