How Does Rubber Band Ligation Treat Serious Hemorrhoids Cases
Rubber band ligation is a type of treatment that is used for more serious cases of hemorrhoids. Along with various other surgical procedures, it is usually a last resort when other conventional and alternative treatments aren’t resolving the problem.
When most people think of hemorrhoids, they automatically think of the more common methods of treatment, such as Preparation-H and sitz baths. But it is important to realize that not all cases are that easy to treat.
Rubberband ligation is a procedure in which the hemorrhoid is literally tied off in order to stop blood flow to it, using actual rubber bands to do so. The procedure is quite simple and does not take much time. The doctor will begin by inserting a viewing instrument into the anus, so that they are able to get a better look and as well keep an eye on things during the procedure to make sure that everything is going smoothly.
The doctor will then grasp the hemorrhoid with a surgical instrument, and while maintaining hold of this they will then place a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. This will result in stopping the blood flow to the hemorrhoid, so that it can no longer grow or strive, and it will typically end up shriveling up and dying within 2-5 days of the procedure.
The patient may notice the hemorrhoid fall off or it may just come off in one of their regular bowel movements and they may not pay any attention, either way is fine, as long as the hemorrhoid is gone within a week of the procedure, otherwise further actions will most likely have to be taken.
After the procedure, you may experience a bit of bleeding, which is normal, however if it lasts for several days or more you will want to get it checked out. You should also not be doing any heavy lifting or straining, and will most likely be recommended to use stool softeners for at least the first few days following the procedure.
Rubber band ligation is a commonly performed procedure, for a variety of reasons. For one, it is less painful than most of the other hemorrhoid procedures, and as well requires a much shorter recovery period, so you are able to have the procedure done and get on with your life, without having to worry about taking too much time off work or not being able to get up and walk around normally in general.
The success rate of the rubberband ligation procedure is also very impressive, at around 70-80 percent, and so you can go into the procedure feeling confident and assured. There are very few complications and risk factors associated with the procedure, with the most common being pain, bleeding and anal fissure. Of course, as with any other procedure, you will want to take it very seriously, and discuss it thoroughly with your doctor before going ahead with it.
Although a minor procedure, it is still considered as being one of the more serious treatment options for hemorrhoids, and so your doctor will usually not recommend you for rubber band ligation unless all other efforts have been tried with no success. You should also know that the rubber band ligation procedure is not considered as being appropriate for very severe or bulky cases, or for conditions that have previously been treated with sclerotherapy.