What are the precautions to take before hemorrhoid surgery?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Jingxiang

Introduction

Prior to hemorrhoid surgery, it is important to undergo a physical examination, adjust dietary habits, clean the bowel, discontinue certain medications, and prepare mentally. Comprehensive preparation can reduce surgical risks and ensure the procedure proceeds smoothly. If fever, severe bleeding, or other discomfort occurs before surgery, prompt medical consultation and notification of the physician are recommended. Required preoperative tests include complete blood count and coagulation function assessment.

Before hemorrhoid surgery, it is important to pay attention to several preparatory steps, including undergoing physical examinations, adjusting diet, cleansing the bowel, discontinuing certain medications, and managing psychological well-being. Comprehensive preparation can reduce surgical risks and ensure the procedure proceeds smoothly. If fever, severe bleeding, or other discomfort occurs before surgery, prompt medical consultation and informing the doctor are recommended.

1. Complete necessary physical examinations: Blood tests, coagulation function, liver and kidney function tests, and electrocardiogram (ECG) should be performed to assess baseline health status, identify any contraindications for surgery, and ensure the body is fit for the procedure, thereby preventing intraoperative or postoperative complications.

2. Adjust diet: One to two days before surgery, switch to a light, easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid diet such as porridge, soft noodles, and vegetable soup. Reduce intake of high-fiber foods to prevent early postoperative bowel movement difficulties and minimize irritation to the surgical site.

3. Cleanse the bowel: Follow medical instructions to take laxatives the day before surgery or undergo an enema prior to the procedure. This thoroughly empties the intestinal contents, reduces the risk of infection during surgery, provides the surgeon with a clear operative field, and helps ensure optimal surgical outcomes.

4. Discontinue specific medications: Anticoagulants (such as aspirin) and antiplatelet drugs should be stopped one week before surgery, as these may increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. Always consult a doctor before stopping any medication to avoid adverse effects on underlying medical conditions.

5. Manage psychological state: Avoid excessive tension and anxiety. Communicating with the doctor about the surgical process and expected recovery can help relieve mental stress. Maintaining a positive mindset enhances cooperation during surgery and supports smoother postoperative recovery.

Prior to surgery, ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to facilitate both the surgery and postoperative care. Prepare soft toilet paper, wet wipes, and other necessary supplies in advance to support daily living needs after surgery.

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Is hospitalization required after mixed hemorrhoid surgery?

In general, whether hospitalization is required after mixed hemorrhoid surgery depends on a comprehensive assessment of factors such as the surgical method, the patient's physical condition, and expected postoperative recovery. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly consult the attending physician. Before deciding on hospitalization, patients should have thorough discussions with their doctor to fully understand the surgical procedure and their own health status. For those recovering at home after surgery, it is important to keep the surgical wound clean and dry.

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What are the precautions for internal hemorrhoid surgery?

Precautions for internal hemorrhoid surgery include preoperative preparation, postoperative pain management, bowel movement care, wound care, dietary adjustments, and more. Following these guidelines can reduce the risk of complications and promote recovery after surgery. If persistent bleeding, severe pain, or fever occurs after surgery, prompt medical attention is recommended. Preoperative tests such as complete blood count and coagulation function should be completed prior to surgery.

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When to remove stitches after hemorrhoid surgery?

If non-absorbable sutures are used in hemorrhoid surgery, the doctor will determine the suture removal time based on wound healing. Around 7–10 days after surgery, if there is no redness, swelling, or discharge from the wound, and granulation tissue is growing well without signs of infection or poor healing, the sutures can be removed to avoid prolonged irritation of the perianal skin by the sutures. However, if wound healing is slower or mild inflammation is present, suture removal may need to be delayed appropriately.

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Is hemorrhoid surgery performed under general anesthesia?

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.