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Understanding Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (HALO) Surgery

The Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats haemorrhoids (piles) by cutting off their blood supply. Using ultrasound, the surgeon locates the blood vessels that supply the piles and blocks them, causing the piles to shrink and eventually fall off. This two-stage procedure involves a Doppler-guided HALO followed by a recto-anal repair (RAR), all done in a single operation. The HALO procedure for piles effectively eases the symptoms, such as pain, bleeding, and swelling. This surgery is an excellent option for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

HALO Surgery Treats:

Check Icon Internal haemorrhoids
Check Icon Bleeding haemorrhoids
Check Icon Prolapsed haemorrhoids
Check Icon Haemorrhoidal pain and discomfort
Check Icon Persistent haemorrhoids
 

Understanding Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (HALO) Surgery

The Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats haemorrhoids (piles) by cutting off their blood supply. Using ultrasound, the surgeon locates the blood vessels that supply the piles and blocks them, causing the piles to shrink and eventually fall off. This two-stage procedure involves a Doppler-guided HALO followed by a recto-anal repair (RAR), all done in a single operation. The HALO procedure for piles effectively eases the symptoms, such as pain, bleeding, and swelling. This surgery is an excellent option for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

HALO Surgery Treats:

Check Icon Internal haemorrhoids
Check Icon Bleeding haemorrhoids
Check Icon Prolapsed haemorrhoids
Check Icon Haemorrhoidal pain and discomfort
Check Icon Persistent haemorrhoids

How Does the Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation Work?

When having a HALO procedure for haemorrhoids, you’ll usually be under general anaesthesia. This means that you will be sleeping throughout the operation. However, in some cases, you might receive spinal anaesthesia, which numbs the lower half of your body, allowing you to stay awake but feel no pain. Your doctor will discuss the best anaesthesia option for you beforehand.

During the procedure, a tube called a proctoscope is gently inserted into the anus to keep the anus and rectum open. Then, a special ultrasound probe is used to locate the blood vessels supplying the haemorrhoids. The blood supply is then cut off using a dissolvable stitch.

The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. After the ultrasound probe is removed, any prolapsed haemorrhoids are stitched back into place inside the rectum. Your doctor will guide you through the entire process, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout.

Treatment At a Glance

Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Surgery
Purpose

Purpose

Treating Haemorrhoids and Piles
Procedure Duration

Procedure Duration

30 Minutes
Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia

General
Recovery Time

Recovery Time

2 Weeks
Pain

Pain

Minimal
Drive

Drive

2 Weeks

Benefits of HALO Surgery

Quick Recovery

Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with minimal downtime, rapid healing, and less discomfort.

Minimal Discomfort

The procedure is minimally invasive, resulting in significantly less pain compared to other haemorrhoid surgery options.

Reduced Risk

This procedure carries a lower risk of complications compared to other types of haemorrhoid surgery.

Low Recurrence Rate

There is a lower likelihood of haemorrhoids recurring after this procedure compared to other surgical options.

Long-Term Solution

Effectively addresses the underlying issue, providing lasting relief from haemorrhoids permanently and safely.

Convenient Day Procedure

No overnight hospital stay is needed - return home the same day and quickly resume your normal routine.

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HALO Surgery Cost

Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!

Why Choose Leicester Bowel Clinic?

At Leicester Bowel Clinic, we focus on bowel health and conditions, digestive issues, and cancer care. Our clinic offers minimally invasive procedures for bowel problems, ensuring effective results and patient comfort. We aim to provide personalised care for our patients and offer the latest treatments for hernias, bowel conditions and rectal disorders

Meet The Team

Sanjay Chaudhri

Mr Sanjay Chaudhri

Francois Runau

Mr Francois Runau

Pippa Powley

Pippa Powley

Rebecca West

Rebecca West

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Surgery

01. What's the difference between THD and HALO?

HALO stands for Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation, which is similar to THD (Transanal Haemorrhoidal Dearterialization). Both procedures aim to treat haemorrhoids by cutting off their blood supply.

02. Does haemorrhoidal artery ligation work?

Haemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL) has shown promising results as a safe and effective treatment for haemorrhoids, especially in low-grade cases.

03. What is the haemorrhoidal artery ligation recovery time?

Most patients need around 2 weeks off work to recover, but this varies from person to person. Pay attention to your body and allow yourself the time you need to recover.

04. Is the HALO surgical treatment painful?

Fortunately, most patients experience minimal discomfort after the procedure. Since no tissue is removed and the operation is performed above the dentate line, pain is significantly reduced.

05. Can I sit after the HALO procedure for haemorrhoids?

Avoid strenuous activities for the first 1-2 weeks after your operation. Take regular sitz baths (sit in warm water for 15-20 minutes) to help with healing. Ask someone to drive you to appointments until you’re comfortable sitting and moving around.

06. Is the HALO surgery safe?

Yes, the HALO surgical treatment is safe for all skin types. However, those with darker skin tones may have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

07. How long do I need to rest after a haemorrhoid artery ligation operation?

You may need 2-3 days of bed rest after surgery, but some people can resume normal activities immediately. You may experience bleeding 7-10 days after surgery when the haemorrhoids fall off, which is normal.

08. Can haemorrhoids come back after HALO surgery?

Surgery usually cures haemorrhoids, but long-term success depends on making lifestyle changes to avoid constipation and straining.

09. How long do stitches stay in after haemorrhoid surgery?

Most stitches dissolve within 2-4 weeks, and any packs or stitches inside the rectum will either dissolve or be passed with your first bowel movement.

10. What foods should I avoid after haemorrhoid surgery?

Avoid foods high in carbs, fats, meat, fish, eggs, caffeine, carbonated drinks, alcohol, spicy foods, and irritating foods.

11. When can I drive again?

You can drive 2 weeks after the operation, but wait until you feel ready.

12. Is haemorrhoidal artery ligation suitable for all haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoidal artery ligation is usually recommended for severe (grade IV) haemorrhoids that are constantly prolapsed. Consult a specialist to determine whether this treatment is right for you.

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Schedule a consultation to discuss your symptoms and the best treatment options for you. For more information about the treatments, book a consultation and contact our Leicester clinic.