Anogenital warts

Anogenital warts are small growths that occur around the anus, genital area, or perineum. They are usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

They may appear as flat, raised, single, multiple, or cauliflower-like lesions. Symptoms may include itching, discomfort, bleeding, irritation, discharge, or cosmetic concern. In some patients they may be painless.

What to expect

Before Your Surgery

  • Authorization will be arranged by the rooms or hospital staff if required.
  • Bowel preparation must be completed as instructed to clean the colon.
  • Clear liquid diet is usually required the day before the procedure.
  • Fasting instructions will be provided.
  • Most chronic medications may be taken unless advised otherwise.
  • Inform your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medication.
  • Diabetic medication instructions will be discussed in advance.

Day of Surgery

You will be admitted to the rooms, day theatre, or hospital depending on the extent of the procedure. The procedure may be performed under local, regional, or general anaesthesia. After treatment, dressings or ointment may be applied.

Procedure

Treatment depends on the size, number, and location of the warts. Small lesions may be treated with topical medication or minor in-room procedures.

Surgical treatment may include excision, cautery, laser treatment, or freezing of the lesions. The area is cleaned and the lesions are removed or destroyed. Tissue may be sent for histology if required.

More than one treatment session may be needed, and recurrence can occur.

Procedure Length

The procedure usually takes 20–45 minutes.

Possible Complications

  • Possible complications include bleeding, infection, pain, swelling, scarring, delayed wound healing, recurrence of warts, skin sensitivity, pigmentation changes, and unintended damage to surrounding structures.

Duration of Hospital Stay

  • This is a day procedure, and patients are usually discharged the same day.

Discharge Instructions

  • Keep the area clean and dry. Take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics if provided. Mild discomfort, swelling, or spotting may occur after treatment.
  • Avoid scratching or picking at the treated area. Avoid sexual activity until the area has healed and your doctor advises that it is safe. Recurrence is possible, and further treatment may be required.
  • Please contact the rooms if you develop fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding, pus discharge, or increasing redness and swelling.

Return to Activities

  • Light activity may be resumed as comfortable. Avoid cycling, prolonged sitting, swimming, and strenuous exercise until the area has healed.

Back to Work Estimation

  • Desk work: approximately 1–3 days.
    Physically demanding work: approximately 5–7 days, depending on discomfort and wound healing.

Follow-Up and Results Discussion

A follow-up appointment is usually arranged 7–14 days after treatment to assess healing, remove sutures if applicable, discuss histology results if tissue was sent, and plan further treatment if lesions persist or recur.