Rubber Band Ligation for Piles and Hemorrhoids (Sigmoidoscopy)

Rubber Band Ligation for Piles and Hemorrhoids (Sigmoidoscopy)

 

Advanced Proctology Care at Global Gastro and Liver Centre

 

Rubber band ligation (RBL) is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of piles (hemorrhoids) and related anal conditions. Piles are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, bleeding, itching, and discomfort. At Global Gastro and Liver Centre, we provide safe and advanced treatment for piles using sigmoidoscopy-guided rubber band ligation, offering patients rapid relief and improved quality of life.

 

This procedure is widely recognized for its efficacy, safety, and minimal recovery time, making it an ideal choice for patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids.

 

Understanding Piles and Hemorrhoids

 

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, occur when the veins in the rectum or anus become swollen and inflamed. They can be classified into:

 

  • Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum, usually painless but may bleed.
  • External Hemorrhoids: Located around the anus, often painful and sometimes swollen or thrombosed.
  • Prolapsed Hemorrhoids: Internal hemorrhoids that protrude outside the anus.

Symptoms of piles can include rectal bleeding, itching, pain, swelling, and discomfort during bowel movements. If left untreated, piles can worsen over time, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life.

 

What Is Rubber Band Ligation?

 

Rubber band ligation (RBL) is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure used to treat internal hemorrhoids. The procedure involves placing a small rubber band at the base of the hemorrhoid, which cuts off blood supply to the swollen vein. Over several days, the hemorrhoid shrinks, withers, and eventually falls off naturally, while scar tissue forms to prevent recurrence.

 

This procedure is performed using a sigmoidoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera, which allows the doctor to visualize the hemorrhoid accurately and place the band precisely.

 

Who Needs Rubber Band Ligation?

 

Rubber band ligation is recommended for patients with:

 

  • Internal hemorrhoids causing bleeding
  • Prolapsed hemorrhoids that retract on their own
  • Persistent symptoms despite dietary changes or medications
  • Patients seeking a minimally invasive alternative to surgery

RBL is not suitable for external hemorrhoids, permanently prolapsed internal hemorrhoids or severely thrombosed piles, which may require other treatments. Our gastroenterologists evaluate each patient carefully to determine the best treatment approach.

 

How the Procedure Is Performed

 

At Global Gastro and Liver Centre, rubber band ligation is performed under strict safety protocols using modern sigmoidoscopy equipment.

 

  1. Pre-Procedure Preparation

Patients are advised to:

  • Cleanse the lower bowel using an enema or laxative as prescribed
  • Avoid food or drink as instructed before the procedure
  • Review medications with the doctor, especially blood thinners

  1. Sigmoidoscopic Examination

The doctor gently inserts a sigmoidoscope through the rectum to visualize the internal hemorrhoids. High-resolution imaging ensures accurate identification of the hemorrhoid’s base.

  1. Rubber Band Placement

A specialized device attached to the sigmoidoscope is used to place a small rubber band around the base of each hemorrhoid. This cuts off the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually detach.

  1. Completion and Recovery

The procedure usually takes 5–15 minutes, depending on the number of hemorrhoids treated. Most patients can go home the same day, with minimal discomfort. Mild cramping or a sensation of fullness in the rectum may be experienced for a few days.

 

Benefits of Rubber Band Ligation

 

Rubber band ligation offers several advantages over traditional hemorrhoid surgery:

 

  • Minimally invasive with no incisions
  • Outpatient procedure with same-day discharge
  • Quick recovery with minimal downtime
  • High success rate for internal hemorrhoids
  • Can be repeated if necessary
  • Less pain and fewer complications than surgery

 

RBL provides effective relief from bleeding, prolapse, and discomfort, allowing patients to resume daily activities quickly.

 

Safety and Possible Risks

 

RBL is generally safe and well-tolerated. Potential side effects may include:

 

  • Mild pain or discomfort in the rectum
  • Minor bleeding after the procedure
  • Sensation of fullness or urgency to pass stool
  • Rare complications such as infection or severe bleeding

 

At Global Gastro and Liver Centre, we prioritize patient safety, use sterile equipment, and provide post-procedure guidance to minimize risks.

 

After the Procedure: What to Expect

 

Following rubber band ligation:

 

  • Patients may experience mild pain, itching, or bleeding for a few days
  • Pain relief medications can be taken as advised
  • A high-fiber diet and adequate hydration are recommended
  • Straining during bowel movements should be avoided
  • Patients can usually return to normal activities within 1–2 days

Most hemorrhoids treated with RBL fall off within 1–2 weeks, and follow-up may be scheduled to assess healing and symptom improvement.

 

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

 

To prevent recurrence and maintain healthy bowel function, patients are advised to:

 

  • Consume a high-fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid constipation
  • Exercise regularly to improve bowel motility
  • Avoid prolonged sitting, straining, or heavy lifting
  • Practice good anal hygiene

 

Lifestyle modifications, combined with rubber band ligation, provide long-term relief and prevention of hemorrhoid recurrence.

 

Why Choose Global Gastro and Liver Centre?

 

At Global Gastro and Liver Centre, we combine advanced technology with expert care for effective management of piles and related conditions.

 

Our Strengths:

 

  • Experienced gastroenterologists and proctologists
  • Advanced sigmoidoscopy and RBL equipment
  • Safe, outpatient procedures with minimal discomfort
  • Personalized treatment and post-procedure guidance
  • Comprehensive care for digestive and liver health
  • Patient-friendly facilities and follow-up support

 

Our team ensures that patients receive accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term care for hemorrhoid management.

 

When to Seek Medical Attention

 

Patients should seek prompt medical attention if they experience:

  • Severe or persistent rectal bleeding
  • Intense pain or swelling after the procedure
  • Fever, chills, or signs of infection
  • Difficulty passing stool or signs of obstruction

 

Early evaluation and treatment prevent complications and ensure safe, effective management of piles.

 

Book Your Appointment Today

 

If you are suffering from internal hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding, or discomfort, contact Global Gastro and Liver Centre to schedule a consultation. Our team provides rubber band ligation via sigmoidoscopy with precision, care, and minimal downtime.

 

Relieve discomfort. Prevent bleeding. Trust Global Gastro and Liver Centre for expert proctology care.