Hemorrhoid Banding

Rubber Band Ligation for Hemorrhoids

Rubber band ligation is a procedure in which the hemorrhoid is tied off at its base with rubber bands, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid. This treatment is only for internal hemorrhoids.

To do this procedure, a doctor inserts a viewing instrument (anoscope) into the anus. The hemorrhoid is grasped with an instrument, and a device places a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid then shrinks and dies and, in about a week, falls off. A scar will form in place of the hemorrhoid, holding nearby veins so they don't bulge into the anal canal.

What To Expect After Treatment

After the procedure, you may feel pain and have a sensation of fullness in the lower abdomen, or feel as if you need to have a bowel movement. Pain is likely for 24 to 48 hours after rubber band ligation. You may use acetaminophen and sit in a shallow tub of warm water (sitz bath) for 15 minutes at a time to relieve discomfort.

Bleeding may occur 7 to 10 days after surgery, when the hemorrhoid falls off. Bleeding is usually slight and stops by itself. Doctors recommend that you take stool softeners containing fiber and drink more fluids to ensure smooth bowel movements.

How Well It Works

Rubber band ligation works for about 8 out of 10 people. People who have this treatment are less likely to need another treatment compared to people who have coagulation treatments. About 1 out of 10 people may need surgery. Rubber band ligation is considered to be the most effective nonsurgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids over the long term.

Risks

• Severe pain that does not respond to standard pain relief methods
• Bleeding from the anus
• Inability to pass urine (urinary retention)
• Infection in the anal area