Trans-anal haemorrhoidal dearterialisation (THD)
Transanal Haemorrhoidal Dearterialisation (THD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed under general anaesthesia and carried out usually as a daycare for the treatment of haemorrhoids (grade 1 to 3) which have not responded to conservative measures.
A specially designed scope is inserted into the anal canal and using Doppler probes the haemorrhoidal artery is identified and stitched (suture ligated) to reduce blood flow engorging the haemorrhoid cushions. The operation also lifts the lining (mucosa) of the anal canal to improve symptoms of prolapse. The suture is placed above the line of pain within the anal canal so discomfort post-operatively is kept to a minimum. The external component of a haemorrhoid (skin tag) may not be completely improved to the patient’s satisfaction with such a procedure and may warrant additional intervention either at the time of THD or at a subsequent date.
Patient can resume normal activities almost immediately after surgery and complications are rare but do include post-operative pain bleeding and constipation.