What is this procedure? This procedure aims to get rid of your haemorrhoids. Why would you need the operation (indication)? There are different presentations of haemorrhoids. You may experience bleeding (usually on the toilet paper when you wipe after a bowel motion) or you may experience a lump in the back passage. What symptoms would you experience with this problem? As above. How do you know for sure that you have the condition therefore you need this operation? Your surgeon will examine you to ensure you have this condition prior to surgery. What scar will you have and what does the procedure involve? Depending on the severity of the haemorrhoids, the options include rubber banding or injection of the haemorrhoids, or formally cutting out the haemorrhoids, The former 2 procedures are suitable for smaller haemorrhoids. If your treatment involve cutting out the haemorrhoids, the scar will be around your pack passage. What anaesthetic will I have and do I have a choice? If you only require banding or injection of the haemorrhoids, you can often have this done without anaesthetic or with a light sedation. If you require cutting out of your haemorrhoids then you will require a general anaesthetic. What are the possible complications and what are the chances that they occur? The possible complications are small, they included bleeding and incontinence. The risk on incontinence is very small, the reason for this is that there are muscles that control you bowel motion in the same region. What to expect after the operation? You may feel some discomfort. You will be given adequate pain relief as to prevent onset of pain. You will also be prescribe laxatives to help you pass bowel motion. Should I not be doing certain things after the operation? No. We recommend you have warm bath daily to sooth the pain as well as improve the healing. We also suggest that you do not spend an excessive amount of time sitting on the toilet bowl, as this may be the cause of haemorrhoids coming back. How long should I be off work? Depending on the nature of your work, but usually you require 2-3 days prior to the discomfort settling down. When will I see my surgeon for review? Your surgeon will usually review you 4-8 weeks after the procedure. Is there long term follow-up with my surgeon? Usually no.