Rafaelo, also called radiofrequency ablation for haemorrhoids, is a minimally invasive procedure that treats piles using controlled radiofrequency energy rather than surgical cutting. It is best suited to patients who want a shorter recovery and less post-procedure pain than conventional haemorrhoidectomy.
Signs This May Be Worth Discussing
- Bleeding during or after a bowel movement
- A lump or swelling near the anus
- Itching or discomfort around the anus
- A feeling of incomplete emptying after passing stool
- Mucus in the stool linked to piles
Why Piles Develop
Piles form when the cushions of tissue and blood vessels in the anal canal become swollen or engorged. Common contributing factors include:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or, less commonly, chronic diarrhoea
- A low-fibre diet and inadequate fluid intake
- Prolonged sitting or long periods on the toilet
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Ageing, which can weaken the tissue supporting the anal cushions
- A family history of piles
- Being overweight or regularly lifting heavy loads
Understanding the Grades of Piles
Internal piles are generally classified into four grades, which helps guide the choice of treatment:
Grade I: Small piles that may bleed but do not prolapse outside the anus
Grade II: Piles that prolapse with straining but reduce back in on their own
Grade III: Piles that prolapse and need to be pushed back in manually
Grade IV: Piles that remain permanently prolapsed and cannot be pushed back in
Rafaelo is generally best suited to Grade I to III piles. More advanced Grade IV cases may need a different surgical approach, which is discussed during assessment.
Should You Be Worried?
Piles are common and are usually treated successfully, whether through conservative measures or a procedure such as Rafaelo. However, any rectal bleeding is worth a specialist evaluation, since it is the only reliable way to confirm the cause and rule out anything more serious.
What Determines Suitability for Rafaelo
Rafaelo is generally recommended for patients with symptomatic Grade I to III piles who want a quicker return to normal activity than conventional surgery allows, including working professionals who cannot take extended time off.
Suitability depends on the grade and extent of the piles, and Dr. Mehraj will also discuss conventional haemorrhoidectomy and conservative, non-surgical management where these are a better fit, so the final choice is the right one for your specific case.
How It's Assessed
- 1. A clinical examination and review of your symptoms
- 2. Confirmation of the grade and extent of the piles
- 3. A discussion of Rafaelo alongside conventional and conservative alternatives
- 4. Planning the procedure and what to expect on the day, once a treatment is agreed
How the Rafaelo Procedure Works
Rafaelo delivers controlled radiofrequency energy into the haemorrhoidal tissue through a fine probe, causing it to shrink over time without any cutting or stitches. It is typically performed under local anaesthetic as a day case, and the procedure itself generally takes around 15 to 20 minutes, after which most patients go home the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
Day of the procedure: a short period of observation before discharge, with written aftercare instructions
First 48 hours: a feeling of fullness or mild discomfort is common, and some spotting can occur
Within a few days: most patients return to normal, non-strenuous activity
Heavier activity and exercise: resumed gradually, on a timeline discussed individually before the procedure
Why Choose Dr. Asif Mehraj for Piles Treatment
Over 15 years of experience as a Colorectal Surgeon, with a special interest in anorectal conditions
A personalised, listening-first approach to every consultation
Rafaelo offered alongside conventional and conservative options, so the choice fits the patient, not the other way round
Clear guidance on grading and suitability before any decision is made
Frequently Asked Questions
Rafaelo is performed under local anaesthetic, so the procedure itself should not be painful. Mild soreness or a feeling of fullness afterwards is normal, and most patients report considerably less discomfort than with conventional haemorrhoidectomy.
No. Rafaelo is typically performed under local anaesthetic as a day case, and most patients go home the same day.
Rafaelo generally suits Grade I to III piles. More advanced, permanently prolapsed (Grade IV) piles may need a different surgical approach, which Dr. Mehraj will discuss with you during assessment.
Both are minimally invasive options that avoid conventional cutting surgery, but they use different energy sources to treat the tissue. Whether Rafaelo, laser treatment or another approach is right for you depends on individual assessment.
Many patients resume non-strenuous work within a few days, which is one of the main reasons the procedure suits patients who cannot take extended leave. A specific timeline is discussed before the procedure.
Coverage depends on your specific policy and provider. Our team can help you check what applies to your case during your consultation.
Book Your Rafaelo Procedure Consultation in Hyderabad
Piles are common and usually straightforward to treat. Dr. Asif Mehraj offers Rafaelo alongside conventional options, tailored to what suits you best.
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