Hemorrhoids are enlarged and bulging blood vessels in the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoid banding is a procedure to remove them. Most colorectal surgeons believe hemorrhoid banding is more effective than infra-red coagulation (IRC).
REASONS FOR PROCEDURE
Banding is used to treat painful, swollen hemorrhoids. The procedure is most often done for the following reasons:
- Severely bleeding hemorrhoids
- Severely painful hemorrhoids
- Hemorrhoids that protrude through the anus (called prolapsed hemorrhoids)
Possible Complications
Complications are rare but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have hemorrhoid banding, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling and pain from remaining hemorrhoids
What to Expect PRIOR TO PROCEDURE
Your doctor may do the following:
- Physical exam
- Rectal exam
- Anoscopy: the visual examination of the inside of the anus using a short tube (anoscope) to help keep the sphincter open
- Sigmoidoscopy/Colonoscopy: the use of a specialized endoscope (a tube attached to a viewing device) to examine the inside of the anus, rectum, and lower intestine
ANESTHESIA
The procedure does not typically call for anesthesia and is commonly done in the office. Patients can usually return to work the same day.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCEDURE
An anoscope will be inserted through the anus. The doctor will look through the tube see inside the rectum and locate the hemorrhoid. The doctor will then use a special banding tool. The tool will place a small rubber band around the hemorrhoid. The band cuts off the blood supply. This will make the hemorrhoid fall off. More than one hemorrhoid may be banded. The band and the hemorrhoid will fall off in several days.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
This is a relatively quick procedure and can be done in the office in less than 10 minutes. Some patients need banding repeated.
WILL IT HURT?
Patients often report some discomfort during and after this procedure. Mild pain medicine, such as Tylenol, will help you manage discomfort during recovery.