Specialties
Hemorrhoidal Banding at St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases
Hemorrhoids are a common and often painful condition that affects millions of adults, causing symptoms like rectal bleeding, itching, swelling, and discomfort. At St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases, Dr. Antwan Atia offers a minimally invasive and highly effective treatment known as hemorrhoidal banding. With convenient locations in Toledo, Maumee, and Perrysburg, Ohio, our practice provides expert care and relief for patients suffering from hemorrhoids.
What Is Hemorrhoidal Banding?
Hemorrhoidal banding, also known as rubber band ligation, is a non-surgical procedure used to treat internal hemorrhoids. During this quick, in-office treatment, Dr. Atia places a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. Within a few days, the hemorrhoid shrinks, dies, and falls off, typically during a bowel movement. This technique is safe, effective, and allows patients to return to normal activities with minimal downtime.
Who Is a Candidate for Hemorrhoidal Banding?
Hemorrhoidal banding is most effective for patients with internal hemorrhoids that cause bleeding, prolapse, or chronic irritation. It is generally not used for external hemorrhoids. If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatments or dietary changes without relief, hemorrhoidal banding may be the next step. Dr. Atia performs a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of treatment based on your symptoms and the severity of the hemorrhoids.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The hemorrhoidal banding procedure is performed in our office and typically takes only a few minutes. Using a specialized instrument called a ligator, Dr. Atia applies a rubber band to the base of the hemorrhoid. The procedure is virtually painless because the area where the band is placed lacks pain-sensitive nerve endings. Patients can usually resume normal activities the same day, though mild discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the rectum may occur for a short time.
Benefits of Hemorrhoidal Banding
Hemorrhoidal banding offers several benefits over traditional surgical methods. It is less invasive, does not require anesthesia or incisions, and has a much shorter recovery time. Most importantly, it provides long-lasting relief from hemorrhoid symptoms. At St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases, Dr. Atia has helped many patients throughout Toledo, Maumee, and Perrysburg regain their comfort and quality of life with this simple, effective procedure.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following hemorrhoidal banding, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for a day or two and to eat a high-fiber diet to maintain soft stools. Over-the-counter pain relievers and sitz baths can help manage any minor discomfort. Dr. Atia provides detailed aftercare instructions and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and determine if additional banding sessions are needed, as some patients may require treatment of multiple hemorrhoids over time.
Preventing Future Hemorrhoids
In addition to treatment, St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases emphasizes prevention. Dr. Atia works with patients to develop strategies for reducing the likelihood of future hemorrhoids, including improving bowel habits, increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting or straining during bowel movements. By addressing both the symptoms and the root causes, we aim to provide long-term solutions for your digestive health.
Schedule Your Hemorrhoid Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids that aren’t improving with conservative care, hemorrhoidal banding may be the right solution. Dr. Antwan Atia and the experienced team at St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases are here to help. Contact our offices in Toledo, Maumee, or Perrysburg, Ohio today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how this minimally invasive procedure can bring lasting relief.