Hemorrhoid Banding

Hemorrhoids should not be ashamed of – approximately 50% of the population will experience them by age 45. Many people find that creams and ointments will only temporarily relieve symptoms.

These ointments and creams do not treat the root cause of the discomfort, bleeding, or itching.

It is time to look into a definitive treatment if you want to eliminate hemorrhoids permanently.

Call 434-384-1862 to make an appointment today!

What is hemorrhoid banding?

Hemorrhoids refer to swollen blood vessels in the anus. They are quite common in adults and can be very uncomfortable. You can sometimes treat them at home.

Hemorrhoid banding (also known as rubber band ligation) is a method to treat hemorrhoids resistant to home treatment. This minimally invasive procedure involves attaching a rubber band at the base of hemorrhoid to stop blood flow.

Why is hemorrhoid banding done?

Home remedies are often used to treat hemorrhoids. These include a high-fiber diet and cold compresses. Also, daily sitz baths can be used. Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter cream with hydrocortisone and witch hazel.

Sometimes hemorrhoids don’t respond well to home remedies and other treatments. Itchy, painful hemorrhoids can become more severe. Hemorrhoids may also bleed, which can cause more discomfort. Hemorrhoid banding is usually a good option for these types of hemorrhoids.

Your doctor may recommend that you thoroughly examine your colon if you have a history of colon carcinoma. Regular colonoscopies may be necessary.

Do I need to prepare for a hemorrhoid banding procedure?

Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications before the procedure. Also, tell your doctor about herbal supplements.

You may need to avoid eating and drinking for several hours before anesthesia.

Although hemorrhoid banding can be done easily, it is a good idea for someone to take you home and help you around your house for the next day. This will help you avoid straining, which can lead to complications.

How is hemorrhoid banding done?

Hemorrhoid surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. This means that you don’t have to be admitted to a hospital. You might even be able to have it done in your usual office.

You will be anesthetized or have a topical anesthetic applied to your rectum before the procedure. General anesthesia may be required if your hemorrhoids are severe or if you need to have many of them bandaged.

Your doctor will insert an anoscope in your rectum until it reaches your hemorrhoid. An anoscope, a small tube with a light at its end, is what you will see. The anoscope will then insert a small tool known as a ligator.

Your doctor will use the ligator to attach one or two rubber bands to the base of the hemorrhoids to restrict blood flow. This process will be repeated for all other hemorrhoids.

Your doctor will remove any blood clots during the banding process if they find them. Hemorrhoid banding takes only a few minutes in general. However, it can take longer if there are multiple hemorrhoids.