The Effectiveness of Elastic Rubber Band Ligation Technique in Cases of Internal Haemorrhoids

Abstract

Objective: To study the effectiveness of the elastic rubber band ligation technique in cases of internal haemorrhoids. 
Study Design: A prospective study. 
Place and duration of study:  This study was conducted at Jinnah postgraduate medical center Karachi during 
2007-2008.  
Materials and Methods: A total of 70 patients of varying degrees haemorrhoids of either sex were taken randomly. 
In 20 out of the 70 cases open Haemorrhoidectomy was performed by low ligation and excision (after due 
preparation of the patients) and in 50 cases elastic rubber band technique was performed. Tablet Bisacodyl 4-6 
tablets stat were given to the patients at night before the procedure. No anesthesia was used. This procedure was 
performed in Left lateral position or in knee-elbow/jack-knife position.  
Results: Patients with elastic rubber band ligation method were discharged at the same day (average stay was only 
for the procedure), with minimum complains, and post operative complications were found negligible (Pain 28, 
haemorrhage 6%, discomfort 14%). In contrast average stay in the cases of Haemorrhoidectomy was 5 – 26 days 
and complications ranged between pain and haemorrhage (95%), discharge (15%), retention of urine (10%) and 
faecal incontinence (15%). No case of faecal incontinence and retention of urine was observed in cases of elastic 
rubber band ligation technique.            
Conclusion: Elastic rubber band ligation as an Out Patient procedure, is effective, economical easily performable, 
with minimum complications and is without hazards of anaesthesia.