Epidural anesthesia in the treatment of haemorrhoids

In order to perform surgical treatment of haemorrhoids, it is important to relieve the person of pain. Haemorrhoidal nodes and all the tissues surrounding them are very sensitive areas – therefore, one of the most common symptoms of haemorrhoids is intense pain. Epidural anesthesia in the treatment of haemorrhoids has many advantages compared to other pain relief methods.

How is epidural anesthesia performed?

1. It is necessary to bare the back and bend over – sitting or lying on your side. This position combines the most comfortable conditions for the patient and convenience for the anesthesiologist when performing the procedure. It is important to stay in one position briefly: sudden movements at subsequent stages can lead to complications.
2. Disinfection of the puncture area with an antiseptic. This is done to prevent infection at the puncture site.
3. Local anesthesia of the area that will be punctured. Lidocaine is most often used for this purpose. The doctor talks with the patient in advance to find out about any possible allergies or drug intolerances.
4. Next, the anesthesiologist punctures the epidural space with a special needle, into which a catheter is placed. A solution of anesthetic can be administered through the catheter for an extended period. The active substance affects the nerve fibers, blocking them, so the person does not feel pain. And the presence of the catheter allows pain relief even in the postoperative period. It is also possible to achieve stable muscle relaxation.
5. End of the procedure. After epidural anesthesia, it is recommended to observe bed rest for several hours.

Advantages of Epidural Anesthesia

Undeniable advantages of epidural anesthesia:

1. The patient remains conscious during the operation. The brain does not suffer from hypoxia, there is no need for artificial lung ventilation, etc. After the operation, the patient can immediately go to a regular ward under the supervision of a doctor.
2. No general negative effects on the body. Epidural anesthesia is allowed for people with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some other chronic conditions.
3. The possibility of prolonged pain relief. In haemorrhoid surgery, this is especially important, as the surgical area is highly sensitive and patients with a low pain threshold often need painkillers.
4. No irritation of the respiratory tract, which often occurs with general anesthesia. Therefore, epidural anesthesia is preferable for people with bronchial asthma.

In modern medicine, epidural anesthesia is considered the most effective method of pain relief. When performed by a competent anesthesiologist, the procedure is quite safe and easily tolerated without any health consequences. You can schedule a consultation with a specialist and ask all questions about your health so that all doubts and fears are completely dispelled.