How Does Hemorrhoid Banding Work?

The majority of people will likely develop hemorrhoids at some point over their lifespan. Although the main cause of hemorrhoids might be unclear, a few of the risk factors include being pregnant, being overweight, recurrent straining while having a bowel movement, and chronic diarrhea or constipation. Hemorrhoids, while highly uncomfortable, typically do not cause serious complications and a number of treatment options may be used to remove them.

If you suspect you might have or are currently experiencing hemorrhoids, we urge you to seek hemorrhoid care at GastroArkansas. Our Little Rock, AR gastroenterologists provide expert care for hemorrhoids and other conditions that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Your local digestive health specialists at GastroArkansas can explain the various hemorrhoid removal procedures that may be available, including hemorrhoid banding.

Are hemorrhoids serious?

Hemorrhoids (also called piles) are bulging or swollen veins on the anus or in the lower portion of the rectum. Similar to varicose veins in the legs, hemorrhoids are commonly uncomfortable but are usually nonthreatening. Hemorrhoids can be located internally or externally. Internal hemorrhoids, or those found inside the rectum, usually do not result in pain or discomfort, though they can bleed in some cases. External hemorrhoids, which are positioned under the skin around the anal area, are the type that can carry more discomfort. When a blood clot occurs in an external hemorrhoid, it is referred to as a thrombosed hemorrhoid and is a condition that can cause even further pain or discomfort. Signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Rectal bleeding

• Blood in stool

• Itching or pain in the anal region

Who is a candidate for hemorrhoid banding?

Commonly known as hemorrhoid ligation, hemorrhoid banding is a simple procedure where a small rubber band is positioned around the hemorrhoid's base. The small band prevents blood from flowing to the hemorrhoid. Within seven days, the hemorrhoid typically shrivels and detaches. Those who are candidates for this procedure suffer from internal hemorrhoids that routinely bleed or cause pain. Hemorrhoid banding may also be ideal for patients who have been unable to diminish their discomfort with other remedies, such as over-the-counter medicaments or changes in lifestyle. Rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids might not be advised for individuals with rectal cancer, an allergy to latex, bleeding disorders, or inflammatory bowel disease.

What is the hemorrhoid banding process?

The experienced physicians at GastroArkansas routinely perform hemorrhoid banding for Little Rock, AR patients. The gastroenterologist inserts a special scope into the anus and uses an instrument to hold the hemorrhoid while placing a rubber band around its base. The treatment is usually only performed for one hemorrhoid at a time unless general anesthesia is administered. Cutting-edge expertise allows this procedure to be nearly pain-free for the individual, even without an anesthetic, but the majority of patients will have a sense of fullness in the rectum for about a day. Once the hemorrhoid has been treated, it generally requires a few days for it and the band to detach. This detachment often takes place during a visit to the restroom. At times, patients do not even realize that this has occurred.

How effective is hemorrhoid banding treatment?

Rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids is regarded to be more effective than several other hemorrhoid procedures. The nonsurgical technique is considerably less extensive compared to surgical options and only takes about ten minutes when performed by the team at GastroArkansas. About eight out of every ten patients who undergo hemorrhoid banding will not require additional care. Hemorrhoids addressed with rubber band ligation are a lot less likely to redevelop.

Find out more about hemorrhoid banding in Little Rock, AR

Should you find yourself struggling with hemorrhoids, you may feel embarrassed about seeking professional care. Hemorrhoid banding at GastroArkansas is an effective and simple treatment that has provided increased comfort to many patients. To hear more about rubber band ligation and to schedule a visit with a GI specialist in Little Rock, AR, please contact our friendly team today.