Decompressed Hemorrhoid Terminology
A decompressed hemorrhoid is not a standard medical term; however, when a thrombosed external hemorrhoid has the clot evacuated or removed, it is simply referred to as a "thrombosed external hemorrhoid that has been evacuated" or "post-evacuation external hemorrhoid." 1, 2
Understanding the Clinical Context
The term "decompressed" likely refers to the evacuation or excision of a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, which is the primary intervention for acute thrombosis:
Thrombosed external hemorrhoids develop when acute venous engorgement with clot formation occurs below the dentate line, causing severe pain and a palpable perianal lump 1, 3
Evacuation or excision under local anesthesia is the definitive treatment when performed within 72 hours of symptom onset, providing immediate pain relief 1, 2
After the clot is removed (evacuated), the hemorrhoid is no longer "thrombosed" but there is no specific medical term for this "decompressed" state 2, 4
Clinical Terminology Used in Practice
"Evacuated thrombosed external hemorrhoid" is the most accurate description after clot removal 2, 4
"Resolved thrombosed external hemorrhoid" may be used if the clot has spontaneously resolved over 7-10 days without intervention 1
The remaining tissue after evacuation may become a "skin tag" if redundant tissue persists 1, 2
Important Clinical Distinction
Simple incision and drainage (decompression) is not recommended due to persistent bleeding and higher recurrence rates—complete excision of the thrombosed hemorrhoid is preferred 2, 4
Multiple counter-incisions are preferred over single long incisions to prevent step-off deformities and delayed healing 1