Hemorrhoid Banding (Rubber Band Ligation, RBL)

A short guide for patients at Valley Gastroenterology

What is it?

A quick, in‑clinic procedure that treats internal hemorrhoids by placing a small rubber band at the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. The banded tissue shrinks and falls off within 7–10 days, and the area heals.

Who is it for?

  • Symptomatic internal hemorrhoids (bleeding, prolapse, irritation)
  • Not usually for external hemorrhoids or fissures
  • Often done after trying fiber, fluids, stool softeners, and topical therapies

Final eligibility is individualized after evaluation.

How to prepare

  • Eating/Drinking: You can usually eat and drink normally—no sedation is typically needed.
  • Medications: Tell us about blood thinners, antiplatelets, and bleeding disorders. Do not stop any medication without our guidance; we’ll coordinate a safe plan if needed.
  • Bowel routine: Aim for soft, regular stools (fiber supplement + hydration).
  • Driver: Not required unless you receive sedation for another reason.

What to expect (day of)

  1. Brief exam and consent
  1. Band placement takes 1–5 minutes per hemorrhoid
  1. You may feel pressure or a sense of fullness; this usually eases within a few hours
  1. Most patients return to normal activities the same day

Many patients need 2–3 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart, to treat all problem areas.

After you go home

  • Expect mild pressure/aching for 24–48 hours; use acetaminophen. Avoid NSAIDs unless cleared by your clinician.
  • Light bleeding or mucus is common, especially 7–10 days when the band falls off.
  • Sitz baths 10–15 minutes, 1–2 times daily, can help comfort.
  • Prevent straining: fiber goal 25–30 g/day, stool softener as directed, stay hydrated.
  • Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for 24–48 hours.

Call us urgently for severe/worsening pain, heavy bleeding, fever >101°F, chills, inability to urinate, or spreading pelvic pain.

Risks (uncommon)

Pain, bleeding, urinary urgency/retention, thrombosed external hemorrhoid, infection/abscess (rare but serious), need for additional treatments.

Alternatives

  • Medical therapy: fiber, stool softeners, topical treatments
  • Infrared coagulation (IRC) or sclerotherapy (office procedures)
  • Surgery (hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy) for advanced disease

Alaska‑specific travel note

We monitor Mat‑Su weather and road conditions. If travel is unsafe, we’ll reschedule without penalty and prioritize your next available slot.

Scheduling & contact:

Valley Gastroenterology

3190 E Meridian Park Loop, Suite 206

Wasilla, Alaska 99654

Phone: (907) 373-2544

Fax: (844) 689-4240

Web: ValleyGastroAK.com