The Rafaelo procedure is a medical treatment for internal haemorrhoids using radio frequency ablation to shrivel the blood vessels responsible for piles. The technique is associated with less postoperative pain and quicker recovery time compared to traditional haemorrhoid treatments. It can be performed without a general anaesthetic and is affords a rapid recovery and return to normal activity in most cases.
What happens during the Rafaelo procedure?
The Rafaelo procedure is performed in awake patients lying on their side with knees curled up towards their chest. Although awake it is common to use sedation to keep the patient relaxed during the procedure. A small plastic tube (proctoscope) is placed within the anal canal and local anaesthetic used to inject in to the haemorrhoid. The probe is placed within the haemorrhoid and the radio-frequency energy delivered to coagulate the blood vessel. The haemorrhoids will thereafter reduce in size and continue to shrink over two weeks following treatment. Patients can expect to return home on the same day as treatment as the procedure only takes approximately 15 – 20 minutes.
Rafaelo Procedure FAQ’s
As with any medical procedure, there can be risks albeit minor. Bleeding is the most common over the few days following the procedure and as a scab falls from the site of treatment. It is normal to expect a small amount of bleeding each time the bowel is emptied in the first two weeks following treatment. Mostly this settles spontaneously and only very occasionally is further operative intervention required. If patients experience significant and continued bleeding medical help should be sort.
Preparation before any medical treatment can help alleviate any complications or side effects that may arise post-operation. Surgeons will often provide a plan and advise on how best to prepare for the Rafaelo procedure. The most common preparations for Rafaelo include:
● Stopping smoking
● Losing weight if you are overweight
● Routine scans / blood tests if needed
● Remaining active and doing regular exercise
Contact Mr Andrew Clarke today
If you suspect that you have internal haemorrhoids, and are experiencing symptoms, Mr. Andrew Clarke offers treatment for this condition. Remember that bleeding and alterations in the function of your bowel are not always attributable to haemorrhoids and it is important to seek medical review in any patient with persistent rectal bleeding and / or a change in bowel habit.