OUTCOME OF RUBBER BAND LIGATION AS AN OUTPATIENT PROCEDURE FOR HEMORRHOIDS

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, quality of life, and outcomes of rubber band ligation (RBL) treatment for second- and third-degree hemorrhoids. Methods. This study is a retrospective analysis of 250 patients who visited the outpatient clinic between September 2020 and December 2021. All of the patients had second- and third-degree internal symptomatic hemorrhoids, and they were all treated as outpatients utilizing the Barron applicator and rubber band ligation. Information was gathered from the patient records. Patients were advised to follow up with the outpatient clinic every two weeks, every 1 and 6 months, and by phone every six months for a period of two years.   Results: 193 patients, or 77% of the total, were cured. After two years, a symptomatic recurrence was found in 46 patients (18%). Thirteen patients (5%) experienced minor complications related to RBL that did not necessitate hospitalization. Pain, rectal bleeding, and vasovagal symptoms were the complications (2.8, 1.2, and 0.7% of patients, respectively). Conclusion: RBL is an easy, secure, and successful operation that can be performed as an outpatient to treat symptomatic second- and third-degree hemorrhoids.