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Infrared Coagulation

Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists Blog Infrared Coagulation

Q&A: Regarding Infrared Coagulation (IRC)

What is Infrared Coagulation? IRC is a non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment that can be performed in the office without anesthesia. It is a technique used to shrink internal hemorrhoid tissue by applying a controlled amount of infrared energy to the hemorrhoid.

How does it work? IRC works by coagulating the vessels that provide the hemorrhoid with blood. This causes the hemorrhoid tissue to shrink back.

Does Dr. Perryman have experience performing IRC? Dr. Perryman does perform IRC in the office as well as other non-surgical treatments of hemorrhoids such as rubber band ligation (RBL), sclerotherapy, and medical management.

Is it painful? Many patients report feeling a heat sensation but do not feel pain. Patients can return to work the same day.

Is IRC an effective treatment? IRC has been shown to be an effective treatment in many patients. However, studies have shown that RBL demonstrates a greater long term efficacy. It is thought that this is because RBL causes the hemorrhoid tissue to die, where IRC creates a small burn that results in minimal tissue injury.

 

Dr. Perryman would be happy to further discuss treatment options with you.

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