Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment in Knoxville, TN
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in or around the anus and rectum that can cause itching, irritation, swelling, pain, or rectal bleeding. They are common in both men and women, with approximately half of adults experiencing hemorrhoids by age 50.
Although hemorrhoids are common, you do not have to live with ongoing discomfort. The Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center offers both surgical and non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment in Knoxville, TN, helping patients find an appropriate option based on their symptoms and the severity of their condition.
As one of the few dedicated hemorrhoid centers in the Southeast, Premier Surgical provides specialized care at three convenient Knoxville-area locations.
When Is Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Appropriate?
Patients with mild to moderate internal hemorrhoids may be candidates for infrared coagulation, also known as IRC. This minimally invasive office procedure uses short bursts of infrared light to treat the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoid. As the blood supply decreases, the hemorrhoid gradually shrinks and recedes.
IRC treatment typically takes approximately 15 minutes and requires no anesthesia, cutting, or stitches. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. A series of four treatments, generally scheduled three to four weeks apart, may be recommended for optimal results.
Benefits of non-surgical infrared coagulation include:
- Short office visits
- Little or no downtime
- No general anesthesia
- No surgical incisions
- Faster return to daily activities
IRC and other medically necessary hemorrhoid treatments are covered by many insurance plans, although coverage may vary.
When Is Hemorrhoid Surgery Needed?
Surgical hemorrhoid treatment may be recommended for large, recurring, prolapsed, thrombosed, or otherwise severe hemorrhoids. Surgery may also be appropriate when conservative care or office-based treatment has not provided sufficient relief.
Premier Surgical physicians offer several surgical options, including
- Excisional hemorrhoidectomy
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy
- Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization with mucopexy. (available at the Premier Fort Sanders location)
An excisional hemorrhoidectomy removes the affected hemorrhoidal tissue and may be recommended for advanced external or internal hemorrhoids. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy repositions prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue and reduces its blood supply. Your surgeon will explain the benefits, recovery expectations, and potential risks of each option before recommending treatment.
Which Hemorrhoid Treatment Is Right for You?
The best treatment depends on whether the hemorrhoid is internal or external, the severity of your symptoms, and whether complications are present. Because rectal bleeding can also be associated with other medical conditions, unexplained bleeding should always be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center offers evaluations and personalized treatment plans at three convenient locations: Premier Fort Sanders on Clinch Avenue, Premier North Knoxville on Conner Road in Powell, and Premier Parkwest on Park West Boulevard.
Request an appointment ONLINE or call our confidential HEMORRHOID HOTLINE at (865) 588-9952 today to learn whether surgical or non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment can help you achieve lasting relief and return to your normal activities with greater comfort.