Hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, can cause pain, itching and bleeding. If your hemorrhoids are highly symptomatic (bleeding), your doctor may recommend hemorrhoid banding. Hemorrhoid banding is a non-surgical and non-invasive, in-office procedure. During this procedure, the doctor will place a rubber band around the hemorrhoid to cut off the blood supply, causing it to wither.

Preparing for Hemorrhoid Banding

Several days before the banding procedure, you may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen or any other drugs that make it more difficult for blood to clot.

Plan for your recovery and care after the procedure and follow any instructions provided by the health care provider.

What Happens During Hemorrhoid Banding?

Hemorrhoid banding takes about five minutes. During the procedure, the doctor will place a tube-like instrument into your anus in order to examine it. He or she will then put a small, tight band around the hemorrhoid so it can dry up and fall off. The hemorrhoids will fall off about a week or so after the procedure. Usually it takes two or more treatments to eradicate the problem.

Recovery occurs the same day after the procedure. You may experience some discomfort. The doctor will advise you about recovery and when to come back for a checkup.