Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Multiple External Papillae or Tags, Anus
Common Names: Anal Skin Tag Removal, Perianal Skin Tag Excision

Summary

Excision of multiple external papillae or tags, anus, is a minor surgical procedure aimed at removing small, benign growths around the anal area. These skin tags are often harmless but can cause discomfort, especially during bowel movements or when cleaning the area.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of skin tags around the anus. The primary goal is to alleviate discomfort, irritation, or hygiene issues caused by these tags, leading to a more comfortable and cleaner anal area.

Indications

• Persistent discomfort or pain around the anus
• Difficulty maintaining hygiene
• Repeated irritation or bleeding from skin tags
• Patient preference for aesthetic reasons

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• They may need to adjust or stop certain medications that increase bleeding risk.
• A pre-procedure assessment, including a physical exam and local anesthetic suitability, is necessary.

Procedure Description

1. The area around the anus is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. Using surgical scissors or a scalpel, the surgeon carefully excises each skin tag.
4. Hemostasis is achieved to manage bleeding.
5. The surgical area is cleaned and may be dressed with a sterile bandage.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number and size of the skin tags.

Setting

This procedure is often performed in an outpatient clinic or a minor surgical suite within a hospital.

Personnel

• A colorectal surgeon or a general surgeon
• Nursing staff to assist with the procedure and provide post-care instructions
• An anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist if sedation beyond local anesthesia is required

Risks and Complications

• Minor bleeding or infection
• Pain or discomfort in the anal area
• Scar formation
• Rarely, changes in anal function

Benefits

• Reduction in discomfort and irritation
• Improved hygiene around the anal area
• Enhanced comfort during bowel movements
• Increased patient satisfaction and confidence

Recovery

• Patients are usually able to go home the same day.
• Recommendations may include avoiding strenuous activities for a few days, keeping the area clean, and using prescribed medications for pain and infection prevention.
• Full recovery typically occurs within 1-2 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Monitoring and managing symptoms without surgical intervention
• Topical treatments to reduce irritation
• Lifestyle and dietary changes to prevent constipation and straining Pros: Less invasive, no surgical risks. Cons: May not provide permanent relief or address the problem completely.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will feel minimal to no pain due to local anesthesia. Post-procedure, mild discomfort or soreness is common and can be managed with pain relief medications. Most patients report significant improvement in comfort and hygiene within a few weeks.