Infrared photocoagulation is a medical procedure used to treat small and medium sized hemorrhoids. During the procedure, your physician will use a device to apply an intense beam of infrared light to treat your internal hemorrhoids. The heat created by the infrared light causes scar tissue which cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. Most patients will require 2-3 sessions of treatment to achieve optimal results.
Patients are often sedated by an anesthesiologist for the procedure so that they do not feel pain or discomfort. However, sedation is not mandatory.
There is minimal preparation required prior to Infrared Coagulation. Fasting may be required for 6 hours prior to your appointment and you may require an enema prior to the procedure. It is very important that your physician’s instructions be followed carefully. The quality of the preparation can affect the physician’s ability to successfully complete the procedure.
As with all procedures it is important to advise the surgeon of all medication, vitamins and dietary supplements you are taking. Some dosages may need to be adjusted or avoided completely for a few days prior to the procedure. All allergies must be discussed with the physician or nurse as well. If you have a medical condition, such as diabetes, heart or lung disease that may require special attention during the procedure, discuss this with your doctor.
When you arrive at the endoscopy center, one of our patient service coordinators will register you for your procedure. Your demographics and insurance information will be reviewed as well as your patient rights, responsibilities.
Patient Rights and Responsibilities
The various consents which require your signature will be reviewed. You will be asked to change into a gown. A nurse or your physician will review your medical history and current medication use. Updating this information will ensure that we take the best care of you that we can. Please be prepared to review your health history at this time. Bring a list of medications and drug allergies, if necessary.
You may experience a small amount of rectal bleeding up to 7-10 days. This can be normal and often represents the hemorrhoids sloughing off. You should not have significant pain after the procedure.