Procedures

Hemorrhoid Banding

May 3, 2022

What Is Hemorrhoid Banding?

Hemorrhoids are inflamed veins in your lower rectum or your anus. A hemorrhoid can occur within your rectum (internally) or on your anus (externally). It typically occurs when the vein walls in your rectum or anus become so thin that the veins bulge or protrude. In some cases, a blood clot will form in the hemorrhoid (thrombosed hemorrhoid) and can cause pain.

If a hemorrhoid begins to become too painful or is causing other complications then it might need to be removed. One procedure commonly used to remove internal hemorrhoids is hemorrhoid banding.

Hemorrhoid banding is a procedure in which blood flow to the hemorrhoid is interrupted by placing a rubber band at its base. Over time the hemorrhoid will shrink and then die.

A scar will form in the place of the hemorrhoid preventing nearby veins from bulging and creating more hemorrhoids.

How Does A Physician Do Hemorrhoid Banding?

Hemorrhoid banding is accomplished by placing an anoscope into the anus. The physician then secures the hemorrhoid, and with an instrument places a band around the hemorrhoid. This is typically limited to 1 or 2 hemorrhoids unless the patient is placed under anesthesia.

What Happens After A Hemorrhoid Banding Procedure?

Depending on the patient the recovery and process after hemorrhoid banding can differ. Some patients are able to resume regular activities almost immediately after the procedure and some patients need a couple days of bed rest. Pain is common for up to 48 hours after the procedure and bleeding might occur for up to 10 days after surgery. To reduce the risk of bleeding avoid taking aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for 4 days before or after your procedure.

To reduce pressure it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids and eat a diet high in fiber to ensure smooth bowel movements.