Hemorrhoid Treatment Options: Barren Band Ligation

Hemorrhoids are a problem for many people throughout the United States. Between 70 % and 85 % of Americans will suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in their life.

Rubber band ligation is an outpatient treatment for hemorrhoids. Typically used to treat second degree hemorrhoids and up, Rubber band ligation has a long history dating back to 460 BC.

This method first gained recognition with use of a rubber band in 1958 by Blaisdell. In 1963 the procedure was refined by Barron, who introduced a mechanical device called the Barron ligator.

A rubber band ligation procedure is an outpatient procedure which a healthcare provider will schedule for the patient after a routine examination

Typically, an individual suffering from hemorrhoids will make a doctor’s appointment. The doctor will do an examination of the affected area. In cases where a second degree hemorrhoid is diagnosed, antibiotics are often prescribed. Sometimes the patient will be on Mesalamine for up to two weeks before the actual procedure.

During the procedure, the patient will be asked to lie down on his or her left side with the knees drawn up and the buttocks projecting over the operating table. A proctoscope will then be inserted into the anal opening. The hemorrhoid is grasped by forceps and maneuvered into the cylindrical opening of the ligator. The ligator is then pushed up against the base of the hemorrhoid and the rubber band is applied.

Possible complications of a rubber band ligation are pain, bleeding, bad slippage or breakage, infection and pelvic sepsis, thrombosed hemorrhoids or anal fissure.

After the procedure has been completed, the patient may experience some bleeding, particularly after bowel movements. Sometimes, this will last for several days or even weeks. If the patient feels the bleeding is too severe or persistent, he or she should see their doctor immediately.

Patients will be asked not to take aspirin or anything containing aspirin for at least 14 days after the procedure. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be taken for any pain or discomfort the patient experiences. The patient may also be instructed to soak the affected area in a warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes three or four times a day.

Patients will be unable to do any heavy lifting or strenuous activities for three to four days after the procedure. A stool softener will also be recommended for the first three days and are available over the counter or in any pharmacy or drug store.

Finally, patients will be asked to avoid straining while having a bowel movement. If straining is unavoidable during a bowel movement, the patient can try soaking the area in warm water for 10 minutes for a better and more comfortable result.

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Hemorrhoid Treatment Options: Barren Band Ligation

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