Expressnews
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], 21st May 2025: Apollo Spectra Hospitals, in association with eminent colorectal surgeon Dr. Vani Vijay, Senior Consultant (GI – Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery), is proud to announce the introduction and launch of the revolutionary Rafaelo Procedure (Radiofrequency Ablation of Haemorrhoids under Local Anaesthesia) — a cutting-edge, minimally invasive radiofrequency therapy for haemorrhoids that offers precise delivery and quick recovery. Dr. Vani is one of the few experts in the country pioneering this advanced minimally invasive surgical technique, typically performed as a daycare procedure, offering patients faster recovery, reduced pain, significantly fewer risks, and best-in-class outcomes.
Apollo Spectra Hospitals, part of the renowned Apollo Hospitals Group, is India’s largest network of multispeciality short-stay surgical hospitals, specialising in planned daycare surgeries across key specialities, with a strong focus on Proctology care, especially haemorrhoids, or commonly known as piles. The condition affects around 40 million people in India, with a million new cases yearly, most common between the ages of 45 and 65. Many avoid treatment due to stigma or fear of surgery. The Rafaelo Procedure offers a minimally invasive, daycare solution using radiofrequency ablation. Performed under regional anaesthesia, it causes minimal discomfort and enables a quicker return to normal activities.
The Rafaelo Procedure is carried out by utilising a specialised probe to deliver controlled radiofrequency energy to haemorrhoidal tissue. This causes coagulation, dehydration, and contraction of the haemorrhoidal cushions, symptomatically treating without annihilating intervening healthy tissue. The treatment is around 30 minutes and is suited to same-day discharge. Compared to conventional hemorrhoidectomy, wherein a surgical excision is done with spinal or general anaesthesia involving overnight stay with a 2–3-week recovery time, the Rafaelo Procedure is simpler and less invasive. Since this procedure does not involve tissue incision, it preserves the surrounding anatomy, minimising trauma, and greatly accelerates healing. It’s a perfect reflection of modern surgical goals—better results with faster recovery and fewer hospitalisations. Conventional procedures may have certain degree of risk involved with infection, bleeding, and anal stenosis in some cases, whereas Rafaelo’s non-surgical procedure prevents these complications and recovers at a faster rate.
Dr. Vani Vijay – Senior Consultant GI – Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, said, “The Rafaelo Procedure marks a significant advancement in the treatment of haemorrhoids. With its minimally invasive radiofrequency technology, patients experience faster recovery, minimal discomfort, and excellent recovery with minimal or no chances of relapse. As a proctor and one of the early adopters of this technique in South India, I have personally witnessed its precision and effectiveness in over 150 cases. It’s a game-changer in proctology, offering relief with confidence and safety.”
Globally Rafaelo Procedure is more preferred among patients aged 30–60, especially working professionals with symptoms like bleeding, pain, or prolapse who can’t afford long recovery times. Those in sedentary jobs—like IT workers, corporate staff, and drivers—are particularly at risk. Postpartum women also seek this gentle, effective solution. Rafaelo offers a quick, low-downtime treatment that suits modern lifestyles. Most patients can resume desk work in 24–48 hours and short travel within a couple of days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 3 weeks. With personalised guidance, recovery is smooth and downtime is minimal.
“At Apollo Spectra Hospitals, we are committed to delivering the latest advancements and cutting-edge innovations in surgical care. Proud to be one of the leading centres in South India for the Rafaelo Procedure, reflecting our mission to bring global innovations to Indian healthcare while maintaining the highest standards of safety and excellence. This unique treatment is set to be a game changer in our fight against piles” said Ms. Rupinder Kaur, COO, Apollo Spectra Hospitals and Head of Secondary Care Partner Network.
Addressing the gathering, actress Parvathy Nair, who is known for her work in South Indian cinema and her roles in critically acclaimed films has been a strong advocate for preventive healthcare, she said, “It is heartening to see Apollo’s relentless pursuit of healthcare excellence through investments in future-ready medical technology. As someone who strongly believes in the power of preventive health, I can’t stress enough on the importance of putting our health first—before symptoms force us to. Regular health check-ups, early detection, a balanced diet, staying physically active, and being mindful of our mental well-being are the simple yet powerful tools we all have access to.Let’s continue to make fitness as a priority in our lives—not just through exercise, but by being proactive about our health choices.”
Apollo Spectra Hospital has expanded its minimally invasive treatment offerings with innovative procedures like Rafaelo PLUS, which allows for the simultaneous treatment of hemorrhoids and related conditions (fissures or fistulas) in a single procedure. They also offer FISTURA, a radiofrequency-based treatment specifically for anal fistulas. Apollo Spectra Hospitals also conducts specialist Rafaelo Procedure workshops, providing hands-on training to surgeons and proctologists. The workshops reflect the hospital’s commitment to facilitating surgical innovation and minimally invasive colorectal care.
