Electrotherapy for the treatment of haemorrhoids

The procedure

The aim of electrotherapy (also called electrocoagulation) is to shrink the haemorrhoids to reduce discomfort, bleeding and their size.

The patient lies on their left side. The surgeon uses a proctoscope (a thin hollow tube, sometimes with a light at its tip, inserted into the anus) to locate the haemorrhoid. A direct electric current is then sent to the base of the haemorrhoid using a probe with metal contact points. How long the current is applied for, and its power, depends on the grade of the haemorrhoid and the patient's pain threshold. More than one haemorrhoid may be treated at each session if necessary and if the patient can tolerate it. One approach uses a low power direct electric current in an outpatient setting. Another approach uses a higher power with a general or spinal anaesthetic.