Rubber Band Ligation

Rubber band ligation is an outpatient procedure for second-degree hemorrhoids. However, it is only used for internal hemorrhoids. The procedure is exactly how it sounds, a small rubber band is put around the base of the hemorrhoid, stopping the blood flow to the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid will then shrink and die within a week. The dead hemorrhoid and band will pass through normal defecation.

Rubber band ligation is not considered a surgery. This makes it a popular choice for many people. It is less painful, and has a shorter recovery period than other surgical treatments. It has a good success rate between 60 and 80 percent.

The doctor will normally start by inserting a viewing instrument into your anus so he can see that everything is going as planned. The doctor will grab thehemorrhoid with an instrument similar to pliers, and will place the band around it while holding it. After this, the doctor will remove the instruments and be done.

Some possible complications with this procedure include:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Band Slippage
• Band Breakage
• Infection
• Pelvic Sepsis
• Thrombosed hemorrhoids
• Anus fissure

After the procedure you might experience some bleeding. This is normal. However if it continues for several days you should see a doctor. You should also avoid heavy lifting and straining. It is also normal to take stool softeners after this procedure.

Even though this procedure is not considered major, it is still an agressive treatment for hemorrhoids. For this reason your doctor will normally not recommend this procedure until all other treatments have been exhausted.