Rubber band ligation is the outpatient medical treatment of internal haemorrhoids. The physician has different options regarding the devices to use. There are endoscopic banding, metal devices, CRH O’Regan system that are in fact disposable, painless and effective.
In rubber band ligation, there is a tiny band that is wrapped around the haemorrhoid to basically stop the blood supply in the haemorrhoidal mass. Since the haemorrhoid does not have blood supply, it will eventually shrink in size and die in a matter of days. A scar will form in the place of the fallen off haemorrhoid. Its role is to hold the veins together so they won’t bulge out of the anal cavity. The haemorrhoidal tissue will just fall off during defecation. This procedure is commonly done in a physician’s office.
Rubber band ligation is a known method of treatment for haemorrhoids. It involves a lower risk of pain than surgical treatments of haemorrhoids. There is also a shorter period of recovery. Its efficacy is said to be great. It is said to be more effective when teamed up with the CRH O’Regan System. This method of treatment is usually done by colorectal surgeons, general surgeons, and gastroenterologists.
Possible complications include, Pain, bleeding, non-healing ulcer, thrombosed haemorrhoids, infection and pelvic sepsis.
Rubber band ligation procedure is done like this, first, there is the pre-treatment diagnosis. This step includes colonoscopy, proctoscopy or anoscopy that is performed by the physician to verify if you really have haemorrhoids. Second step is preparation. Most procedures require patients to have fasting or enema but in the CRH O’Regan System, there is no need for such. Third is, positioning the patient, the position is left side –lying or the patient has to face his or her left side on an exam table with his knees drawn up like a fetus.
Lastly, the most important part, the application of the band, usually, a proctoscope is inserted inside the anus. The haemorrhoid is then handled with a forceps and slowly maneuvered to a cylindrical opening of the ligator. The base of the haemorrhoid then is pushed up by the ligator and the rubber band is finally applied. The physician will ask if it is too tight or painful. If the bands are too painful, the physician will inject the haemorrhoids with medicine to numb the sensation.
The CRH O’Regan ligation System does not have the need to use the forceps. The device itself suctions gently, which permits the physician to slowly put the rubber band around the haemorrhoid with ease. There are typically three banding sessions that are required every two weeks for a successful and complete treatment. During general anesthesia, more bands can be applied. This procedure may take a little longer with also the possibility of more pain.
Rubber band ligation can help the anal fissure by eliminating the haemorrhoids and will make the wounds or injuries heal. Since there is no surgery involved, there will be no extra damage done to the tissue and will resume normal healing.