What should be done for anal stenosis after hemorrhoid surgery?
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cheng Yicheng
Introduction
If the anus or anal canal is slightly narrowed, anal dilation may be performed. The procedure involves wearing a finger cot, lubricating it with liquid paraffin, and gently inserting it into the patient’s anus and anal canal; gentle pressure is then applied circumferentially around the anal canal, once or twice daily. Alternatively, small-, medium-, and large-sized anoscopy speculums or anal dilators may be used for dilation—once or twice weekly—gradually increasing the interval between sessions until the stenosis resolves completely and no recurrence occurs.
Hemorrhoids are relatively common. The saying “nine out of ten people suffer from hemorrhoids” is, in fact, supported by scientific evidence. Hemorrhoids cause considerable discomfort and pain for patients, and surgical intervention may be required in severe cases. So, what should be done if anal stenosis occurs following hemorrhoid surgery?
What to do if anal stenosis develops after hemorrhoid surgery
If the anus or anal canal is only mildly narrowed, digital dilation may be performed. This involves wearing a finger cot, applying liquid paraffin as lubricant, and gently inserting the lubricated finger into the patient’s anus and anal canal, then softly compressing the surrounding anal canal tissue. This procedure should be performed once or twice daily. Alternatively, small-, medium-, and large-sized anoscopes or anal dilators may be used for dilation—once or twice weekly—gradually increasing the interval between sessions until the stenosis resolves completely and no recurrence is observed. Typically, this process takes 6–8 weeks and yields favorable outcomes. If dilation proves ineffective, surgical intervention becomes necessary.
Firstly, postoperative dietary management is crucial. In the early recovery phase, patients should moderate food intake to minimize bowel movements and avoid contaminating the surgical wound. Once normal diet resumes, patients should consume ample vegetables and fruits, drink plenty of water, and—if needed—take oral laxatives to prevent constipation and hard stools. Secondly, proper care of the surgical incision site is essential. After each bowel movement, the incision must be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly, and dressings changed promptly. Sitz baths using potassium permanganate solution may also be employed to reduce infection risk.
Patients should begin anal dilation approximately one week postoperatively to prevent recurrence of anal stenosis; however, such dilation therapy must be conducted under the supervision of a qualified physician. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
