ELASTIC BAND LIGATION – DATA UPDATE

Introduction Elastic Band Ligation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat hemorrhoidal disease.

Objective To demonstrate the technique and present statistical data related to Elastic Band Ligation.

Method A prospective study followed patients with internal hemorrhoidal disease, without external hemorrhoidal disease, of any age or sex, with postoperative follow-up of Elastic Band Ligation for up to 12 months. From January to December 2023, 101 patients with internal hemorrhoidal disease, grades II and III, were treated on an outpatient basis, with the aim of addressing all areas in a single session. Technique: With the patient in Sims' position, local anesthesia (0.5 ml of lidocaine in the submucosal layer) was administered. Elastic Band Ligation was performed by aspirating the affected internal hemorrhoidal nipple just above the pectinate line. The procedure was carried out using a rubber band applicator device designed specifically for this type of procedure, with a larger caliber and a wider and longer anoscope, allowing for better visualization of the anal canal.

Preliminary Results The patients were followed up until July 2024, and the following complications were identified: significant or recurrent bleeding (8.6%), moderate to severe pain (15%), pain requiring intravenous medication (1%), tenesmus (26%), urinary retention (8.6%). After clinical follow-up of up to one year, a recurrence rate of 21% was observed. Patients with recurrence were re-treated with a new session of Elastic Band Ligation.

Conclusion Elastic Band Ligation proved to be an efficient technique with a low recurrence rate, minimal or no discomfort during or after the procedure, in addition to being cost-effective and easy to perform.

 

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No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).

Publication History

Article published online:
25 April 2025