Infrared Coagulation ( IRC ) - Learn About Its Procedure

Infrared coagulation is a new non-surgical treatment technique that has revolutionized the treatment of symptomatic internal haemorrhoids. 

Much like a laser, this device focuses infrared light on haemorrhoid tissues, coagulating them. In the same way that blocking a stream will dry up a lake, IRC coagulates the "feeder veins" that deliver blood to the haemorrhoids. By gradually cutting off the blood supply, the haemorrhoid shrinks and patients gets cured . This technique is now offered in our centre . Usually, three treatments are required. This simple procedure only takes about 5 to 7 minutes and requires no incision , no anesthesia or lengthy recovery or time lost from work , infact patient can join duty immediately . The success rate is high and surgery can be avoided in most of patients. 

What is Infrared Coagulation? 

Infrared coagulation (IRC) has quickly become the most widely used office treatment for haemorrhoids and is preferred over other methods because it is fast, well-tolerated by patients, and virtually problem-free. A small probe contacts the area above the haemorrhoid, exposing the tissue to a burst of infrared light. This coagulates the veins above the causing it to shrink and recede. You can think of a haemorrhoid like a venous lake that is fed by many small streams, or veins. Blood flowing from these veins keeps the haemorrhoid full of blood and swollen. This often leads to symptoms of bleeding and painful swelling. Fortunately, there is a simple, painless, and effective alternative. For some reason, the small veins that feed the haemorrhoids lie in an area that has very few nerve endings and very little feeling. 

With IRC, your doctor can take advantage of this fact by going above the haemorrhoids and destroying these small veins. In this way, the pain sensitive area is avoided. Destroying these small veins stops the flow of blood to the haemorrhoids just like blocking a river will dry up a lake. 

How is IRC done? 

This technique could not be simpler. There is no laxative preparation or need for fasting before this procedure. You don't need a driver to accompany you. You will be asked to lie on your left side on the padded exam table. After examining the rectum with a lubricated glove, the doctor will insert a short scope called an proctoscope. This is not painful but will cause a feeling of fullness in the anal area. The doctor can now view the haemorrhoids directly. Once the "target" is identified, he will pass a small infrared probe above the haemorrhoids. 

How many visits are required? 

Each treatment takes about 5 - 7 minutes and most patient require 3 visits for treatment, 1 – 2 week apart to destroy all of the "feeder" veins. Over time, this causes the haemorrhoids to shrink and, in many cases, disappear completely. Even if the haemorrhoid is not totally eliminated, the shrinkage usually stops troublesome symptoms such as bleeding, pain, and protrusion.