Early action on signs of hemorrhoidal disease - Interview with Dr. Sabine Raschke-Brodda

Even if patients often conceal their symptoms out of shame, diseases of the rectum and the anal region are widespread. Head of the Proctology Practice at the St. Joseph-Stift Hospital in Bremen, Dr. Sabine Raschke-Brodda, advises, yet to go to the doctor in time.

Dr. Raschke-Brodda, what complaints do your patients experience during their consultation?

The complaints are manifold: from itching, burning, weeping, pain, feeling of pressure in the rectum, bleeding and stool smearing to incontinence.

What types of "haemorrhoidal diseases" are there? Are there complaints that are often confused with haemorrhoids?

Combined, but also separated from haemorrhoids, anal eczema, anal fissure, anal fistula, colon prolapse or, in the worst case, anal or colon cancer can be present.

When should patients consult a doctor?

Clearly at an early stage. On the one hand, to rule out serious illnesses with similar symptoms. On the other hand, enlarged haemorrhoids, anal fissures and anal fistulas can be treated well and effectively. The therapy depends on the extent of the change.

What is important for stage-appropriate treatment?

The most important thing is the specific proctological anamnesis and examination. Patients should therefore consult a physician who is a qualified surgical specialist with the additional qualification of proctology and offers all outpatient and inpatient treatment methods.

Does surgery usually have to be performed immediately?

No. In a quiet atmosphere, patients are interviewed, examined and, after diagnosis, informed about the therapy options. If an operation is indicated, the motto applies: "As little as possible, as much as necessary".

Are there low pain therapy options?

Yes, minimally invasive LHP^® laser therapy is suitable for 2nd to 3rd degree haemorrhoidal diseases. The haemorrhoids are irradiated from the inside with the help of a centrally emitting laser fiber and thus shrunk in a controlled manner. The sensitive anal mucosa is spared and the sphincter muscle tissue remains undamaged. Especially the postoperative pain reduction is praised by the patients. The LHP^® laser treatment is a valuable operative alternative in the treatment spectrum of advanced haemorrhoidal disease.

Can anal fistulas also be treated with the laser method?

Yes, the innovative FiLaC^® laser procedure creates new, gentle healing perspectives for anal fistulas. The heat emitting laser probe welds the fistula in a short time. By avoiding cuts in the muscle tissue and protecting the sphincter muscle, continence is less at risk than with other methods.

More informations: www.sjs-bremen.de.