The HET system is a single-use, disposable device that applies a combination of gentle hemorrhoid tissue compression and low thermal energy to significantly shrink internal hemorrhoids. This treatment is having a dramatic impact on patients who suffer from hemorrhoids.

Surgery to remove hemorrhoids is called hemorrhoidectomy. The doctor makes small cuts around the anus to slice them away. You may get local anesthesia (the area being operated on is numb, and you’re awake though relaxed) or general anesthesia (you’re put to sleep).

Low-grade heat energy is applied in the area next to the hemorrhoids. This minimizes blood flow to the area, and reduces the inflammation that contributes to hemorrhoids. The low temperature that is used minimizes the risk of collateral tissue damage nearby. Overall, the procedure only takes a few minutes.

Hemorrhoids can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to: Straining during bowel movements. Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet. Having chronic diarrhea or constipation.

There is no set duration for hemorrhoids. Small hemorrhoids may clear up without any treatment within a few days. Large, external hemorrhoids may take longer to heal and can cause significant pain and discomfort. If hemorrhoids have not resolved within a few days, it is best to see a doctor for treatment.

Background

• Internal hemorrhoids often present with bleeding, prolapse, and other symptoms.
• Currently used nonsurgical treatment modalities have limited effectiveness and usually require several treatment sessions.

Methods

• Analysis of medical records of 23 patients treated with the HET Bipolar System at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland from August 2011 through February 2013.
• Patients with mild, moderate, or severe actively bleeding grade I and grade II internal hemorrhoids were treated.
• Patients who needed therapeutic anticoagulation, had an underlying bleeding disorder, or a platelet count < 50,000 platelets were excluded.
• After the procedure all patients were discharged and returned to clinic one month later. Follow up phone calls occurred at 3, 6, and 12 months post procedure.

Results

• None of the 23 patients treated with HET Bipolar System reported hemorrhoidal bleeding or prolapse at the average follow up of 11.2 ± 4.7 months.
• Of the five patients who were treated without sedation, none complained of pain or rectal discomfort during the procedure.
• All patients denied pain or discomfort after the procedure and no patients asked for analgesics post procedure.

Conclusion

• Effective treatment with HET Bipolar System may require only 1 therapeutic session.
• Hemorrhoid Energy Therapy using the HET Bipolar System can be performed quickly and easily with minimal pain or discomfort to the patient.
• HET Bipolar System is safe and demonstrated resolution of bleeding and prolapse of grades I and II hemorrhoids after an average of 11.2 months follow up.