You may be able discuss anaesthesia and choices of post-op pain relief with your anaesthetist
The anaesthetist is responsible for pre-medication before the surgery, your anaesthesia and wellbeing during surgery, any blood transfusions you may need, and your post-operative pain relief.
For haemorrhoid surgery, general anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia or local anaesthesia (often combined with sedation) may be used.
If you’re having general or regional anaesthetic, ask your surgeon if you can meet with the anaesthetist before the day of the procedure. This way you won’t be hurried or stressed, and can be involved in the planning.
Local anaesthetic
For a local anaesthetic, your surgeon numbs your anus and rectum so you don’t feel pain during the surgery and for some time afterwards.
Regional anaesthetic
Your anaesthetist can give you an injection of medication which numbs you from the waist down. You’ll be awake for your surgery but you won’t feel any pain.
Sedation
Sedation is often used in combination with regional or local anaesthetic. It’ll make you feel sleepy and relaxed. Sedation reduces your awareness of the surgery and any associated discomfort. The anaesthetist will normally give you sedation through an intravenous cannula.
General anaesthetic
With general anaesthetic you’ll be unconscious for your procedure and a tube will be inserted into your throat to help you breathe. You may wake up with a sore throat from the tube. General anaesthetics often cause post-operative nausea and vomiting. A general anaesthetic may be combined with an infiltration of local anaesthetic into your wound to provide pain relief after your surgery.
If you’re overweight or obese, there are increased risks associated with general anaesthesia.
Pre-medication
The anaesthetist may offer you medication before the surgery. This could be to prevent nausea, reduce stomach acid or help you relax. If you think you’ll be feeling anxious before surgery, ask if you can have something to relax you.
Pain relief after surgery
After surgery you’ll be given pain relief prescribed by your anaesthetist.
Pills, tablets or liquids can be given at regular times, or when pain starts to bother you.
Tip: print this page to take when you meet with your surgeon and anaesthetist, so you can make sure all your questions are answered.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.
