Anal polyp surgery | Doctors & treatment information

There are known clinical pictures around the rectum and in the area of the anus with similar symptoms. It is therefore all the more important that you consult a bowel specialist. These are specialists in the fields of surgery or urology with the possible additional qualifications of proctology or visceral surgery.


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Anal polyp surgery - Further information

What are anal polyps?

Discomfort in the anus is usually associated with hemorrhoids (arteriovenous blood vessel cushions). However, there are several other tissue changes in the anal area that also lead to discomfort.

One of these is anal polyps, which are basically benign. They appear as stalked protrusions of the mucous membrane in the anal area.

The examination used to detect polyps is proctoscopy (anal canal endoscopy). It is the basic examination for all diseases and symptoms affecting the anus, sphincter and anal canal.

If necessary, the doctor can carry out further examinations, such as

  • Rectoscopy (endoscopy of the rectum) or
  • Sphincter manometry (pressure measurement of the sphincter muscle)

Polyps are usually caused by irritation. They are enlargements of the small anal papillae and regularly occur in connection with an anal fissure (tear in the mucous membrane of the anus).

In this case, unpleasant sensations are usually the rule. The appearance of polyps is otherwise often largely symptom-free. However, if they become enlarged, they may become trapped. This results in severe pain and increased bowel movements.

During an anal polyp operation, your doctor will clarify with you whether it is necessary to remove the polyps. A detailed examination and diagnosis will be carried out beforehand.

If only small polyps are present, treatment consists of anti-inflammatory ointments.

In the case of an enlargement with an anal fissure, the specialist will usually suggest surgical removal. This is associated with tolerable pain and easily treatable minor bleeding.

AnalpolypAnal polyps are benign enlargements of the anal papillae caused by irritation in the area of the anus @ Sebastian Kaulitzki /AdobeStock

Reasons for treatment of anal polyps

Patients often do not noticepolyps in the rectum themselves. In this case, they are asymptomatic and do not cause any problems. However, if symptoms are present, it is important to consult a specialist so that other diseases can be ruled out.

Anal polyps often occur as an accompanying phenomenon in connection with a pathological enlargement of hemorrhoids. In this case, surgery is likely to be necessary .

If you have no symptoms, surgical treatment is probably not necessary. However, regular examination of the polyps by your doctor is recommended in order to keep an eye on the further course of the disease.

As soon as symptoms, discomfort and unpleasant side effects occur, surgery to remove the polyps is an option.

Severe pain or the onset of faecal incontinence (inability to hold back a bowel movement) are reasons for surgical removal of the polyps.

In the case of polyp forms that involve a future risk of cancer, removal is very sensible. This is particularly the case in the rectum.

The surgical procedure is always only carried out after a prior detailed examination in order to determine the exact surgical procedure.

Surgical method for anal polyps

The aim of surgical treatment is to remove the polyps. A high-frequency diathermy snare is used for this. The surgical procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia.

This is necessary for pain-free treatment, as the anal mucosa is highly sensitive. The procedure is painless overall.

Your surgeon will use a colonoscopy procedure for the operation. He first dilates the bowel slightly by injecting air.

He places the snare around the polyp and pulls it closed under the influence of electricity. Further small electric shocks are applied to separate the polyp. No mechanical force is required to damage the mucous membrane.

Analpolypen-OPThe polyps are removed using a high-frequency diathermy snare @ Iuliia /AdobeStock

Aftercare and further course

The subsequent course of treatment depends on the initial findings. There is often an additional anal disease that is closely related to the polyps.

This includes, in particular, anal fissures in their chronic form. The complete healing time therefore varies between a few days and several weeks, depending on the medical diagnosis.

Your doctor will recommend that you actively participate in the healing process:

  • Sitz baths with anti-inflammatory substances
  • A high-fiber diet and
  • Adequate fluid intake

These measures help to avoid constipation so that the wound area is not endangered by hard stools.

Possible risks and prognosis

In principle, there is the possibility of a small amount of secondary bleeding, but this normally ends quickly. Careful hygiene is crucial to minimize the risk of wound healing disorders.

Your doctor will inform you in detail about the specific care measures.

These include above all

  • Keeping the wound clean after each visit to the toilet and
  • Avoiding soap until the wound has completely healed

In the first few days, you will be given a painkiller and a mild laxative. This should prevent pressure on the sphincter muscle.

The further prognosis depends on your medical history and your own precautions. In principle, it is possible for polyps to develop again.

A supportive lifestyle, sufficient exercise and a high-fiber diet help to reduce the risk.

Conclusion

Anal polyps originate from chronic irritation around the anal canal area. In the initial stages, they are small growths that are harmless in nature.

In the later stages, there is a possibility of enlargement, including pain and difficulties with bowel movements. As an intestinal specialist, your proctologist will inform and advise you about the uncomplicated removal of polyps.

References

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https://www.coloproktologen.de/informationen-proktologie/kolo-proktologische-behandlungen.html

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