hemorrhoidectomy /hem′əroidek″təmē/ [Gk, haimorrhois, a vein that discharges blood, ektomē, excision] , the removal of dilated veins in the anal region to mitigate pain and bleeding. Most hemorrhoidectomies are outpatient procedures. Rubber band ligation, which can be done through an anoscope without sedation, is the most popular outpatient therapy. Surgery may be indicated for larger symptomatic external and internal hemorrhoids. The patient is usually placed in the lithotomy or jackknife position and receives spinal, caudal, epidural, or local anesthesia. Possible postoperative complications include constipation, pain, fecal impaction, hemorrhage, infection, and urinary retention. Also spelled haemorrhoidectomy.
