This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. Exención de responsabilidad en Español | Complete disclaimer
Hemorrhoid Banding [Rubber Band Ligation]
Definition:
Most symptoms of hemorrhoids can be treated effectively by adding fiber and fluid to the diet, to soften the stools and reduce local injury caused by passing hard bowel movements. This should always be done before considering any type of surgical treatment.
Rubber band ligation of internal hemorrhoids is an office procedure that is effective for the treatment of small, internal hemorrhoids. It is a procedure that places a rubber band around the hemorrhoid till it falls off. It is only effective for treatment for internal hemorrhoids because they have no sensation. Large, hemorrhoids that protrude out, mixed internal/external hemorrhoids or external hemorrhoids can not be banded.
Although the procedure is usually quick and painless, patients who have undergone rubber band ligation report feeling a sense of pressure and aching discomfort in the rectum that builds up after the procedure and lasts for about three days. This can be quite uncomfortable.
Post-procedure Care:
If you have undergone rubber band ligation, you will feel a dull ache and/or pressure sensation in the rectum 48-72 hours after the banding. You may feel as if you need to have a bowel movement as well. If so, do not strain to try to do so. Straining will cause more hemorrhoids to form. The discomfort is the result of the tissue being squeezed by the rubber band. This tissue dries up and sloughs off with the rubber in a few days during a normal bowel movement.
You may sit in a tub of comfortably warm water 2-3 times a day for the first 2-3 days (15 minutes each).
Diet and Medications:
Maintain a high-fiber diet and adequate fluid intake so that your bowel movements will be soft. Take a fiber supplement twice a day (for example, Metamucil,Citracel) or ½ to 1 cup of a high fiber cereal such as All Bran, Fiber One or Bran Buds, which have 10 grams of fiber per serving.
For ache or discomfort, the great majority of patients take a few Tylenol tablets or other over the counter pain remedy.
Please contact our office (734-936-5738) if any of the following occur:
- Increased pain with bowel movement or sitting.
- Temperature over 100.5 F (orally).
Information provided by UMHS Division of Colorectal Surgery
Decenber, 2007
