What it is

What is Infrared Coagulation?

Infrared Coagulation (IRC) is a minimally invasive, office-based procedure used to treat small to medium-sized internal hemorrhoids (Grades I and II). The procedure uses a handheld device to apply short bursts of infrared light to the tissue just above the hemorrhoid. This light energy quickly converts to heat, causing a small burn that coagulates the blood vessels feeding the hemorrhoid. This process cuts off the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink. The resulting scar tissue also helps to anchor the hemorrhoidal cushion to the underlying muscle, preventing it from prolapsing.

Am I a candidate?

Who is a Good Candidate for IRC?

IRC is an ideal treatment for patients with symptomatic Grade I and II internal hemorrhoids that cause symptoms like painless bleeding or mild prolapse. It is particularly effective for patients who have not found relief from dietary and lifestyle changes. Because it is quick and causes minimal discomfort, it is a good option for patients who wish to avoid more invasive procedures. IRC is not suitable for large internal hemorrhoids (Grade III-IV) or any external hemorrhoids.

How it's done

1A small scope (an anoscope) is placed to see the internal hemorrhoid.

2A slim probe rests on the tissue just above the hemorrhoid and delivers a few short pulses of infrared light.

3The heat seals the small vessels feeding the hemorrhoid and creates a tiny anchoring scar — the hemorrhoid shrinks over the following weeks.

4The visit takes minutes and you go home right away. Larger or multiple hemorrhoids often need more than one session.

What to expect

Same day

A feeling of warmth, pressure, or fullness is common and settles quickly. Most people go back to normal activities.

First week or so

Light spotting can happen as the treated tissue sloughs. Keep stools soft with fiber and fluids so you're not straining.

Following weeks

The hemorrhoid shrinks gradually. Repeat sessions are common — in one randomized trial, symptoms were controlled in about 8 in 10 patients (81%) at six months, and about 1 in 4 (28%) needed a repeat treatment.

Call right away if

Fever, trouble urinating, or pain that gets worse instead of better — rare after office procedures, but they need prompt evaluation.

Risks & considerations

What are the Risks?

Infrared Coagulation is considered a very safe procedure with a low risk of complications. Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Potential risks, though uncommon, include:

Pain or Discomfort: A feeling of fullness or a dull ache in the rectum may occur for a few hours to a day after the procedure. Significant pain is rare.
Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur 7 to 10 days after the procedure when the treated tissue sloughs off. Significant bleeding is very rare but requires immediate medical attention.
Infection: Infection is an extremely rare complication but should be considered if a patient develops fever and severe pelvic pain.
Recurrence: While effective, hemorrhoids can recur, especially if underlying issues like constipation and straining are not addressed.