Baltic American Clinic performs operations and minimally invasive procedures for diseases of the rectum and anal area. Haemorrhoids, anal fissures, fistulas, pilonidal cysts and other proctological conditions are treated surgically. Depending on the diagnosis, conventional surgical and laser treatment methods are used. Treatment is planned individually, from the proctologist consultation and examination to the procedure or operation and post-operative care.
The treatment method is chosen according to the nature and stage of the disease and the medical indications.
For some proctological diseases, methods are used that reduce the extent of surgical intervention.
Diagnosis and treatment of sensitive health problems with attention to patient comfort.
Diagnostics, surgical treatment and the necessary post-operative care in one clinic.
When may proctological surgery be needed?
Surgical treatment is considered when a diagnosed condition causes recurrent or persistent symptoms, conservative treatment is not effective enough, or the nature of the disease requires intervention.
A proctologist consultation is recommended if:
- Haemorrhoid symptoms keep coming back. You have bleeding, discomfort, or enlarged or prolapsing haemorrhoids.
- An anal fissure is not healing. Pain and other symptoms persist despite earlier treatment.
- An anal fistula has been diagnosed. Recurrent inflammation or discharge may indicate that surgical treatment is needed.
- A pilonidal cyst keeps becoming inflamed. You have pain, swelling or episodes of inflammation in the sacral area.
- Proctological growths have been found. Their nature needs to be assessed and, where indicated, they need to be removed.
- Surgery has already been recommended. You want to discuss the treatment method, preparation, alternatives and recovery.
Not every proctological disease requires surgery. In some cases conservative treatment or a minimally invasive procedure is enough.
Important. Heavy bleeding, severe pain with fever, rapidly increasing swelling or a marked deterioration in general wellbeing may indicate a condition that requires urgent medical care. In such cases do not wait for a planned consultation. In a life-threatening emergency, call 112.
Which proctological operations and procedures are performed at Baltic American Clinic?
Haemorrhoid operations and procedures
Haemorrhoids are a condition in which the haemorrhoidal cushions become enlarged and cause related symptoms. The treatment method is chosen according to the stage of the disease, the symptoms, the nature of the haemorrhoids and the results of earlier treatment.
Baltic American Clinic uses a range of haemorrhoid treatment methods:
- Rubber band ligation of haemorrhoids (Barron procedure). A minimally invasive treatment for internal haemorrhoids that restricts the blood supply to the haemorrhoid.
- Laser haemorrhoidoplasty (laser treatment of haemorrhoids). Laser energy is applied to the haemorrhoidal tissue to shrink enlarged haemorrhoids.
- Conventional haemorrhoidectomy (haemorrhoid surgery). Surgical removal of the haemorrhoids.
- Haemorrhoidectomy using LigaSure technology. The haemorrhoids are removed with a special instrument that divides tissue and seals blood vessels.
- Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation. The arteries supplying the haemorrhoids are located with ultrasound and their blood flow is reduced.
- Haemorrhoidectomy using a suturing technique. Surgical treatment using a special suturing technique.
- Circular rectal mucosectomy. Surgical treatment used in certain cases of prolapsing haemorrhoidal tissue.
- Treatment of thrombosed external haemorrhoids. When there is a painful blood clot, a surgical procedure or thrombectomy (removal of the clot) may be performed.
The doctor assesses which method is most suitable in each case. Laser or other minimally invasive treatment is not a universal solution for all stages of haemorrhoids.
Surgical treatment of anal fissures
An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anal canal that can cause pain and bleeding, especially when passing stools.
Some fissures heal with conservative treatment. However, if the tear becomes chronic, the symptoms keep coming back or treatment is not effective enough, surgical intervention may be recommended.
Surgical treatment of an anal fissure
The aim of the operation is to allow the fissure to heal and to relieve the symptoms it causes. The specific method is chosen after assessing the nature of the tear and the condition of the surrounding tissues.
Before recommending surgery, the doctor discusses possible treatment alternatives, the extent of the intervention and recovery.
Anal fistula operations
An anal fistula is an abnormal channel that has formed between the anal canal and the surrounding tissues. It can cause recurrent inflammation, discomfort and discharge.
Treatment of a fistula depends on its course, complexity and relationship to the anal sphincter muscles. It is important not only to remove the abnormal channel but also to preserve normal muscle function as far as possible.
Surgical treatment of an anorectal fistula (LIFT operation)
A surgical method in which the fistula tract is treated in the area between the anal sphincters. The aim of the operation is to remove the fistula while sparing the sphincter muscles.
Laser treatment of an anal fistula (FiLaC)
A minimally invasive method in which laser energy is used to treat the fistula tract. Whether the procedure is suitable depends on the anatomy of the fistula and other medical circumstances.
The same method does not suit every fistula. Sometimes the inflammation must be brought under control before definitive surgical treatment.
Surgical treatment of perianal abscess (paraproctitis)
Paraproctitis is an inflammatory condition in which an abscess may form in the tissues around the rectum or anal canal.
Typical signs are increasing pain, swelling, tenderness and sometimes fever.
Surgical treatment of paraproctitis
During the operation the abscess is opened and drained to remove the pus that has collected and to reduce the inflammation.
An abscess that has formed usually needs urgent surgical assessment. Medication alone may not be enough.
Further care may be needed after treatment, because in some cases an anal fistula is found later.
Pilonidal cyst operations
A pilonidal cyst is a condition that usually forms in the sacral area and the cleft between the buttocks and can cause recurrent inflammation, pain and discharge.
Surgical treatment of a pilonidal cyst
During the operation the cyst and the affected tissue are removed. The extent of surgery depends on how far the disease has spread and on previous episodes of inflammation.
Laser treatment of a pilonidal cyst (SiLaC)
A minimally invasive method in which laser energy is used to treat the cyst tract.
Surgical treatment of epithelial fistulas and cysts
Abnormal channels or cystic growths are removed surgically, depending on the diagnosis.
The treatment method is chosen individually. If there is an active abscess, it may need to be treated first.
Removal of growths in the anal area
Some proctological growths can cause discomfort, irritation or other symptoms. In other cases it is recommended to remove them to clarify the diagnosis.
Removal of anal papillomas
A growth in the anal canal is removed surgically.
Removal of an anal polyp
A polyp found in the anal area is removed. If needed, the removed tissue is sent for histological examination.
Removal of anal condylomas (warts)
Growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) are removed surgically.
Surgical treatment of anal and colorectal conditions
Depending on the diagnosis and medical indications, other surgical interventions may be performed.
Not all growths are of the same nature, so it is important to have the examinations recommended by your doctor before choosing treatment.
Which tests are needed before proctological surgery?
Before surgical treatment, the doctor needs to establish an accurate diagnosis, assess the extent of the disease and choose the most suitable surgical method.
Depending on your symptoms and the planned intervention, the following tests may be carried out:
- Anoscopy. Examination of the anal canal and lower rectum with a special instrument.
- Rectosigmoidoscopy. Examination of the rectum and, depending on the extent of the examination, the lower part of the sigmoid colon.
- A comprehensive proctological examination. Assessment of the proctological condition according to the medical indications.
Colonoscopy. An endoscopic examination of the large bowel that may be recommended for bleeding of unclear origin or other symptoms.
Blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG) and other tests may also be needed before surgery, depending on the type of operation and the planned anaesthesia.
Not every patient needs all of these tests. The doctor decides which are needed.
How does proctological surgical treatment work?
Proctologist consultation
The doctor discusses your symptoms, previous treatment and any test results. You are examined and the need for an operation or procedure is assessed.
Choosing the treatment method
Depending on the diagnosis, conservative, minimally invasive or surgical treatment is discussed. The doctor explains the purpose of the proposed method, possible alternatives, risks and the expected recovery.
Preparing for the procedure or operation
The necessary tests are carried out, your general health is assessed and you receive individual preparation instructions.
Operation or procedure
The planned treatment is carried out. The extent and duration of the intervention and the type of anaesthesia depend on the chosen method.
Post-operative care
After treatment your condition is monitored, pain relief is given if needed, dressings are changed and follow-up visits are arranged.
How to prepare for proctological surgery
Preparation depends on the specific operation or procedure, the planned anaesthesia and your health.
Before surgery it is important to take care of the following:
- Pre-operative tests. Have the tests your doctor has ordered and provide any medical documents you have.
- Medicines. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, especially those that affect blood clotting. Do not stop taking them on your own.
- Chronic conditions and allergies. Tell us about any health problems, allergies and previous reactions to anaesthesia.
- Bowel preparation. Some procedures may require special preparation. If it is needed, the doctor will give you specific instructions.
- Food and fluids. If anaesthesia is planned, follow the individual instructions on eating and drinking.
- Changes in your health. If you develop a fever or other signs of infection before the operation, inform the clinic.
- Getting home. If you are expected to go home on the day of the operation, arrange for someone to accompany you if the type of anaesthesia used requires it.
Important. Not all proctological operations require bowel cleansing. Do not use enemas or laxatives on your own unless your doctor has told you to.
Anaesthesia and care after surgery
Proctological operations and procedures can be performed using different types of anaesthesia.
For minor interventions, local anaesthesia may be used in certain cases. Other operations may require regional or general anaesthesia.
The most suitable type is chosen individually, taking into account the nature and duration of the operation and your health.
After the procedure or operation, the medical staff monitor how you feel, the intensity of any pain and other important indicators of your health.
After some minimally invasive procedures you can go home the same day. After more extensive operations, inpatient care may be needed.
Recovery after proctological surgery
How long recovery takes depends on the disease, the operation performed and your individual health.
Recovery after minimally invasive procedures is usually shorter, but even after them there may be temporary discomfort.
After more extensive surgical operations, longer care and a gradual return to normal activities may be needed.
The doctor gives you individual advice on:
- Pain control. Taking the prescribed medicines and easing discomfort.
- Hygiene and wound care. Caring for the operated area, changing dressings and monitoring healing.
- Diet and bowel movements. Getting enough fluids and fibre and preventing constipation, where relevant.
- Physical activity. Limits on movement, physical exertion and sport.
- Returning to work. Recommended rest and resuming normal activities.
- Follow-up visits. Repeat examinations and further care.
When is medical help needed after surgery?
If pain gets worse, or you develop fever, heavy bleeding, increasing swelling, unusual discharge or other worrying symptoms, you must contact a doctor.
In a life-threatening emergency, call 112.
When may proctological surgery be postponed?
A planned operation may be postponed if an active infection is found, a coexisting disease is not sufficiently controlled, pre-operative test results are unfavourable, or there are other circumstances that increase the risk of surgical treatment.
In some cases the inflammation must be treated first, additional tests carried out or your general health stabilised.
The doctor decides whether the operation is safe and when it is best performed.
Frequently asked questions
Do all proctological diseases require surgery?
No. For some diseases, conservative treatment or a minimally invasive procedure may be enough. Surgery is recommended when it is medically justified.
Are proctological operations performed with a laser?
For some diseases, Baltic American Clinic uses laser methods, including laser haemorrhoidoplasty, FiLaC fistula treatment and SiLaC pilonidal cyst treatment. Laser treatment is not suitable for every patient.
Is a laser procedure always better than conventional surgery?
No. The choice of method depends on the nature and extent of the disease, previous treatment and other circumstances. In some cases conventional surgical treatment is more appropriate.
Will I need to stay in hospital after proctological surgery?
Not always. After some procedures you can go home the same day, while more extensive operations may require inpatient monitoring.
Does the bowel need to be cleansed before proctological surgery?
Not in every case. The preparation depends on the specific operation. If bowel preparation is needed, the doctor will give you individual instructions.
Can an anal fistula be cured without surgery?
In most cases, surgical treatment is needed to remove a fistula. The doctor chooses the method according to the course of the fistula and its relationship to the surrounding tissues.
Can a pilonidal cyst be treated with a laser?
Yes, Baltic American Clinic offers laser treatment of pilonidal cysts (SiLaC). However, this method is not suitable in every case: the choice depends on the nature and extent of the disease.
Can proctological diseases come back after surgery?
Yes. Some proctological diseases, including haemorrhoids, fistulas and pilonidal cysts, can recur. The risk depends on the nature of the disease, the treatment method and individual circumstances.
When can I return to work after proctological surgery?
This depends on the extent of the operation, the nature of your work and how your recovery goes. The operating doctor gives you specific advice.
Can I get a second opinion before surgery?
Yes. During the consultation you can discuss a previously established diagnosis, the recommended operation, alternative treatment methods and the expected recovery.
Prices of proctological operations and procedures
The prices of proctological operations and procedures are set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force at the time.
The final price depends on the treatment method chosen, the extent and complexity of the operation or procedure and your individual health.
Anaesthesia, inpatient care, post-operative nursing, additional tests and other services, if not included in the price of the operation, are charged separately according to the price list in force.
The specific scope of treatment, the preparation plan and the expected costs are discussed during the proctologist consultation before the operation.