Colonoscopy with hemorrhoid banding is a procedure used to treat hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the lower part of the rectum or anus. Hemorrhoids can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort, and are often a result of increased pressure in the veins due to straining, constipation, or pregnancy. Hemorrhoid banding is an effective treatment to relieve symptoms and prevent complications caused by hemorrhoids.
Colonoscopy w/ Hemorrhoid Banding Q&A
What is Colonoscopy with Hemorrhoid Banding Used For?
- Relieving Pain and Discomfort
- Stopping Bleeding
- Preventing Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
- Managing recurrent Hemorrhoids
How is Colonoscopy with Hemorrhoid Banding performed?
The preparation for this procedure is similar to that of a colonoscopy. You must follow a liquid diet the day before. At 5 PM on the day prior to your procedure, you will begin taking a prescribed laxative, which has been sent to your pharmacy. Another dose of the laxative will be taken 5 hours before your scheduled procedure.
The procedure itself takes approximately 15-20 minutes. You will receive a sedative to help you relax and minimize discomfort. A flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) will be inserted through the anus and guided through the colon to check for polyps or other abnormalities. The scope will also assess the rectum, where the hemorrhoids are located. Once identified, small rubber bands will be placed around the base of each hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. This causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually fall off.
After the procedure, you will be monitored for any complications before being discharged.
What happens after a Colonoscopy with Hemorrhoid Banding procedure?
After the colonoscopy, you will stay in the recovery area for 1–2 hours while the sedative wears off. You may feel mild bloating, cramping or gas due to air used during the procedure. You may also feel pressure or discomfort in the rectal area.
First 24-48 hours following banding procedure:
Mild pain or discomfort discomfort can be alleviated with Tylenol. Avoid NSAIDs (Ibuprofen) as it can increase risk of bleeding.
Minimal bleeding: spotting is common, especially after a bowel movement
Feeling of urgency: sensation that you feel like you need to have a bowel movement, even if you don’t
The hemorrhoid bands will fall off within 3-10 days of procedure.
Seek medical attention if you experience heavy or persistent rectal bleeding, severe pain that does not improve with medication, signs of infection (fever, chills) or difficulty passing stool.
Tips for recovering after Hemorrhoid Banding procedure
- Hydrate well: Drink plenty of fluid
- High fiber diet: Eat fiber-rich foods (vegetables, whole grains, fruits) or take a fiber supplement (Psyllium, Metamucil)
- Avoid straining: Do not strain during a bowel movement
- Use stool softeners: like Docusate to prevent hard stools
- Warm Sitz Bath: Soak in warm water with Epson salt for 10-15 minutes a few times a day to soothe discomfort