The Rafaelo procedure

The Rafaelo procedure could end years of piles pain.

It's an uncomfortable fact that 75% of us will experience the pain and discomfort of haemorrhoids (piles) at some point in our lives. Piles are vascular structures just inside or around the bottom (anus and lower rectum) which, when they become swollen, can cause great discomfort. Often sufferers just about cope, but if they worsen, surgery is necessary.

The Rafaelo procedure, based on the same technology that is used to treat varicose veins, was developed in Poland, where it has been used to treat more than 2,000 patients since 2015. It is based on well-established radio frequency technology, allowing patients to walk in and walk out, with minimal post-operative pain, if any at all, and a rapid return to normal daily activities. 

It is generally carried out under local anaesthetic. The base of the haemorrhoid is injected with local anaesthetic followed by a special metal probe being inserted into the haemorrhoid. Radio-frequency energy is sent down the probe resulting in the haemorrhoid shrinking, as the blood flow is reduced. 

Most patients leave hospital within two hours with very little pain and no bleeding. Symptoms should improve almost immediately.

If you have haemorrhoids which are between grades 1, 2 or 3, Rafaelo could be the treatment for you.  Some grade 4 haemorrhoids may be reduced, but it's unlikely that they will not reach a complete resolution, which often will require surgery.

Find out more about the Rafaelo procedure on their website.