Management of hemorrhoids by rubber band ligation.

This study discusses the management of hemorrhoids by rubber band ligation. It reviews 233 rubber band ligation procedures in 148 patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids performed over a 5-year period. 72% of the patients underwent a single rubber band ligation, 22% a double band ligation and 6% a triple band ligation in one session without anesthesia. A follow-up of 18 +/- 5 months was carried out. Only three patients required hospitalization for complications. One patient was admitted for bleeding and recovered with clot evacuation, bed rest and blood transfusion. Two patients developed a band related abscess that resolved with drainage. Twenty patients (13.5%) reported pain associated with the procedure. Four patients needed subsequent surgical hemorrhoidectomy. Long-term results were good in 81.2% of the patients. This report agrees with previously published series showing the efficacy and cost containment of hemorrhoidal ligation.