Haemorrhoid Rubber band ligation

For smaller haemorrhoids causing persistent symptoms, the internal component of the haemorrhoid can be treated in the colonoscopy suite. 

One option includes rubber band ligation is a technique that applies a tight band to the haemorrhoid within the anal canal. This blocks the blood supply, allowing the haemorrhoid to shrink and contract. This means it becomes less likely to bleed, and allows the haemorrhoid to ‘tighten’, and have less prolapse.  

Rubber bands are like docking a sheeps tail – the tissue dies and falls off. This leaves an ulcer, and ultimately a scar – it is the scar that then holds the haemorrhoid in place. 

Rubber band ligation can be uncomfortable or painful, you may feel the bands. Bleeding can occur when the bands fall off, and infection, whilst rare, can occur. 

Most activities can be resumed as tolerated, but heavy lifting or straining should be avoided, and anal intercourse best avoided for 3-4 weeks to allow any wounds time to heal.