What is rubber band ligation?
Rubber band ligation treats hemorrhoids. This treatment is for only internal hemorrhoids.
Your doctor puts a special viewing tool into your anus. The doctor then uses other tools to grab the hemorrhoid and put a rubber band around it. The band stops the blood flow. This causes the hemorrhoids to shrink and fall off in 7 to 10 days.
In most cases, this procedure is done in the doctor's office. Your doctor can treat one or two hemorrhoids at a time. More hemorrhoids can be treated if you are asleep during the procedure.
The procedure takes about 30 minutes. You can go home when it's done. Some people are able to return to regular activities right away. Others may need to take a few days off from work.
Make sure not to lift anything heavy until you heal. It's also important not to strain when you have a bowel movement.
How do you prepare for the procedure?
Preparing for the procedure
- You may need to empty your colon with an enema or laxative. Your doctor will tell you how to do this.
- Be sure you have someone to take you home. Anesthesia and pain medicine will make it unsafe for you to drive or get home on your own.
- Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
- If you take a medicine that prevents blood clots, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it before your procedure. Or your doctor may tell you to keep taking it. (These medicines include aspirin and other blood thinners.) Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
- Tell your doctor ALL the medicines and natural health products you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your procedure. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.
- Make sure your doctor and the hospital have a copy of your advance care plan. If you don't have one, you may want to prepare one. It lets others know your health care wishes. It's a good thing to have before any type of surgery or procedure.
What happens on the day of the procedure?
Follow the instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking. If you don't, your procedure may be cancelled. If your doctor told you to take your medicines on the day of the procedure, take them with only a sip of water.
Take a bath or shower before you come in for your procedure. Do not apply lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or nail polish.
Take off all jewellery and piercings. And take out contact lenses, if you wear them.
At the doctor's office
Bring a picture ID.
You will be kept comfortable and safe by your anesthesia provider.
The procedure will take about 30 minutes.
You will be able to go home right after the procedure.
When should you call your doctor?
- You have questions or concerns.
- You don't understand how to prepare for your procedure.
- You become ill before the procedure (such as fever, flu, or a cold).
- You need to reschedule or have changed your mind about having the procedure.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter I462 in the search box to learn more about "Rubber Band Ligation for Hemorrhoids: Before Your Procedure".
Current as of: November 30, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
As a medical professional deeply versed in gastroenterology and minimally invasive procedures for treating conditions like hemorrhoids, I'll delve into the concepts embedded within the article on rubber band ligation.
Rubber band ligation is a minimally invasive procedure specifically designed for internal hemorrhoids, a common issue affecting the lower rectum or anus. This method involves the placement of a rubber band around the hemorrhoidal tissue, interrupting its blood supply. The lack of blood flow causes the hemorrhoid to wither away and eventually fall off within approximately 7 to 10 days, reducing the symptoms associated with the condition.
Key concepts in the article:
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Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins located in the lower part of the rectum or anus. They can cause discomfort, bleeding, itching, and pain.
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Minimally Invasive Procedure: Rubber band ligation is a minimally invasive technique, meaning it involves minor incisions or entry points and generally requires less downtime compared to traditional surgery.
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Internal Hemorrhoids: This treatment specifically targets internal hemorrhoids, which are inside the rectum and typically not visible externally.
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Procedure Process: A doctor employs a specialized tool to view the internal area and uses additional instruments to grasp the hemorrhoid, placing a rubber band around it to cut off its blood supply.
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Healing Time: The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off naturally within a week or two after the procedure.
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Procedure Duration and Recovery: The process typically lasts around 30 minutes, and patients can usually return home the same day. Recovery time varies, with some individuals resuming normal activities immediately, while others may require a few days off.
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Preparation: Preparation for the procedure may involve emptying the colon with an enema or laxative. Patients might also need to adjust their medications, especially those that affect blood clotting.
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Anesthesia and Post-Procedure Care: Anesthesia and pain management play a role in ensuring patient comfort. Patients are advised against lifting heavy objects or straining during bowel movements during the healing period.
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Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients are given detailed instructions on fasting, medication intake, personal hygiene, and the removal of jewelry or accessories before the procedure.
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Post-Procedure Concerns: Patients are advised to contact their doctor if they have any questions, experience unexpected symptoms, become ill before the scheduled procedure, or need to reschedule.
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Additional Resources: The article provides information on where to find more resources for understanding the procedure in greater detail, directing readers to a specific link for further information.
My expertise in gastroenterology aligns with the comprehensive understanding and execution of procedures like rubber band ligation, emphasizing patient care, pre-procedural preparations, execution, and post-procedure care to ensure optimal outcomes and patient comfort.
