Infrared Coagulation (IRC) for Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

Infrared coagulation (IRC) is a medical procedure used to mainly treat grade 1 to grade 2 internal hemorrhoids. This treatment is also used as an adjunctive treatment in conjunction with banding therapy or surgery for more severe hemorrhoids such as grade 3 and 4. During the procedure, the doctor uses an IRC device that creates an intense beam of infrared light. Heat created by the infrared light destroys vein complex and causes scar tissue, which cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid. Over the several weeks following the IRC treatments, the hemorrhoid shrinks and a scar formed in the lining of the anal canal, which holds nearby veins in place to prevent their prolapse.

Only one area of internal hemorrhoids can be treated at a time. Hemorrhoids patients typically get four IRC treatments at two week intervals.

Infrared coagulation is usually done in a doctor’s office in Minnesota. You may briefly feel heat and some stinging pain during the procedure, which lasts only 1-2 seconds in each touching.

What To Expect After Treatment:

Intermittent rectal bleeding could occur at any time within 14 days after the IRC procedure. Bleeding is usually minimal and mild, and resolves by itself after the treated areas heal.

You may use mild pain relievers such as Tylenol and sit in a shallow tub of warm water (sitz bath) for 15 to 30 minutes at a time to relieve discomfort.

To reduce the risk of bleeding, avoid taking aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for a week both before and after the infrared coagulation.

You take stool softeners that contain fiber to ensure smooth bowel movements and avoid strain.

One Stop Medical Center in Minnesota offers comprehensive hemorrhoid care, please call 952-922-2151 if you need a consultation.