What Is Infrared Coagulation (IRC)?

Infrared coagulation (IRC) is a nonsurgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids that uses infrared light to deliver a short burst of heat to the tissue. The heat causes the hemorrhoid to shrink by creating scar tissue, which cuts off its blood supply. Over time, the hemorrhoid dries up and falls away. IRC is considered a safe and effective outpatient procedure, typically requiring no anesthesia and very little recovery time.

Am I a Candidate for IRC?

IRC is most often used to treat grade I and II internal hemorrhoids, and in some cases, grade III hemorrhoids that do not fully prolapse. This treatment is typically recommended when symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or irritation persist despite conservative measures like fiber intake and topical medications. IRC is not suitable for external hemorrhoids or large, prolapsing internal hemorrhoids.

How Is IRC Performed?

During the procedure, your doctor will use a device that applies infrared light to the base of the hemorrhoid. The light creates heat that coagulates the blood vessels, which reduces the blood flow to the hemorrhoid and promotes scarring. This causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and recede over time. IRC can be performed in a doctor’s office or during a routine colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Sedation is usually not needed unless the procedure is performed as part of a broader endoscopic exam. The entire process typically takes only a few minutes.

How Should I Prepare and What Happens Afterward?

• If IRC is performed on its own, your doctor may ask you to use a simple enema beforehand. If it is done during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, a full bowel preparation may be required.
• After the procedure, most patients can resume normal activities right away. Your doctor may recommend increasing your fiber intake, drinking more fluids, using stool softeners to prevent straining, and taking warm sitz baths to relieve any mild discomfort.

How Effective Is IRC?

IRC is effective in treating internal hemorrhoids and relieving associated symptoms. Many patients notice improvement after one treatment, although two or three sessions are often needed for complete relief. Studies have shown that IRC significantly reduces symptoms such as rectal bleeding and irritation. It is also well-tolerated and rarely causes serious side effects. In some cases, especially when performed during endoscopy, results may be even more precise due to improved visualization of the tissue.

Are There Any Risks?

Although IRC is generally safe, minor side effects may occur. These can include mild pain, bleeding, or a sensation of fullness in the rectal area. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own. More serious complications, such as infection or tissue damage, are very rare. Compared to rubber band ligation (RBL), another standard treatment for hemorrhoids, IRC tends to cause less discomfort but may require more treatment sessions to achieve the same result.

What Are the Advantages and Limitations?

Advantages:

• Simple, outpatient procedure with minimal recovery
• No need for surgery or general anesthesia
• Can be combined with other endoscopic procedures

Limitations:

• Not effective for large or external hemorrhoids
• May require multiple treatment sessions

What Can I Expect During Recovery and Follow-Up?

Each IRC session takes less than 10 minutes, and recovery is typically very quick. Most people return to work or daily routines the same day. Your doctor may schedule follow-up visits over several weeks to assess your progress and determine whether additional sessions are needed. If lifestyle factors such as diet or bowel habits contributed to your hemorrhoids, your doctor may also discuss changes to help prevent recurrence.

Glossary of Terms

• Internal hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lower rectum that may cause bleeding or irritation but are not visible from outside the body.
• Infrared coagulation (IRC): A procedure that uses infrared light to shrink internal hemorrhoids by coagulating blood vessels.
• Endoscope: A flexible tube with a camera used to view the inside of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Colon: The large intestine, where water is absorbed and stool is formed.
• Sitz bath: A shallow bath that covers the hips and buttocks, used to relieve discomfort in the anal area.
• Rubber band ligation (RBL): A procedure where a small rubber band is placed around the base of a hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off.

Conclusion

Infrared coagulation is a safe, quick, and effective way to treat internal hemorrhoids without the need for surgery. While it may require more than one treatment session, it offers long-term relief for many patients and is well tolerated with minimal downtime. If you are experiencing symptoms like rectal bleeding, itching, or discomfort that have not improved with diet and lifestyle changes, talk to your doctor about whether IRC is the right option for you. As with any medical procedure, it’s important to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives with your healthcare provider to make the best decision for your individual needs.