Haemorrhoid banding typically causes minimal pain during the procedure itself because the bands are placed on tissue that has few pain-sensitive nerve endings. You may feel a brief sensation of pressure, fullness, or mild discomfort when the band is applied. After the procedure, most patients experience a feeling of pressure or mild discomfort in the rectal area for 24-48 hours, which is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. Some patients may experience more significant pain, particularly if the band is placed too close to the dentate line (the transition zone between the rectum and anal canal). If you experience severe or increasing pain after the procedure, contact your doctor immediately as this could indicate a complication. Most patients find the discomfort from banding significantly less than that of surgical haemorrhoidectomy and are able to return to normal activities the same or next day.

The number of banding sessions required depends on several factors including the number, size, and grade of your haemorrhoids. For patients with multiple haemorrhoids, typically only 1-2 haemorrhoids are treated per session to minimize discomfort and complications. Most patients require 2-4 sessions in total, spaced approximately 2-4 weeks apart to allow for healing between treatments. Grade II haemorrhoids (those that prolapse but return spontaneously) may require fewer sessions than Grade III haemorrhoids (those that prolapse and require manual reduction). Your doctor will assess your specific condition during the initial examination and develop a personalized treatment plan. After completing the recommended sessions, most patients experience long-term relief, though some may require maintenance treatments if haemorrhoids recur. Follow-up appointments are important to evaluate the effectiveness of each treatment and determine if additional sessions are necessary.

Haemorrhoid banding has proven to be highly effective, particularly for grade II and III haemorrhoids. Clinical studies show success rates of approximately 70-80% for complete resolution of symptoms. For grade II haemorrhoids, success rates are even higher at 80-90%. The procedure is less effective for grade IV haemorrhoids (permanently prolapsed), where success rates drop to 50-60%, and these cases may ultimately require surgical intervention. Approximately 10-20% of patients experience recurrence within 5 years, though these can typically be treated with additional banding sessions. Success rates are highest when patients follow post-procedure care instructions and make recommended lifestyle changes to reduce straining and constipation. Compared to other non-surgical treatments like sclerotherapy or infrared coagulation, banding generally shows superior long-term results. While surgical haemorrhoidectomy has slightly higher long-term success rates (90-95%), it involves significantly more pain and longer recovery times, making banding the preferred first-line treatment for most patients with grade II-III haemorrhoids.

While haemorrhoid banding is generally safe, potential complications include: pain (10-15% of patients experience significant pain, especially if the band is placed too close to the dentate line); bleeding (minor bleeding is common when the band and haemorrhoid fall off after 5-10 days, but severe bleeding occurs in less than 1% of cases); infection (rare but serious, occurring in approximately 0.05% of cases); urinary retention (difficulty urinating affects about 1% of patients, more common in males); band slippage (premature dislodging of the band before the haemorrhoid is treated); vasovagal response (temporary drop in heart rate and blood pressure causing lightheadedness in about 1-3% of patients); and very rarely, pelvic sepsis (a life-threatening infection requiring immediate medical attention). Most complications are minor and self-limiting. The risk of complications increases when multiple haemorrhoids are banded in a single session. Patients with bleeding disorders, taking blood thinners, or with compromised immune systems may have higher risks and require special consideration. Our specialists carefully screen patients to minimize these risks and provide detailed instructions for recognizing potential complications.

Preparation for haemorrhoid banding is relatively simple. No bowel preparation or enema is typically required, though your doctor may recommend a gentle bowel movement before the procedure. Continue your regular diet unless specifically instructed otherwise. Inform your doctor about all medications you take, particularly blood thinners (including aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, and direct oral anticoagulants), as these may need to be temporarily adjusted. You should also disclose any allergies, medical conditions, or previous anorectal procedures. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure if sedation will be used, though most banding procedures are performed without sedation. Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting and takes only 5-10 minutes. You'll be able to return home immediately afterward and can usually resume normal activities the same day, though you should avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

To prevent haemorrhoid recurrence after banding, several lifestyle modifications are recommended: increase dietary fiber intake to 25-35 grams daily through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes; stay well-hydrated by drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily; avoid straining during bowel movements and limit time spent on the toilet (no more than 5 minutes); establish a regular bowel routine, ideally after breakfast when the gastrocolic reflex is strongest; incorporate regular moderate exercise to promote healthy bowel function; avoid heavy lifting which increases abdominal pressure; maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on rectal veins; use a footstool during bowel movements to create a squatting position that straightens the anorectal angle; and respond promptly to the urge to defecate rather than delaying bowel movements. If constipation occurs, address it quickly with appropriate fiber supplements or mild laxatives as recommended by your doctor. For patients with desk jobs, using a cushion and taking regular breaks to stand and walk can help reduce pressure on the rectal area. These lifestyle changes not only help prevent haemorrhoid recurrence but also promote overall colorectal health.