Hemorrhoid Banding

Hemorrhoids are veins in the tissues at the opening of the anus that become enlarged. They can cause pain, bleeding and/or itching. Hemorrhoid banding is used to cure hemorrhoids when other treatments may not have worked. Banding can control bleeding.

This procedure may be considered if the patient has:

•  Second and third-degree hemorrhoids
•  Multiple hemorrhoids
•  Hemorrhoids that bleed profusely or are extremely painful
•  Internal hemorrhoids
• Thrombosed hemorrhoids (those that contain a blood clot)
• Prolapsed hemorrhoids (those that come out of the anus)

Swelling in the anal or rectal veins causes hemorrhoids. Several factors may cause this swelling including:

•  Chronic constipation or diarrhea
•  Straining during bowel movements
• Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
•  A lack of fiber in the diet

Additional information about hemorrhoids can be found at www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov.