Hemorrhoidal disease affects up to 11% of the population, often causing distress and significant physical discomfort [2, 15]. While the traditional “open” surgery (Milligan-Morgan) has long been the gold standard due to its effectiveness, it is well-known for being a painful recovery process.
Today, **Laser Haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP)** offers a minimally invasive alternative that is changing the patient experience. A comprehensive meta-analysis of recent clinical trials highlights why the laser approach is gaining ground:
* **Significant Pain Reduction:** Patients undergoing LHP report much lower pain levels during the first day, week, and month following surgery.
* **Faster Return to Life**: On average, patients treated with laser can return to their daily activities and work 9 days sooner than those who undergo conventional surgery.
* **Proven Efficacy:** Crucially, research shows that the risk of hemorrhoids returning (recurrence) is equivalent between the laser technique and traditional surgery in the moderate term.
* **Fewer Medications:** Because the procedure is less traumatic, patients require lower doses of painkillers and for a shorter duration.
* **Lower Complication Rates:** LHP is associated with a lower risk of postoperative bleeding, urinary retention, and anal stenosis (narrowing of the anal canal).
The takeaway is clear: Laser technology provides superior postoperative quality of life and better tolerability while maintaining the standard-defining efficacy of traditional methods.
Every patient is unique, and the best surgical choice depends on your specific grade of hemorrhoids and lifestyle goals. Consult a colorectal specialist to discuss the most effective and comfortable treatment plan for you.
1. Tan, V. Z. Z., Peck, E. W., Sivarajah, S. S., et al. (2022). Systematic review and meta-analysis of postoperative pain and symptoms control following laser haemorrhoidoplasty versus Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy for symptomatic haemorrhoids: a new standard. International Journal of Colorectal Disease, volume 37, páginas 1759–1771 [1].
2. Lie, H., Caesarini, E. F., Purnama, A. A., et al. (2022). Laser hemorrhoidoplasty for hemorrhoidal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lasers in Medical Science, volume 37(9), páginas 3621-3630 [2].