Hemorrhoid banding, also called rubber band ligation, is a treatment method for hemorrhoids that don't respond to home treatments. It's a minimally invasive technique that involves tying the base of the hemorrhoid with a rubber band to stop blood flow to the hemorrhoid.
Hemorrhoids are pockets of swollen blood vessels inside the anus. While they can be uncomfortable, they’re relatively common in adults. In some cases, you can treat them at home.
To remove a hemorrhoid using rubber band ligation, the doctor inserts a small tool called a ligator through a lighted tube (scope) in the anal canal and grasps the hemorrhoid with forceps. Sliding the ligator's cylinder upward releases rubber bands around the base of the hemorrhoid. Rubber bands cut off the hemorrhoid's blood supply, causing it to wither and drop off.