What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. By Age 50, about half of the population will have experienced this sometimes painful condition, which results from an increase in pressure inside the veins of the rectum. Common causes include constipation, pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, heavy lifting, sitting for long periods and diarrhea.
Although a frequently neglected area of healthcare, more than 50% of the population is afflicted with hemorrhoids and while the signs and symptoms may come and go, it is best to treat the underlying source to prevent the condition from worsening.
What is Hemorrhoid Banding?
This disposable hemorrhoid removal procedure is safe, painless and takes less than 5 minutes; most patients return to normal activities the same day. Patients typically require 3 treatments at two week intervals, and 99% of patients are able to avoid surgery using this technology.
We have been utilizing rubber band ligation for some time, but have now started to offer treatment using the patented CRH-O’Regan System TM new technology that makes the procedure quicker and more comfortable for our patients.
The O’Regan method uses a small rubber band to strangle the base of the swollen venin, which cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. This causes the banded tissue to shrink and fall off along with the rubber band. Typically, this happens within a few days after your appointment during a routine trip to the toilet and you may not even notice when this happens.
The band placement is relatively painless due to this refined technique and does not require anesthesia or other numbing agents. You may experience a dull ache or sense of fullness in the rectum within the first 24 hours, but this can generally be relieved by over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients can return to work the same day.
