The HALO Procedure

The Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO) procedure is a surgical operation designed to eradicate piles without the need for cutting. As such, it is relatively pain free, and most patients are back to work after 24-48 hours with only a minimum of discomfort, which if there is any, is no more than a mild a throbbing in the rectum.

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The Manchester General Surgeon has been performing this procedure successfully on many patients for over 20 years.

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The basis of the operation is to restore the haemorrhoids back to their anatomical position, and occlude the blood supply to the vascular cushions forming the haemorrhoids, resulting in them shrinking. The operation is best performed under general or spinal anaesthesia.

All stages, including stage three and stage four haemorrhoids can now be treated with this technique by the addition of an Anopexy, or Recto-Anal Repair. The latter is performed in addition to the HALO and involves the application of internal sutures designed to restore normal anatomy. The Anopexy can be associated with some post-operative discomfort which can last 24-48 hours.

A miniature Doppler ultrasound device locates branches of arteries supplying the haemorrhoids. These blood vessels are tied off, and the haemorrhoid shrinks over the subsequent days and weeks.

A highly successful treatment for haemorrhoids

Because the stitch is placed in the lower rectum where there are virtually no sensory nerves the procedure is pain-free. Advanced developments to this technique now means that in addition, an Anopexy to return the prolapsing haemorrhoids back into rectum can now be performed.

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The new modified instrument allows the placement of stitches internally to lift the prolapsing tissue. This technique offers a real choice to treat a variety of stages of haemorrhoids including stage four haemorrhoids without the need to cut any tissue and therefore avoids any complications associated with those techniques.

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It is relatively painfree and 85% of patients have complete resolution of their symptoms and over 90% are thoroughly pleased with the results even if there are minor residual symptoms.

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The HALO Procedure is highly recommended because:

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• It is a walk-in, walk-out treatment that does not require an overnight stay

• It is minimally invasive

• The procedure requires minimal aftercare

• It relieves symptoms almost immediately

• It presents good long-term results

Once the procedure is complete, most patients can usually return to their normal daily activities within a few days.