ABSTRACT

Haemorrhoids are cushions of vascular tissue present at the anal verge. The anal cushions are required for full continence, but straining causes the cushions to slide down and become engorged, resulting in symptomatic haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids treatment is dependent on the degree of prolapse. The patient is prepared for theatre after informed consent has been obtained. They should be given a phosphate enema and should be grouped and saved in case there is significant blood loss. The patient is positioned in the lithotomy position under general anaesthetic. The skin of the perineum and anus is prepared and Parke's proctoscope is passed per rectum. A small haemostatic forceps is applied to the haemorrhoid and gently drawn towards the surgeon, and a V-shaped incision is made in the anal skin at the base of the haemorrhoid. The haemorrhoid is then raised towards the lumen, away from the internal sphincter fibres, and transfixed and ligated with a Vicryl suture.