For hemorrhoid sufferers, the idea that there exists a quick, painless treatment that causes hemorrhoids to literally heal and “fall off” probably seems like wishful thinking.
About half of adults 50 or older develop hemorrhoids, which are simply cushions of tissue in the rectum that get pushed into the anal canal, and frequently protrude outside the anus. They are painful, irritating, uncomfortable and even cause patients to alter their lifestyles or curtail certain activities.
The common causes are pregnancy and child bearing in women, heavy lifting, diets lacking in fiber leading to constipation, and sedentary lifestyles.
Topical treatments and surgical procedures have existed for decades, but hemorrhoid creams treat only the symptoms such as swelling and itching, while at the other end of the treatment spectrum surgery can be invasive and requires recovery time.
For many patients, the CRH O’Regan System, which is used by Gastrointestinal Associates Physicians, may be the answer. The procedure takes about a minute, is done in your GIA physician’s office, is painless, requires no laxative preparation, and is considered 99 percent effective in treating hemorrhoids.
The system works by placing an elastic band around the base of the hemorrhoid, which cuts off the blood supply and causes it to shrink and fall off within a few days — along with the band. We began using the CRH O’Regan System to help our patients at GIA because the treatment is so simple: no preparation, no fasting and no sedation.
Fewer than 5 percent of patients have a recurrence within two years, and the complication rate is less than 1 percent. Only one internal area is treated with a band, to prevent an increased risk of complications. About half of patients need three banding visits to address the three areas where hemorrhoids usually form. About 10-15 percent of patients require only one visit, and the same percentage require four.
This treatment offers a real breakthrough for patients who have put up with hemorrhoids for years, or even decades, because the treatment options were invasive and required down time for recovery. With the CRS O’Regan System, patients may return to work right after the procedure and resume normal activities the next day.
The CRS O’Regan System banding treatment is less expensive than surgical interventions and is covered by most insurance plans. If you think this treatment might be an option for you, make an appointment with your GIA physician by calling 865-588-5121. More information is available here.