We understand that haemorrhoids can have a major impact on your daily life, causing everything from discomfort and irritation to bleeding. Our experienced team at Montserrat Medical Services are committed to providing you with the most effective, minimally invasive treatments to relieve pain and help you regain your confidence.
Haemorrhoid Banding
Haemorrhoid banding, also known as rubber band ligation, is one of the most common and trusted methods to treat internal haemorrhoids safely. With compassionate care and a focus on patient wellbeing, we provide a smooth treatment journey for every patient.
Haemorrhoids are soft, fleshy lumps that form inside the back passage (anus) and have a rich blood supply. They can cause a wide range of symptoms, from minor discomfort to severe pain, depending on their size and location. Internal haemorrhoids, found inside the anal canal, are usually painless but can cause bleeding during bowel movements. External haemorrhoids appear outside the anus and can be more painful, especially if a blood clot (thrombosis) forms.
A healthy diet rich in fibre and plenty of regular exercise can help prevent haemorrhoids from forming and reduce the symptoms if they do occur. However, when lifestyle changes are not enough, medical treatments like haemorrhoid banding can be a good solution.
What is Rubber Band Ligation?
Rubber band ligation is a common procedure to treat internal haemorrhoids where a small rubber band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Without a blood supply, the haemorrhoidal tissue shrinks, dies and falls off within a few days.
It’s a very safe procedure that can be easily performed in a doctor’s office without the need for general anaesthesia or a stay in hospital. Because it focuses on internal haemorrhoids, it targets the tissue above the dentate line where there are fewer pain-sensitive nerve endings.
Rubber band ligation is a solid treatment with a high rate of success. It can be performed multiple times if necessary, particularly for patients who have multiple haemorrhoids. It’s a simple, inexpensive method for restoring your comfort and treating symptoms without needing major surgery.
Haemorrhoid Banding Procedure
The haemorrhoid banding procedure at Montserrat is performed by experienced specialists using the latest techniques. The process itself is very straightforward and usually only takes a few minutes.
A special instrument called a ‘ligator’ is inserted into the anal canal, which the doctor uses to grasp the haemorrhoid and place a tiny rubber band around its base, just above the dentate line. The haemorrhoid is then able to lose its blood supply without causing major pain.
Most patients will experience mild pressure or slight discomfort during the banding process, but it should be tolerable without sedation or anaesthesia. Following the procedure, you can return to your normal activities, although you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting, straining during bowel movements or intense physical activity for a few days.
The haemorrhoid and rubber band usually fall off during a bowel movement within one to two weeks. You might notice minor bleeding when this happens, but it is entirely normal and expected.
The Role of a Rubber Band in Treatment
Made from latex or silicone, the rubber band is durable and safe for internal use. By placing the band at the base of the haemorrhoid, the blood flow is cut off and the tissue undergoes a controlled process of necrosis (tissue death) and natural detachment.
In cases where patients have multiple haemorrhoids, several bands can be applied during one or multiple sessions. Banding of haemorrhoids can be repeated as well, if necessary.
Bear in mind that the rubber band technique is perfect for treating internal haemorrhoids but is less effective for external haemorrhoids. The good news is that by managing internal haemorrhoids early, patients can avoid more complicated surgical procedures later.
Why Choose Montserrat?
Montserrat Medical Services has specialists who are highly skilled in haemorrhoid banding and other non-surgical and surgical treatments. We can personalise your care based on your symptoms and haemorrhoid grade.
Our friendly team is all about clear communication, comprehensive diagnosis and patient education throughout the entire process – so you will always know about your treatment options and feel supported along the way. With high-quality equipment and a first grade surgical environment, Montserrat is a trusted name in managing haemorrhoids and other gastrointestinal conditions.
Our experienced team of healthcare professionals are here to provide you with personalised care and support.
Types of Haemorrhoids
Internal haemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids
Haemorrhoid grade
Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, above the dentate line. They are usually painless because the area lacks pain-sensitive nerves. Some of the more common symptoms of internal haemorrhoids include bright red bleeding during bowel movements, a sensation of incomplete evacuation or prolapse (when the haemorrhoid protrudes outside the anus temporarily or permanently).
External haemorrhoids develop outside the anal canal, near the anus, and they can be painful if they become thrombosed (i.e. develop a blood clot). Symptoms include swelling, pain, irritation and sometimes bleeding.
Internal and external haemorrhoids are graded based on severity:
- Grade I: Small swellings inside the anal canal that do not prolapse.
- Grade II: Prolapse during straining but retract on their own.
- Grade III: Prolapse with straining and need manual reduction.
- Grade IV: Permanently prolapsed and cannot be manually reduced.
Higher-grade haemorrhoids usually need more serious treatments, including surgical options.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While minor haemorrhoid symptoms can sometimes be managed with diet, lifestyle changes and home remedies (e.g. ice packs and pharmaceutical creams), you should seek out medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain during bowel movements.
- Persistent bleeding.
- Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention).
- Signs of infection (e.g. fever or increased pain).
- Symptoms that don’t improve with conservative measures.
Getting diagnosed and treated as soon as possible is the best way to reduce the risk of complications and improve the success rate for procedures like haemorrhoid banding.
Book a Consultation
If you’re experiencing symptoms of haemorrhoids and would like expert medical advice, contact Montserrat Medical Services today. Our team will walk you through the diagnosis and discuss your options for treatment. Call (07) 3833 6701 or contact our helpful team today to book your consultation and take the first step towards a more comfortable, symptom-free life.
Recovery
Recovery from haemorrhoid banding is usually quick and easy. Most patients can go back to their normal daily activities within a day or two. However, some post-procedure care tips to keep in mind are:
- Avoid constipation by eating a high-fibre diet and staying well hydrated throughout the day.
- Use stool softeners if they are recommended by your doctor.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few days.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if you are dealing with mild discomfort.
- Practise good anal hygiene to prevent irritation or infection.
- Attend any follow-up appointments to monitor how your body is healing.
With proper care, most patients will experience complete relief from symptoms within a few weeks.
Meet our Haemorrhoid Banding Specialist
Dr Terrence Tan
Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist | M.B., B.S., FRACP, PH.D
No Gap Doctor
Languages: English & Malay
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients will experience only mild discomfort during and after the procedure. Pain is usually temporary and manageable with over-the-counter medications. Severe pain is rare, but if this happens then speak to your doctor straight away.
Recovery can take anywhere from a few days to a week. You can resume your usual activities quickly, but avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a few days.
Yes, haemorrhoid banding is a common treatment for internal piles (haemorrhoids), especially for Grades I to III.
Rubber band ligation has a high success rate, with approximately 80% of patients reporting complete resolution or significant improvement in their symptoms. These figures are based on global studies conducted in the United States, including research published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) PMC9021858 and PMC9021858. Some patients may require additional treatments to achieve the best outcome.