Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum that may cause discomfort. There are two types: external or internal. External hemorrhoids tend to be painful, whereas internal hemorrhoids tend to cause symptoms such as: itching, bleeding, swelling, prolapse, and/or leakage.

For those with symptomatic internal hemorrhoids who are experiencing itching, bleeding, swelling, prolapse, or leakage, hemorrhoid banding may be a good option. The in-office procedure only takes minutes, is minimally invasive, and is a generally pain-free alternative to surgery.

The technique involves your provider inserting a small, smooth-tipped tool (called a ligator) in the anal canal, applying gentle suction, and releasing a small rubber band around the base of the tissue. The technique is meant to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid/tissue, causing it to wither and drop off on its own. The banded tissue typically falls off within a few days.  You may not even notice when this happens, since it usually passes at the same time as a bowel movement.

Only one hemorrhoid is banded per visit, and most patients require at least 3 bandings (one banding every two weeks) unless symptoms resolve sooner.