“Piles” is the common term for haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids are common in the general population although their symptoms vary widely. Symptoms may include minor intermittent bleeding, discomfort and a feeling of incomplete evacuation (tenesmus); external piles many be troublesome by their very presence and cause difficulty with anal cleanliness. More extensive piles may ‘prolapse’ and come outside the anus.
The Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO) is a new operation designed to eradicate piles without the need for cutting and is therefore a less painful procedure with many patients returning home within 24 hours.
Mr Jonathan Gilbert, Consultant in Colorectal and General Surgery.
For most people with haemorrhoids, the condition is mild and can be treated with over the counter (OTC) medicines that tackle the symptoms, usually in the form of ointments or suppositories. However patients with persistent symptoms who require surgery can now be offered a minimally invasive approach which requires no cutting or excision of skin tissue or muscle.
The Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO) has revolutionised the treatment of haemorrhoids. The use of Doppler ultrasound enables accurate identification and tying off of the blood supply to the haemorrhoids allowing them to shrivel up. Further internal stitches help prevent piles from protruding. By avoiding painful cuts on the outside recovery is dramatically improved with a very low risk of any complications. The procedure is performed as a day case and can be carried out under sedation as well as general anaesthesia.
Mr Jonathan Gilbert is an experienced consultant at Spire Thames Valley Hospital and provides the HALO technique. "The Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO) is a new operation designed to eradicate piles without the need for cutting and is therefore a less painful procedure with many patients returning home within 24 hours." Mr Jonathan Gilbert, Consultant in Colorectal and General Surgery.
Click here for further information on haemorrhoid treatments, or to arrange your initial consultation call our enquiry line on 01753 665 404 or complete our online enquiry form.