Banding is a common treatment for haemorrhoids. It may be used to treat haemorrhoids which have not settled with the measures above (such as increase in fibre etc).

 

A suction device grasps each haemorrhoid and a rubber band is placed at the base which cuts of the blood supply to the haemorrhoid. This causes the haemorrhoid to shrink leaving the dead tissue to drop off over a period of up to 10 days.

​

Banding of internal haemorrhoids is usually painless as the base of the haemorrhoid originates above the anal opening – the very last part of the gut lining is not sensitive to pain. Up to three haemorrhoids may be treated at one time using this method.

​

Benefits

In about 8 in 10 cases the haemorrhoids are ‘cured’ by this technique. In about 2 in 10 cases the haemorrhoids recur at some stage. However, you can have further banding treatment if this occurs. Haemorrhoids are less like to recur after banding if you do not become constipated and do not strain on the toilet as described earlier.

​

Risks

A small number of people have complications following banding such as bleeding, urinary problems, infection or ulcers forming at the site of a treated haemorrhoid. If you see a lot of fresh bright red blood or pass clots you should seek urgent medical attention.

​​

What to expect with Haemorrhoid banding recovery

When haemorrhoid banding is finished, expect to feel:

​

• Pain from anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.

• The sensation of fullness in the lower abdomen.

• That you need to have a bowel movement.

 

You may also find it difficult to urinate and to control gas or bowel movements for a few days. Also expect to have bleeding for up to 14 days after the treatment. The bleeding may get worse at 7 – 10 days when the banded haemorrhoid drops off.

 

The wound normally takes about two weeks to heal. However, you will have no more itching, painful, bleeding haemorrhoids.

​

Aftercare

You may experience some discomfort after the banding. You should take regular painkillers such as paracetamol if you need to.