Sussex Premier Health, Hastings: Important update for patients with upcoming appointments
Removal of warts in the anus caused by human papilloma virus (HPV)
Anal warts (also called condyloma acuminata) are small growths of skin that appear around the anus.
They can be removed and may be cut away using a surgical blade, a laser or a heated instrument, depending on their size and location.
Anal warts (genital warts) are caused by a virus called human papilloma virus (HPV), which infects the top layers of your skin. They should be removed since they can grow and spread, causing discomfort, and can affect your bowel movements.
Removing the warts doesn’t mean you are free from HPV. The virus can live in normal tissue for up to six months. This means you may still be infectious after this operation and warts may re-occur, needing further treatment.
At Sussex Premier Health, you will have a formal consultation with a Consultant surgeon . During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.
We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.
On the day of your operation, our ward staff will show you to your own private room. Your private room will have an en-suite bathroom and TV and Wi-Fi facilities.
Surgery to remove anal warts is usually done under general anaesthesia which means you’ll be asleep during the procedure and will feel no pain. If the warts are very small you may have a local anaesthetic which means you’ll be awake but the area will be numb.
The procedure can take up to 45 minutes.
Usually, surgery for anal warts is done as a day-case so you won’t need to stay overnight in hospital.
After your surgery, you will be taken to your room where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you’re ready to go home.
If you are sore, you may need painkillers. Please discuss any discomfort with your nurse. You may be prescribed a mild laxative to make bowel movements easier.
When you feel ready, you can begin to drink and eat, starting with clear fluids. If you need them, continue taking painkillers as advised by the hospital.
Once you’re ready to be discharged from hospital, you’ll need to arrange for a friend or family member to take you home as you won’t be able to drive.
For guidance on your recovery time, please see our patient information sections below.
You may feel sore for several days. Your recovery time depends on how much surgery you had, but you should be able to go back to work within a few days.
You can expect complete recovery in three weeks, by which time you should be able to resume normal activities.
After you’ve left hospital, we’re still here when you need us.
After your surgery for anal warts, we will provide you with advice and follow-up support.
You will be given a date for a follow-up appointment and be monitored to see if the warts reoccur.
On rare occasions, complications following surgery for anal warts can occur. Your consultant will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.
If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery you can call and speak to a member of the nursing team at any time, please call 01424 757459.
At Sussex Premier Health, your procedure will be performed by your consultant surgeon.
Our self-pay team will be able to give you a guide price for anal warts surgery.
To speak to a member of our self pay team today, call 01424 757455.
Speak to a member of our team