Is hemorrhoid surgery performed under general anesthesia?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
If hemorrhoid surgery is a routine minor procedure, such as simple excision of external hemorrhoids or rubber band ligation of internal hemorrhoids, which typically takes a short time (usually 30 minutes to 1 hour), local or regional anesthesia is commonly used. The patient remains awake or lightly sedated during the procedure, recovers quickly afterward, and faces lower anesthesia-related risks. In such cases, general anesthesia is not required.

Generally, hemorrhoid surgery is performed under local or regional anesthesia, with general anesthesia reserved only for complex procedures or special circumstances. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the hemorrhoid surgery is a routine minor procedure—such as simple excision of external hemorrhoids or rubber band ligation of internal hemorrhoids—with a short operation time (typically 30 minutes to 1 hour), local or regional anesthesia is usually sufficient. The patient remains awake or lightly sedated during the procedure, allowing for rapid postoperative recovery and lower anesthesia-related risks. In such cases, general anesthesia is not necessary.

However, if the condition is more complex—for example, circumferential mixed hemorrhoids, or when the surgery involves concurrent anal fistula or perianal abscess—requiring extensive surgical intervention and longer operating time, or if the patient has severe spinal deformities or extreme anxiety preventing cooperation under local anesthesia, general anesthesia may be required. This renders the patient completely unconscious during surgery, ensuring optimal surgical conditions. General anesthesia is chosen specifically in these situations.

Prior to hemorrhoid surgery, patients should have thorough discussions with their doctor, disclosing their full medical history, so that the appropriate anesthetic method can be determined based on individual assessment. Preoperative preparations should be completed as instructed to avoid complications or risks related to surgery or anesthesia.

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