What is a Hemorrhoidectomy?

Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgery used to remove hemorrhoids both inside and outside of the body. During this procedure, general anesthesia will be administered. A surgeon can use a scalpel, a cautery pencil or a laser. Incisions are made into the tissue around the hemorrhoid itself. The swollen vein within the hemorrhoid will then be tied off in order to prevent bleeding and the hemorrhoid removed. A surgical area can be sewn close and in some cases, simply left open (especially if on the outside of the body). Gauze is placed across the wound. Typically a hemorrhoidectomy is done outpatient where the patient will go home the same day. 

Another way to perform a hemorrhoidectomy is with a stapling device that removes tissue and then closes the wound. No incisions are made at all. This allows those who endure this type of surgery less recovery time and less pain after the surgery. Recovery usually takes around two to three weeks.