What is Hemorrhoid Banding?

We all know what Hemorrhoids are. Swollen veins that form around the anus can bleed, get infected, and really start to itch. Depending on the severity of the Hemorrhoid, most people can see their symptoms subside with a little more fiber, a better diet, and a Sitz bath with some Epsom salts. Those with a bit more inflammation can try a hydrocortisone cream like preparation H in order to relieve the burning sensation and irritation that is so common with hemorrhoids. 

If your Hemorrhoids won’t go away, and start to prolapse and protrude outside of the anus, it may be time to speak to your doctor about a more serious treatment option. Allow me to introduce to you Hemorrhoid Banding (rubber band ligation), the most common treatment for internal hemorrhoids after hydrocortisone. 

How does Hemorrhoid Banding work?

A hemorrhoid banding operation can be performed without specialized surgical equipment, often right at the doctor’s office. The process begins with a surgeon placing a rubber band around any internal hemorrhoids inside the rectum. This is done with a special rubber banding tool that is inserted inside a speculum (a special type of funnel) and placed around the base of the hemorrhoid.

Hemorrhoid rubber band litigation cuts off blood to hemorrhoid in question causing the hemorrhoid tissue to die and fall off. This can take anywhere from a few days to a week and while it may cause some pain, it should not be enough to put you out of commission.

Risks and Benefits of Hemorrhoid banding

The most obvious benefit of hemorrhoid banding is that no incisions are being made, so the process is relatively painless and often does not require anesthesia. Symptoms are usually minor and consist of pain and bleeding that can be mitigated with otc pain medication. Be sure to avoid pain medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin which may increase the chance of bleeding.

The most common risk is infection and while uncommon can lead to serious complications. It is important that any sign of infection or inflammation be reported to your doctor or surgeon immediately after discovery. Hemorrhoids may also come back if the treatment is unsuccessful. 

When to go with alternative treatment plans?

First off, rubber band litigation is only for internal hemorrhoids, and is best used to treat grade 3 hemorrhoids that bleed frequently. Outside of this if you or a loved one have:

• A compromised or weakened immune system
• Are taking blood thinners
• Have Crohn’s disease
• Have an existing infection in the region

Conclusion

Hemorrhoid rubber banding is a commonly effective procedure that is not as painful or invasive as it’s more surgical cousins. It can be done at your doctor’s office and if done correctly can leave you hemorrhoid free in a week. 

Hemorrhoids are a bear to deal with, and if hemorrhoid banding is not an option, there are still many treatment plans that are right for you. If you or a loved one would like to stop the irritation and get your hemorrhoid treated, speak to a medical professional today.