Hemorrhoidal Banding
Hemorrhoidal Banding (Rubber Band Ligation)
A simple, effective, in-office treatment for internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidal banding is a common, non-surgical treatment used for internal hemorrhoids (Grades I–III). It is performed in the clinic and does not require sedation or an operating room.
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Your First Visit: Getting the Diagnosis Right
Your first appointment is always a diagnostic consultation. We take time to review your symptoms and perform an examination to confirm that hemorrhoids are truly the cause of your problem. In some cases, symptoms that feel like hemorrhoids are caused by another condition. For this reason, a rectal examination and usually a rigid sigmoidoscopy are part of the initial visit.
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When Is Banding Done?
Hemorrhoidal banding is usually not performed at the first visit. Most patients return for a second appointment once the diagnosis is confirmed and treatment options have been discussed.
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What Happens During the Procedure?
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The procedure takes 5–10 minutes
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It is done in the clinic
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No sedation is required
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The most uncomfortable part is usually the placement of the examining instrument. We are very mindful of this and take care to make the experience as comfortable as possible. A small rubber band is placed above the pain-sensitive area, which cuts off blood flow to the hemorrhoid. The treated tissue then shrinks and falls off naturally.
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Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients experience pressure or mild discomfort.
Severe pain is not expected.
Discomfort is usually managed with:
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Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
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Ibuprofen
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Warm baths or sitz baths
The banded tissue usually separates and passes on its own within 24–72 hours.
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When to Call Us Urgently
Please contact the clinic urgently if you experience:
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Severe or worsening pain
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Fever or chills
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Increasing rectal pain
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Difficulty passing urine
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Results and Success Rates
Hemorrhoidal banding has reported success rates of 70–90%, with the best results seen in Grade I–II hemorrhoids.
Some patients may require more than one treatment for lasting symptom relief.
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This information is provided for patient education and does not replace individualized medical advice.
How Many Hemorrhoids Are Banded at One Time?
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Most patients can expect that only one hemorrhoid is banded per visit.
Occasionally, a second band may be placed, but this is uncommon.
Why Is a Step-by-Step Approach Used?
The goal of hemorrhoidal banding is to treat the most symptomatic or most severe hemorrhoid first.
In many patients, treating the main problem hemorrhoid leads to significant symptom improvement, and no further treatment is needed.
Although it is technically possible to band multiple hemorrhoids during one visit, doing so is linked to:
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Increased post-procedure pain
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A sensation of rectal pressure or urgency
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Higher risk of urinary symptoms
For these reasons, a staged approach is safer and more comfortable for most patients.
Will I Need More Than One Visit?
Some patients do require additional appointments, especially if hemorrhoids are more extensive.
This is normal.
Treating hemorrhoids over several visits:
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Improves comfort
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Reduces complications
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Allows for a smoother recovery
Important Reminder
All patients are encouraged to read the Hemorrhoidal Banding Information provided by the clinic.
This explains the procedure, expected recovery, pain management, and when to contact us.
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This information is provided for patient education and does not replace individualized medical advice.
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Failure to cancel a booked procedure without 72 hours notice will result in a $75.00 charge.
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