Piles – the “patient journey”

Your GP may refer you to a specialist clinic. Expect an examination of the anus and bowel since it is important to know that there is no other cause. Treatment may be available there and then with phenol injection or rubber band ligation if suitable.

If piles are prolapsed and large, conventional haemorrhoidectomy or stapled haemorrhoidectomy may be the best treatment, and this will normally be arranged for a date after the clinic appointment.

Post-operative pain can be managed with painkillers and laxatives. We are conducting an audit of post-operative pain in order to improve the advice we give. Current data indicate that most patients have minimal pain after a week and no pain 2 weeks post-operatively.