Two hundred twenty-six patients underwent operative hemorrhoidectomy by a single surgeon in a three-year period. In 170 patients (75.2 percent), the operation was performed utilizing the CO2 laser. Standard closed hemorrhoidectomy was done in the rest. Patients were monitored prospectively for postoperative pain, wound healing, and complications. The feasibility of undergoing operative hemorrhoidectomy as an outpatient was also monitored. No differences were seen between laser and nonlaser hemorrhoidectomy. Outpatient surgery was done in over 72 percent of the patients without any added risk to them.