
The laser proctology service treats conditions of the anal region including piles (hemorrhoids), fissures, and fistulas. Laser techniques can offer a less invasive alternative to conventional surgery for suitable patients, with generally shorter recovery times.
About the laser proctology department
Laser proctology focuses on common conditions of the anal region, such as piles (hemorrhoids), fissures, fistulae and related problems. For suitable patients, laser techniques can offer a less invasive alternative to conventional surgery, often with shorter recovery times.
The right treatment depends on the diagnosis, and not every condition is treated with laser techniques. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and explain which approach is most appropriate.
Anorectal conditions are very common but often cause embarrassment, which can lead to delays in seeking help. A prompt assessment can provide relief and prevent problems from becoming more difficult to treat.
Common reasons patients seek care
Patients are commonly referred to laser proctology for assessment of concerns that may include:
- Rectal bleeding, whether bright red or noticed on wiping
- Pain during or after bowel movements
- Anal pain that is persistent or recurrent
- Itching around the anus (pruritus ani)
- Swelling or a lump around the anus
- A lump that protrudes during bowel movements (prolapsed hemorrhoids)
- Difficulty passing stool or a feeling of incomplete emptying
- Recurrent constipation associated with anorectal symptoms
- Discharge or wetness around the anus
- Persistent anorectal discomfort that is not settling with simple measures
Common conditions
The laser proctology specialty commonly involves the assessment of conditions that may include:
- Hemorrhoids (piles), including internal and external hemorrhoids
- Anal fissure (a tear in the lining of the anal canal)
- Anal fistula (an abnormal connection between the anal canal and the skin)
- Perianal abscess
- Rectal bleeding requiring investigation
- Prolapsed hemorrhoids
- Skin tags around the anus
- Pilonidal disease where it falls within proctological care
- Other anorectal conditions requiring specialist assessment
Treatments and procedures
Treatment options depend on your individual condition. Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may discuss approaches that can include:
- Assessment and examination of anorectal symptoms
- Conservative management including dietary advice, fibre supplementation and bowel habit guidance
- Medication for pain, inflammation and healing
- Rubber band ligation for suitable internal hemorrhoids
- Injection treatment (sclerotherapy) for selected hemorrhoids
- Laser treatment for suitable patients, offering a less invasive approach for certain conditions
- Surgical management of fissures, fistulae and hemorrhoids where other treatments are not appropriate
- Abscess incision and drainage
Procedures
Depending on the diagnosis, procedures in laser proctology may include:
- Proctoscopy and examination under local or general anaesthesia
- Rubber band ligation of hemorrhoids
- Injection sclerotherapy for hemorrhoids
- Laser hemorrhoidoplasty for suitable patients
- Fissure treatment, including lateral internal sphincterotomy where indicated
- Fistula procedures, including fistulotomy and fistula plug placement
- Abscess drainage
- Hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal of hemorrhoids) where conservative options are not suitable
When to seek specialist care
Patients may seek assessment for anal pain, bleeding, a lump, itching or ongoing discomfort. These symptoms have several possible causes, and it is important not to assume the diagnosis. Your doctor will examine you and explain the diagnosis before recommending treatment. Rectal bleeding should always be assessed to rule out other causes.
What patients can expect
After assessing your symptoms, the doctor explains the likely cause and the treatment options. Whether laser, conventional surgery or another approach is used depends on the specific condition, its severity and your individual circumstances. Treatment is planned to relieve symptoms and reduce the chance of the problem returning.
Booking a consultation
You can request an appointment with the Laser Proctology team using the appointment form, or by calling the hospital on 0300 9687763. If you have previous imaging or reports, please bring them to your appointment.
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