There is not much good evidence about how well this procedure works or how safe it is for treating haemorrhoids. This procedure can be used but only when patients have regular checks to see how well it is working or if it has caused problems. This is because of uncertainties about its long-term effects and complications.
Haemorrhoids (or piles) are enlarged blood vessels inside or around the anal canal (back passage). In this procedure, a special probe that uses radiofrequency energy is inserted into or moved over the surface of the haemorrhoid. The treatment may need to be repeated. The aim is to shrink the haemorrhoid.
NHS Choices may be a good place to find out more. NICE’s information on interventional procedures guidance has more about what a procedure is and how we assess them.
Is this procedure right for me?
If you’ve been offered this procedure, your healthcare professionals should discuss with you what is involved, and tell you about the risks and benefits. They should talk with you about your options, and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. All of this should happen before you agree (consent) to have the procedure. You should also be told how to find more information about the procedure. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Some questions to think about
- What does the procedure involve?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- What happens if the procedure doesn’t work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I don’t want the procedure? Are there other treatments available?
ISBN: 978-1-4731-2640-4
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