Hemorrhoid Banding in Connecticut

What is hemorrhoid banding?

Hemorrhoids, or piles, are inflamed veins that develop in the lower rectum or anus. A hemorrhoid can develop inside the rectum (internally) or on the anus (externally). It typically appears anytime the walls of the veins in the anus or rectum become so thin that the veins swell or stand out. In some situations, a blood clot will develop inside the hemorrhoid (called a thrombosed hemorrhoid) and may cause pain.

If a hemorrhoid becomes too painful or causes other health complications, it could require removal. A procedure often used to relieve internal hemorrhoids is hemorrhoid banding, also known as rubber band ligation. If you are seeking information on hemorrhoid banding in Connecticut, our providers can help. At Connecticut GI, our physician-led group of gastrointestinal specialists commonly treat hemorrhoids using hemorrhoid banding procedures.

What are the benefits of hemorrhoid banding?

If you have hemorrhoids, you’ve probably experienced some of the uncomfortable symptoms that go along with them, including itching, discomfort, and blood in the stool. Hemorrhoid banding at Connecticut GI can be an ideal nonsurgical option for several reasons. Some of the benefits of rubber band ligation include:

  • Nearly painless: While you may experience minimal discomfort during the hemorrhoid banding procedure, you will not likely notice pain as your hemorrhoid grows smaller and detaches.
  • Nonsurgical approach: Because hemorrhoid banding is a nonsurgical treatment, you can generally avoid surgery difficulties or long recovery times. The hemorrhoid banding procedure is safe and allows you to quickly return to everyday life.
  • Long-lasting results: While at-home solutions, like medicated pads, creams, or baths, might work for smaller hemorrhoids, options such as these typically only address hemorrhoid symptoms and not the actual issue. A hemorrhoid banding procedure offers a longer-term treatment option.

How is hemorrhoid banding performed?

Hemorrhoid banding is a procedure where blood flow to the hemorrhoid is cut off by applying a rubber band at its base. Over the course of some time, the hemorrhoid will grow smaller and then cease to exist. A scar will form where the hemorrhoid was, preventing surrounding vessels from swelling or creating additional hemorrhoids nearby.

Hemorrhoid banding is accomplished by inserting an anoscope into the anus. The GI provider then secures the hemorrhoid and uses a tool to place a band encircling the base of the hemorrhoid. Hemorrhoid banding is typically restricted to treating just one or two hemorrhoids at a time, except in cases where the person being treated is administered anesthesia.

What happens following a hemorrhoid banding procedure?

Depending on the patient, the recovery period and process post hemorrhoid banding varies. Some people are well enough to resume regular function nearly immediately following the procedure, while others need a couple of days of bed rest in order to recover. Discomfort is common for up to two days following hemorrhoid banding, and bleeding might occur for up to 10 days following the procedure.

Our Connecticut GI gastroenterology practice will provide detailed recovery instructions to abide by once the hemorrhoid banding procedure is finished. To reduce the risk of bleeding, it is of the utmost importance not to take aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/NSAIDs for at least four days before or following the procedure. To reduce pressure in the rectum, it is recommended that patients consume a large amount of fluids and maintain a diet with high amounts of fiber to assist in ensuring smooth bowel movements.

A non-surgical way to treat hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoid banding in Connecticut is a nonsurgical treatment typically performed by a board-certified gastroenterologist. Our gastrointestinal specialists perform this standard procedure at Connecticut GI locations and have helped thousands of people find relief from the symptoms of hemorrhoids. If you or a loved one suffer from hemorrhoids, please reach out to a Connecticut GI location near you to learn more about hemorrhoid banding or to find a gastroenterology provider.

Hemorrhoid Banding FAQs

Usually, there is nothing you need to do to prepare for your hemorrhoid banding procedure. Your GI doctor will ask you about the prescriptions and supplements you take, so you may want to keep a list handy. After your procedure, you might want to have someone available to help with daily tasks to reduce unnecessary strain on your body as it heals. Additionally, it is crucial to follow the pre- and post-treatment instructions given by your Connecticut GI provider.

Like many other procedures, there is a slight chance of risk connected with hemorrhoid banding. This can include recurring hemorrhoids, infection, and bleeding. Bear in mind, though, our doctors strive to reduce potential treatment risks. We will work closely with you to help set you up for a successful recovery process.

In most instances, it is fine to work as normal after undergoing hemorrhoid banding. Our GI specialists generally advise avoiding intense labor in the hours following this procedure. However, if you have a desk job, you can typically return to work after hemorrhoid banding.

We take steps to ensure you are as comfortable and relaxed as possible, no matter what type of treatment you need. Your provider will likely apply or administer local anesthetic to help reduce pain. However, you may notice a bit of discomfort during the procedure.