Nikki Sommer, a nurse practitioner with Key West Surgical Group and Med Spa, joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning for medical matters.
A new treatment option for hemorrhoids is now available through Key West Surgical Group and Med Spa, offering some patients an alternative to more invasive surgical procedures.
Traditional treatments can include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation and, in more advanced cases, hemorrhoidectomy.
While hemorrhoidectomy can be effective, surgically removing hemorrhoids can be painful and may require weeks of recovery.
A newer option, known as the HemWell procedure, uses low-energy electrical current to target the blood supply feeding the hemorrhoid rather than cutting the hemorrhoid out.
“The hemorrhoid isn’t actually being removed, and that’s one of the biggest differences,” Sommer said.
During the procedure, a rounded probe is positioned against the affected tissue and delivers a low electrical current. The treatment causes the blood vessel supplying the hemorrhoid to constrict, promoting clot formation and ultimately causing the hemorrhoid to shrink.
Because the tissue is not surgically cut away, Sommer said the procedure is designed to minimize damage to surrounding tissue and provide a more comfortable alternative for appropriate patients.
HemWell differs from rubber band ligation in how the blood supply is interrupted. With banding, a small rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoidal tissue to restrict blood flow. The tissue eventually shrinks and separates.
Sommer said bands can sometimes fall off prematurely, meaning patients may require multiple treatments. HemWell uses electrical energy instead and does not leave a rubber band behind.
However, Sommer emphasized that HemWell is not appropriate for every patient and does not completely replace traditional hemorrhoid surgery.
“Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for the HemWell, so she would have to go over with you what your best option is,” Sommer said.
An evaluation can help determine whether HemWell, banding, surgery or another treatment is most appropriate.
Sommer also urged people not to automatically assume rectal bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids.
“Don’t assume rectal bleeding is hemorrhoids. Get evaluated,” she said.
Rectal bleeding can have other causes, and people who are experiencing it should especially consider whether they are up to date on recommended colon cancer screening. Colorectal cancer screening generally begins at age 45 for people at average risk.
Hemorrhoids are common and can develop or worsen when pressure increases in the area. Sommer cited factors including chronic constipation, dehydration, prolonged standing and aging.
She said hemorrhoids can return, but modifying behaviors that contribute to swelling may help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
If you spend a lot of time in the bathroom, it might be a good idea to leave the cell phone behind.
“Don’t scroll social media,” Sommer suggested.
People should not be embarrassed to discuss hemorrhoids or rectal bleeding with a medical professional.
“We deal with this problem all the time. You are not the only person experiencing it,” Sommer assured.
For more information, click here: https://www.keywestsurgicalgroup.com/