Banding of Hemorrhoids

Banding of the hemorrhoids is a procedure in which a tiny rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoid. The tight rubber band strangulates the blood supply of the hemorrhoid thereby causing it to shrink in size. As the hemorrhoid shrivels up and falls off in 7 to 14 days, you may notice the small black rubber band in your stools and some minor bleeding.

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Before Banding is Performed

• Do not take aspirin, motrin or aleve 1 week prior to banding and for 2 weeks after the banding

• Take a Fleet enema before coming to office for the procedure

• Procedure may be repeated once a month for 3 times

After Banding is Performed

• Expect some discomfort or pain for one to two weeks

• If there is severe pain at the operative site, call the doctor immediately

• You are encouraged to take a high fiber diet. Use bran, brown bread, vegetables, fruits, beans and cereal

• You may notice some irritation around the anus or mucus or blood. This is normal.

• Take a Sitz bath or sit in a tub of luke-warm water for 15 minutes about 3 times a day until the discomfort has completely gone

• Quite often Tylenol is sufficient for the mild discomfort noticed after this procedure. Do not use aspirin, motrin or aleve.

• Your surgeon may prescribe you some prescription painkillers. Take 2 painkillers every 4 to 6 hours or as required. The painkillers may cause dizziness, drowsiness or nausea. Do not take alcohol with these medications.

• Take Metamucil for 4 weeks after each banding procedure

• Avoid constipation. Do not strain in the bathroom. If you do become constipated take some senna or dulcolax tablets, which are over the counter medications.

• Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 1 week.