hemorrhoidectomy

Patient Care. Postoperatively the patient must be monitored for signs of hemorrhage; this is an uncommon occurrence but one that can develop quickly. The patient may be kept in either a prone position to relieve pressure on the operative site or a supine position (for a short period) with a rubber air ring under the buttocks for support. Warm sitz baths are usually begun the day after surgery, to relieve discomfort. Compresses of witch hazel or some other astringent agent may be applied to reduce swelling and promote healing. Difficulty in evacuating often occurs during the immediate postoperative period. The two most effective methods of relieving discomfort are keeping the area clean with multiple showers or sitz baths and maintaining a soft stool with a high-fiber diet and such agents as Metamucil.