How to Treat Hemorrhoids with Radiofrequency?

Treating Hemorrhoids with Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency treatment for hemorrhoids involves heating the hemorrhoidal arteries using a small probe inserted under the mucosa of the lower rectum. 

How to Treat Hemorrhoids with Radiofrequency?

Radiofrequency treatment for hemorrhoids involves heating the hemorrhoidal arteries using a small probe inserted under the mucosa of the lower rectum.

How to Treat Hemorrhoids with Radiofrequency?

This low-pressure radiofrequency current, similar to microwaves, heats the hemorrhoidal arteries to reduce symptoms. 

Who Is This Treatment For?

Radiofrequency treatment is designed for patients with prolapsed or bleeding hemorrhoids that have not responded to conventional instrumental treatments. However, it is not suitable for external hemorrhoids.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The procedure is relatively short and is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. A small probe is inserted under the mucosa of the lower rectum, in contact with the hemorrhoidal artery. 

This technique is available in specialized centers as an alternative to conventional hemorrhoidectomy surgeries, such as the well-known Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy, Doppler-guided ligation, or laser surgical treatment. 

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How Effective Is This Treatment?

Since this is a relatively new technique, long-term studies are still lacking. However, initial short- and medium-term results are very promising. Patients experience significantly less pain compared to traditional hemorrhoidectomy procedures.

Is Recovery Easier Compared to Traditional Surgery?

Yes, recovery is much simpler because there are no surgical wounds, leading to significantly less post-operative pain. 

What Are the Possible Complications?

As with any medical procedure, there are potential complications. These include:

• Risks associated with anesthesia.
• Temporary urinary difficulties, especially in patients with a history of prostate issues.
• Bleeding, which can be worsened by anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications.
• Pain, though generally well managed with simple painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency surgical treatment for hemorrhoids is an innovative technique with encouraging short- and medium-term results. 

While long-term studies are still awaited, this procedure offers a simple, repeatable option with less pain and easier recovery. 

In cases where it does not work, patients can still opt for proven conventional surgical treatments. 

References

1. Eddama, M.M.R., Everson, M., Renshaw, S., Taj, T., Boulton, R., Crosbie, J., & Cohen, C.R. (2019). Radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of haemorrhoidal disease: a minimally invasive and effective treatment modality. *Techniques in Coloproctology*, 24, 1017–1023.
2. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2017). Radiofrequency treatment for haemorrhoids. *Interventional procedures guidance [IPG589]*.
3. F Care Systems. Treating haemorrhoids with radiofrequency energy.
4. Dr. Naseem Mirbagheri. (2019). Radiofrequency Ablation for Haemorrhoids – A Minimally-Invasive Treatment Option.
5. Wikipedia contributors. (2025, February 10). Hemorrhoid. In *Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia*. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemorrhoid