A minimally invasive office procedure placing elastic bands on internal hemorrhoids to cut off their blood supply.
Why you need it
• Persistent bleeding or prolapse of internal hemorrhoids
• Failure of medical (cream, sitz bath) therapies
Preparation
• Light diet prior to procedure
• An optional enema or laxative may be recommended
• No sedation typically required
During the procedure
• You lie on your side or in lithotomy position
• Bands placed via an anoscope
• Duration: 5–10 minutes
Afterwards
• Resume normal activity immediately
• Expect mild discomfort or urge to defecate
• Over-the-counter pain relief as needed
Risks & complications
• Mild pain or urge sensation (30%)
• Bleeding when bands slough off (5–10%)
• Rare infection or thrombosis
Follow-up
• Additional banding sessions if symptoms persist
• Stool softeners to prevent straining
