Hemorrhoid ligation is a type of treatment for hemorrhoids. Many individuals suffer from hemorrhoids. According to the Centers for Disease Control, about half of the population over the age of 50 has experienced hemorrhoids. The condition is painful and results from a high level of pressure present in the blood vessels in the rectum. There are many causes including constipation, heavy lifting, childbirth, and sitting for long periods of time. Depending on the type you have and the severity, you may need more advanced treatment. Hemorrhoid ligation is one of those options.
What Is Hemorrhoid Ligation?
Hemorrhoid ligation is not uncommon. In fact, it is one of the most used methods to treat hemorrhoids because it is minimally invasive. It can be performed as an outpatient procedure as well. During the procedure, your Brooklyn gastroenterologist or another doctor will place a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. When this is in place, it causes the blood supply to the hemorrhoid to be cut off. Over a few days, the mass will begin to shrink and, usually within a week, it will fall off. This method is highly effective with a success rate of as high as 80 percent. In addition, it is often sought after by doctors because it does not cause pain and can lead to a shorter recovery period than more advanced procedures such as a surgical hemorrhoidectomy.
Many Brooklyn hemorrhoid doctors believe that this is one of the best ways to treat hemorrhoids for multiple reasons. For example, it is an outpatient procedure with very few, if any, potential side effects. Additionally, most people benefit from this procedure and can avoid more radical procedures. It is simple and safe for most hemorrhoids including those rated first, second, or third-degree hemorrhoids.
Who Can Benefit from this Procedure?
Generally, most patients with common hemorrhoids will benefit from ligation. If you are using an anticoagulant to thin your blood or have acute thrombosis of the hemorrhoid, you may not qualify. Additionally, those hemorrhoids graded at IV or higher may not use this type of treatment. When you visit your GI doctor at our Cobble Hill or Ocean Parkway office in Brooklyn, NY, he or she can help you determine if this is the best treatment for your specific needs.
What Happens During a Hemorrhoid Litigation?
During this procedure, you will be sedated so that you are relaxed. A scope is used to expose the hemorrhoid for treatment. The doctor will then use a tool to position a band at the very base of the hemorrhoid. This procedure is very precise and aims to enable treatment of one or two hemorrhoids at one time. More can be treated over the course of four to six weeks as necessary.
After the procedure, you’ll be able to go home and resume your normal daily activities. You may have some discomfort and swelling, but that is expected. Your Brooklyn doctor will tell you more about what to expect from the outcome since this can differ from one patient to the next.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemorrhoid Ligation
Why is hemorrhoid ligation a preferred treatment option?
Hemorrhoid ligation or banding is often preferred because it is effective, minimally invasive, and does not require surgery. The procedure cuts off blood flow to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and fall off naturally. It is an outpatient procedure that allows patients to return to normal activities quickly.
What if I have multiple hemorrhoids?
If you have more than one hemorrhoid, your GI doctor can treat them in stages. Typically, the doctor starts with the largest, most symptomatic hemorrhoid. We’ll schedule additional appointments to treat the remaining hemorrhoids at an interval of 2-3 weeks to reduce discomfort and allow proper healing.
Is there any preparation I need for hemorrhoid ligation?
Preparation is usually minimal. You may be asked to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure. You may also need to clear your colon with laxatives/enemas. Your Brooklyn GI doctor will provide clear instructions to ensure a seamless procedure.
How long does it take to recover from hemorrhoid ligation?
Recovery is generally quick. Most patients resume normal daily activities the next day, primarily due to lingering sedation. The banded hemorrhoid usually falls off within 7-14 days. Your doctor will recommend medication and a soft diet to prevent constipation. You may notice some blood spots for a few days, but this is normal.
Is hemorrhoid ligation painful?
The procedure causes minimal discomfort. Your gastroenterologist uses sedation and anesthetics to ensure a comfortable experience. The procedure is also quick, taking a few minutes. Any discomfort afterward is typically mild and short-lived.
Is hemorrhoid ligation better than surgery?
Yes! Banding is preferred for mild to moderate internal hemorrhoids because it is minimally invasive, faster, and requires little to no downtime. There are no surgical incisions, and the risks are minimal. We only recommend surgery for severe, large, or prolapsed hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments.
Who may not be a good candidate for hemorrhoid ligation?
Hemorrhoid ligation is best suited for internal hemorrhoids. Patients with external hemorrhoids, certain bleeding disorders, or active rectal infections may not be ideal candidates. Your GI specialist in Brooklyn will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with hemorrhoid ligation?
Although hemorrhoid banding is a safe procedure, there are a few risks your doctor will discuss with you before the procedure.
Common risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding during bowel movement
- Difficulty in urinating
- Fever and chills
Serious complications are rare, especially when the procedure is performed by an experienced gastroenterologist. Hemorrhoid ligation is a very effective treatment for internal hemorrhoids. It has a high success rate, and most patients don’t need any other treatment.
How much is hemorrhoid ligation in Brooklyn, NY?
The cost of hemorrhoid ligation varies depending on the number of hemorrhoids and insurance coverage. Our team will share costs upfront and help you understand your financial responsibility before treatment. We’ll also help you navigate your treatment costs with insurance and financing.
Where can I find a GI doctor who performs hemorrhoid ligation in Brooklyn?
Hemorrhoids can itch, hurt, bleed, and diminish your quality of life. To discover if hemorrhoid banding is right for you, call 718 521-2840 and schedule an appointment with Atlantic Gastroenterology. Whether you visit our offices in Brooklyn, NY, or Coral Springs, FL, you can expect the expert, personalized care we are known for.