Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy Offers Faster Recovery With Less Pain
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat certain types of hemorrhoids, particularly advanced internal hemorrhoids associated with prolapse. Compared to traditional hemorrhoid surgery, this technique aims to reduce postoperative pain while shortening recovery time. Understanding how it works, who it is best suited for, and how it compares to other treatments can help patients make informed decisions alongside their healthcare providers.
As one of several options within the broader spectrum of hemorrhoids treatment approaches, stapled hemorrhoidopexy has become increasingly common in surgical practice for selected cases.
What Is Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy?
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy, sometimes called Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids (PPH), is a surgical technique that repositions prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue back into the anal canal. Instead of removing hemorrhoids directly, the surgeon uses a circular stapling device to excise a ring of excess tissue above the hemorrhoids and staple the remaining tissue into place.
By lifting the hemorrhoids back to their normal position and reducing blood flow to them, the procedure typically causes the hemorrhoids to shrink and symptoms to improve over time.
How It Differs from Traditional Hemorrhoidectomy
Unlike a conventional hemorrhoidectomy, which removes hemorrhoidal tissue entirely, stapled hemorrhoidopexy avoids incisions in the sensitive anoderm. This difference is the key reason patients often experience less postoperative pain compared to excisional surgery such as hemorrhoidectomy.
Who Is a Candidate for Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy?
This procedure is generally recommended for people with moderate to severe internal hemorrhoids, especially those classified as prolapsed hemorrhoids. It is most commonly performed for grade 3 and some grade 4 internal hemorrhoids that protrude during bowel movements and may require manual reduction.
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is usually not recommended for:
- Primarily external hemorrhoids
- Thrombosed hemorrhoids with significant external components
- Patients with certain anorectal infections or inflammatory conditions
A colorectal surgeon will perform a thorough evaluation, often including a physical examination and symptom review, to determine whether this option is appropriate based on the individual’s condition.
The Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy Procedure Explained
The surgery is typically performed under regional or general anesthesia and usually takes less than an hour. The stapling device is inserted into the anal canal, where it removes a ring of excess tissue above the hemorrhoids. This action simultaneously lifts the prolapsed tissue and interrupts excess blood supply.
Because the staples are placed higher in the rectum, an area with fewer pain-sensitive nerve endings, patients often report significantly less postoperative discomfort.
Hospital Stay and Recovery Time
Most patients can go home the same day or within 24 hours. Normal daily activities can usually be resumed sooner than with traditional surgery, although complete healing still takes several weeks.
During recovery, doctors often recommend:
- High-fiber diet to ensure soft stools
- Adequate hydration
- Avoiding prolonged straining
These measures align closely with long-term strategies found in high-fiber diet guidance for hemorrhoid prevention.
Benefits of Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy
One of the main advantages of stapled hemorrhoidopexy is reduced postoperative pain. Because there are fewer wounds in sensitive areas, patients often need less pain medication and experience a faster return to daily routines.
Other potential benefits include:
- Shorter operating time
- Reduced hospital stay
- Quicker recovery compared to excisional surgery
These benefits make it appealing for patients who want effective treatment with less disruption to work and daily life.
Risks and Possible Complications
Although generally safe, stapled hemorrhoidopexy does carry risks. Some patients may experience bleeding, urgency, or discomfort during bowel movements in the early recovery phase.
Less common but more serious complications include:
- Recurrence of hemorrhoids
- Staple line bleeding
- Infection or abscess formation
Long-term recurrence rates may be slightly higher than traditional hemorrhoidectomy, which is why careful patient selection is important. Discussing risks in advance allows patients to weigh this procedure against alternatives such as rubber band ligation for less advanced cases.
Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy vs Other Treatment Options
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy sits between minimally invasive procedures and more aggressive surgical options. It is typically more effective than office-based techniques for prolapsed hemorrhoids, but less invasive than full surgical removal.
For example, rubber band ligation may be suitable for mild to moderate internal hemorrhoids, while stapled hemorrhoidopexy is usually reserved for more advanced prolapse. In contrast, traditional hemorrhoidectomy remains the gold standard for severe or complicated cases but involves longer recovery.
The choice depends on symptom severity, hemorrhoid type, and the patient’s overall health.
Long-Term Outcomes and Lifestyle Support
Most patients notice significant symptom improvement after stapled hemorrhoidopexy, including reduced prolapse and discomfort. However, maintaining healthy bowel habits is essential to prevent recurrence.
Lifestyle adjustments—such as increasing dietary fiber, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting—are key components of long-term success. Reliable medical sources like the Mayo Clinic emphasize these measures as part of comprehensive hemorrhoid care.
When to Talk to a Doctor
Patients experiencing persistent pain, bleeding, or prolapse should seek medical evaluation. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy may be an excellent option for those with appropriate indications, but it is not suitable for every case.
A qualified specialist can provide guidance by comparing this method with other treatments and tailoring the approach to individual needs.
As part of a structured hemorrhoid care plan that includes complete hemorrhoids overview resources and personalized medical advice, stapled hemorrhoidopexy remains a valuable tool in modern colorectal surgery.