TREATMENTS
Hemorrhoid Banding
Banding is a painless that eliminates hemorrhoid symptoms with a low-risk in office procedure. A small device is placed that applies a gently suction, then releases a small rubber band on the base of the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid will shrink and fall off a few days later. Most patients have 3 enlarged internal hemorrhoids. In order to keep the risk of pain, bleeding and infection low, one hemorrhoid is banded per visit, typically about 2 weeks apart.
Trigger Point Injections
Pain around the anus or rectal opening is often due to chronic muscle spasm of the anal sphincter. When topical medications alone do not work to relieve the pain, then Trigger Point Injections will be offered. The involves injection of local anesthetic +/- a small dose of steroid to allow the muscle to release its spasm.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
The internal anal sphincter is part of the set of muscles known as the Pelvic Floor. Spasm of the internal anal sphincter is often the cause of anal fissures and pain around the anus. If medication and treatment of internal hemorrhoids does not suffice to alleviate the pain, then pelvic floor physical therapy may be recommended. We will recommend highly skilled specialized physical therapists who understand the pelvic muscles and their relationship to the anal sphincter.
Excision of Hemorrhoidal Tags
Areas of excess skin that has been stretched out by enlarged external hemorrhoids are known as Residual Hemorrhoidal Tags. Sometimes, these interfere with hygiene. Trapped acid from the bowel can lead to itching and pain. These tags can be removed in the office setting with local anesthesia or twilight sedation. Some recovery from vigorous physical activity will be required.
Topical Medication
Topical medication means medication that is directly applied to the part of the body that needs it, rather than taking a systemic medication, or one that is absorbed and runs through the bloodstream. Typically the first step in treating hemorrhoids and anal fissures is a topical medication that includes a muscle relaxer as well as pain medication.