Rubber Band Ligation
Rubber band ligation is one way of treating internal hemorrhoids. This may be used to treat prolapsing (falling out) or bleeding internal hemorrhoids. A tiny rubber band is applied at the base of the relevant tissue, constricting the blood supply and causing the tissue to slough off and scar. The band and the involved tissue usually fall off in 3 to 10 days; occasionally this is associated with some painless bleeding. As internal hemorrhoids are not sensitive to pain, this method of treatment may enable patients to avoid the discomfort of surgery. External hemorrhoids are not able to be treated in this way.
Most people have three areas of internal hemorrhoids which are causing symptoms. Generally it takes three or four treatments, performed at intervals of about three weeks to take care of the symptoms. Only one area is banded at each visit to minimize the risk of discomfort.
After the treatment
After the treatment, most people feel nothing. One person in five may feel the urge to have a bowel movement; one in ten may feel a dull ache. For any associated discomfort, the majority of patients take one or two Tylenol tablets every three to four hours. Taking a sitz bath (soaking the bottom in comfortably warm, plain tap water for 10-20 minutes) will also relieve any discomfort.
No special diet is necessary. You should have normal bowel movements.
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Activity is unrestricted. Exercise is not harmful and can be pursued without new limitations.
Precautions
Infections may occur, but are extremely rare. If you should experience any of the following, call our office immediately, day or night (425-688-1916)
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Severe bleeding (greater than one tablespoon or continual bleeding)
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Severe pain
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Fever (greater than 100.5 degrees)
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Inability to urinate