Piles Banding: A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Piles
Introduction: Piles, the swollen blood vessels inside the anus, can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily life. While home remedies often provide relief, there are cases when they don't effectively treat the condition. In such situations, Piles banding, also known as rubber band ligation, is a minimally invasive procedure that can help. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Piles banding, its uses, preparation, procedure, recovery, risks, and the takeaway.
Uses of Piles Banding: Piles banding is a treatment method for Piles that don't respond to home remedies. When Piles become increasingly itchy, painful, and start bleeding, banding can provide effective relief. It is also recommended for individuals with a family history of colon cancer as a precautionary measure.
Preparation for Piles Banding: Before undergoing the procedure, it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications and herbal supplements you are taking. If anesthesia is involved, you may need to refrain from eating or drinking for several hours beforehand. Additionally, arranging for someone to assist you at home for a day or two following the procedure can help prevent complications caused by straining.
Procedure for Piles Banding: Piles banding is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and it can often be done in your doctor's office. Before the procedure, you may receive anesthesia or a topical anesthetic for comfort. Your doctor will insert an anoscope, a small tube with a light, into your rectum to identify the Piles. Using a ligator, they will place one or two rubber bands at the base of the Piles to cut off its blood supply. This process will be repeated if you have multiple Piles. If any blood clots are present, your doctor will remove them during the banding process. The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
Recovery from Piles Banding: Following the procedure, the Piles will dry up and fall off on their own within one to two weeks. The fallen Piles are typically expelled during bowel movements without causing discomfort. It is normal to experience some discomfort for a few days after the banding, including gas, flatulence, abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, and constipation. Your doctor may recommend taking a laxative or stool softener to alleviate these symptoms. Some bleeding may occur during the recovery period, but if it persists beyond two or three days, it is important to contact your doctor.
Risks Associated with Piles Banding: While Piles banding is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of. These include the possibility of infection, fever, chills, excessive bleeding during bowel movements, problems urinating, and recurring Piles. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your doctor promptly.
Takeaway: Piles banding is a minimally invasive treatment option for stubborn Piles that do not respond to home remedies. It offers effective relief with minimal risks. However, multiple treatments may be required for complete clearance of Piles. If Piles persist after several attempts, surgical removal may be necessary.
Don't let Piles disrupt your life. If you're experiencing persistent symptoms despite home remedies, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the possibility of Piles banding. By understanding the procedure, preparing adequately, and following the recovery guidelines, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
In Conclusion: Piles banding, also known as rubber band ligation, is a safe and effective treatment for Piles that don't respond to home remedies. This minimally invasive procedure offers relief from itching, pain, and bleeding associated with stubborn Piles. By cutting off the blood supply to the Piles with a rubber band, it causes the Piles to shrink and eventually fall off.
