Hemorrhoids are vascular structures in the anal canal which help with stool control. They become pathological or piles when swollen or inflamed. In their normal state, they act as a cushion composed of arterio-venous channels and connective tissue.

Rubber and ligation of hemorrhoids is a procedure applied to the base of the hemorrhoid, stopping the blood supply to the hemorrhoidal mass. The hemorrhoid will shrink and die within 1-2 weeks with a shriveled hemorrhoidal tissue and band will fall off during normal bowel movement.
 

Banding is used to treat swollen internal hemorrhoids. The procedure is most often done for the following reasons:

• Bleeding internal hemorrhoids.
• Hemorrhoids that protrude through the anus (prolapsed internal hemorrhoids).

Rubber band ligation is a popular procedure for the treatment of hemorrhoids, as it involves a much lower risk of pain than surgical treatments of hemorrhoids, as well as a shorter recovery period. It is a very effective procedure, recurrence rate that is only 5% at 2 years.
 

No need for anesthesia because the banding site has not pain sensation.
 

For a few days, you may have discomfort at the anus and difficulty controlling the passage of gas and bowel movements. When you return home after the procedure, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

• Do not strain, bear down, or hold your breath during a bowel movement.
• Do not sit on the toilet for long periods of time.
• To prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements, use a stool softener, exercise, drink plenty of fluids, and eat plenty of high-fiber foods.(such as fruits, vegetables , beans, and whole grains)
• Apply creams or ointments as directed by your doctor.
• Avoid heavy lifting for 1 week.
• Expect some bleeding after the procedure and when the hemorrhoid falls off.
• See your doctor for a follow-up.

 
Complications
Complications are rare. If you are planning to have hemorrhoid banding, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Infection/fever
• Bleeding
• Recurrence of hemorrhoids
• Swelling and pain from remaining hemorrhoids
• Adverse reaction to the local anesthetic (if used)

The likelihood of success depends on many factors. Most of cases, a single treatment can achieve satisfactory results. If the symptoms of bleeding and prolapse due to hemorrhoids are not relieved, further band ligation or other conservative treatment may be tried. If you have any concern, please consult your doctor.
 
What if this procedure is not performed?
Untreated hemorrhoids can also bleed, so you could become anemic.
 

Injection therapy or surgery.