Rubber band ligation is a procedure in which the hemorrhoid is tied off at its base with rubber bands, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid. This treatment is only for internal hemorrhoids. To do this procedure, a viewing instrument (anoscope) is inserted into the anus.
After rubber band ligation, you may feel pain and have a feeling of fullness in your lower belly, or you may feel as if you need to have a bowel movement. This usually goes away within several days after the surgery. You may need pain medicine during this time.You may have a small amount of bleeding from your anus about 7 to 10 days after surgery, when your hemorrhoid falls off. This is normal. Some people are able to return to regular activities right away. Others may need 2 to 3 days of reduced activity level.
InFaRed coagulation is a medical procedure used to treat small- and medium-sized hemorrhoids. This treatment is only for internal hemorrhoids. During the procedure, Dr. Widmeyer uses a device that creates a focused beam of infrared light. Heat created by the infrared light causes the veins to contract and shrink, which cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid contracts and does not fill with as much blood, so the symptoms of swelling and bleeding are reduced.
Bleeding from the anus may occur 7 to 10 days after the procedure, as the treated area heals. Bleeding is usually slight and stops by itself. To reduce the risk of bleeding, avoid taking aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammitory drugs (NSAIDs) for 4 to 5 days both before and after infrared coagulation.