How Effective Is Hemorrhoid Banding?

Summary: Hemorrhoid banding is a simple procedure that blocks a hemorrhoid's blood supply, causing it to fall off. Learn if this option may be right for you. A large number of people will be diagnosed with hemorrhoids at some point in their life. Although the exact cause of hemorrhoids is often unknown, some of the risk factors for this condition include pregnancy, frequent constipation or diarrhea, repeated straining while having a bowel movement, and obesity. Even though they may be uncomfortable, hemorrhoids typically are not a serious concern and there are a number of effective treatment methods to remove them. If you suffer from hemorrhoids, you can receive professional hemorrhoid treatment at Arizona Digestive Health. Our medical centers feature gastrointestinal specialists who have advanced expertise in treating hemorrhoids and additional GI conditions in Phoenix, AZ patients. The GI specialists at Arizona Digestive Health can provide information on the types of hemorrhoid removal procedures that may be recommended, including hemorrhoid banding.

Where are hemorrhoids located?

Hemorrhoids (also referred to as piles) are swollen or bulging blood vessels in the rectum or on the anus. Similar to varicose veins in the legs, hemorrhoids are commonly painful though most often nonthreatening. Hemorrhoids can be located internally or externally. Internal hemorrhoids, those positioned inside the rectum, commonly result in no pain or discomfort but could bleed in some instances. External hemorrhoids, which are located beneath the tissue surrounding the anus, tend to cause the most pain or discomfort. Should a blood clot occur in an external hemorrhoid, it becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid and can lead to even further discomfort or pain. The signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids are as follows:

• Rectal bleeding
• Blood in the stool
• Itching or pain in the anus

Who is a good candidate for hemorrhoid banding?

Also called rubber band ligation, hemorrhoid banding is a minimally invasive treatment where a tiny elastic band is positioned around the base of the hemorrhoid. The small band cuts off the hemorrhoid's blood flow and within about a week, the hemorrhoid typically withers and detaches. Those who are candidates for this procedure have internal hemorrhoids that bleed, or induce major discomfort, and who have not been able to reduce their symptoms with other methods, such as changes in lifestyle or nonprescription medication. Hemorrhoid banding might not be ideal for adults with an allergy to latex, inflammatory bowel disease, bleeding disorders, or rectal cancer.

What is the hemorrhoid ligation process?

The skilled specialists at Arizona Digestive Health often perform hemorrhoid banding for Phoenix, AZ adults. The gastrointestinal specialist inserts a scope into the anus and uses a device to grasp the hemorrhoid before wrapping a tiny band around its base. This treatment is usually performed for one hemorrhoid at a time except in instances where the person is under general anesthesia. Advanced expertise allows this treatment to be relatively pain-free for the patient, even in the absence of an anesthetic. However, many people will have a sensation of fullness in the rectum over the next day. Once the hemorrhoid is addressed, it typically takes several days for it and the ligature to come off, often while the patient is using the bathroom. Some individuals do not even realize when this occurs.

How effective is hemorrhoid banding treatment?

Hemorrhoid banding is regarded to be more successful than a number of other hemorrhoid treatment options. This procedure is significantly less extensive than a surgical approach and only takes around ten minutes when performed at Arizona Digestive Health. Approximately eight out of every ten people who undergo rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids will need no further treatment. Hemorrhoids removed with rubber band ligation are substantially less likely to grow back.

Learn more about hemorrhoid banding in Phoenix, AZ

Many people who have hemorrhoids feel self-conscious about getting professional care. Hemorrhoid banding is a simple, nonsurgical procedure that has provided relief and comfort to numerous patients. To meet with a GI doctor in Phoenix, AZ and learn more about hemorrhoid banding or other treatment options, contact Arizona Digestive Health today.