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Hemorrhoid Banding

  1. Hemorrhoids
    These are veins in the anus and lower rectum that become enlarged. The most common symptoms are rectal bleeding, itching, and sometimes pain. Hemorrhoids might come out with straining or having a bowel movement, and they can sometimes be pushed back in. There are internal and external hemorrhoids. Only internal hemorrhoids can be treated with banding. In this procedure, a rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoid tissue, strangulating the hemorrhoid which then falls off.
  2. After Each Treatment
    You may feel a dull ache for 36-48 hours following your treatment. The feeling may be noted as soon as the band is applied. The band may make you feel as if you need to have a bowel movement. Try not to move you bowels for two hours after the procedure to avoid pushing the band off the hemorrhoid. In 24-48 hours, the hemorrhoid caught in the rubber band will be completely destroyed. For discomfort, most people require tylenol, some require mild narcotics . Taking warm baths for 15-20 minutes will usually relieve the discomfort. If discomfort is severe or if there is fever of 101 degrees or more and there is difficulty urinating call the doctor immediately.
  3. Diet
    No special diet is necessary. It is important to keep your bowel movements soft and regular. Metamucil or similar fiber supplement should be taken once or twice a day. If necessary a stool softener can also be used.
  4. Activity
    You may continue your normal physical activities. You will be able to drive your car immediately after the treatment.
  5. Precautions
    The hemorrhoid will usually drop off within one week. You will usually not know this except occasionally some bleeding will occur at this time. Call the office should continuous bleeding with passage of clots should occur. It is important to remember that 2-4 treatments are usually required and that bleeding and protrusion can persist until all hemorrhoids have been treated. Swelling of the external skin can sometimes occur after the procedure, warm baths and hydrocortisone ointment can help this. If the swelling persists and the pain is intense, call the office.
  6. Follow-Up Treatment
    Generally, 2-4 treatments are required to eradicate all internal hemorrhoids. One treatment only is given at a time to minimize pain and complications.
  • SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF
  • There is intense pain with inability to urinate
  • Fever greater than 100.5°F (38.1 ° C).
  • Bleeding that does not stop