What is rubber band ligation?
Rubber band ligation is the most commonly used procedure to treat hemorrhoids in the United States. At Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists we use the CRH O’Regan Hemorrhoid Banding System. During this office procedure Dr. Sinha will place a tiny rubber band around the base of your hemorrhoid. The band will cut off blood supply or circulation to your hemorrhoid. This will cause your hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually fall off with a bowel movement in 1-3 days following your procedure, usually without you noticing it.
How many treatments will I need?
It typically takes two to four treatments, done about a month apart to completely eliminate your hemorrhoids, but once your hemorrhoids are treated, so are your symptoms. Don’t keep treating your hemorrhoids with messy creams and ointments. Take care of them permanently!
How long does the procedure take?
The CRH O’Regan System is a simple, painless and highly effective procedure that can be performed in less than a minute. Average procedure time is 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Will I have to take time off of work?
Average time off of work is 0-1 days and there is no pain medication required before or after the procedure.
Is it painful?
The CRH O’Regan System results in the lowest incidence of pain of any of the non-surgical hemorrhoid treatments.
What side effects could occur?
Complications, although rare, include mild pain or tightness (usually relieved with a Sitz bath), bleeding, and infection. Most patients do very well and only notice minimal discomfort during the procedure.
If you are allergic to Latex, please be sure to notify our staff prior to your procedure. Latex free bands are available.
Will my insurance company cover the procedure?
Most insurance carries cover the procedure; however, we always recommend that you call your insurance company first prior to having any procedures performed to verify coverage.
Why should I get my hemorrhoids treated? Is it really medically necessary? Do hemorrhoids increase my risk of colorectal cancer?
Hemorrhoids do NOT increase your risk of colorectal cancer nor do they cause colorectal cancer. However, more serious conditions like colorectal can cause similar symptoms.
All rectal bleeding should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional like Dr. Sinha to rule out other causes of rectal bleeding including colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy may be advised even if hemorrhoids are found.
Hemorrhoids can become strangulated or clot. In rare situations they can result in chronic blood loss and anemia. More commonly, they can cause significant pain, discomfort, and irritation. Having your hemorrhoids checked and treated can help to prevent complications from occurring, improve your quality of life, decrease your out of pocket expenses for OTC hemorrhoidal ointments and creams, and ensure that your symptoms are not the result of a more serious condition such as colorectal cancer.
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
The information on this website is to provide general guidance. In no way does any of the information provided reflect definitive medical advice and self diagnoses should not be made based on information obtained online. It is important to consult a best in class gastroenterologist regarding ANY and ALL symptoms or signs as it may a sign of a serious illness or condition. A thorough consultation and examination should ALWAYS be performed for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Be sure to call a physician or call our office today and schedule a consultation.