Hemorrhoid banding is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat symptomatic hemorrhoids in which the hemorrhoid is tied off at its base with rubber bands, cutting off the blood flow. The procedure can be used to treat both internal and external symptoms.
Uses
Hemorrhoid banding is the most widely used and effective treatment for symptomatic hemorrhoids. To do this, a doctor inserts a viewing instrument into the anus. Using a gentle suction, the hemorrhoid is grasped and a device places a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid then shrinks and, in a few days, falls off. A scar will form in place of the hemorrhoid, holding nearby veins so they no longer bulge into the anal canal.
What to Expect
The procedure takes place in our office, and lasts roughly 60 seconds. You can expect your total visit to last between 15-30 minutes. The procedure itself is painless; during the first 24 hours, you may experience a feeling of fullness or a dull ache in the rectum, but over-the-counter pain medication will provide sufficient relief.
If you have multiple hemorrhoids, you’ll likely need to come back to treat each one separately. This will allow your doctor to monitor your treatment and ensure the complication rate is kept to an absolute minimum.
Procedure Prep
Northeast Digestive Health Center's gastroenterologists are highly qualified in performing hemorrhoid banding procedures.
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