Which hemorrhoid treatment is commonly used for mild prolapse or intermittent bleeding?

• A. Banding
• B. Hemorrhoidectomy
• C. Sitz baths
• D. Proctoscopy

Answer: (A)

Rubber band ligation is a minimally invasive, office-based treatment that directly targets internal hemorrhoids to control mild prolapse or intermittent bleeding. It places a small elastic band at the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. Without blood flow, the hemorrhoid becomes necrotic and sloughs off, and the surrounding tissue retracts, often reducing prolapse and bleeding with minimal recovery time.

Sitz baths provide symptomatic relief and help cleanliness and comfort but don’t resolve the prolapse or ongoing bleeding by themselves. Proctoscopy is a visualization procedure used to examine the anal canal and is not a treatment. Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical removal reserved for more extensive or persistent disease, as it carries greater risks and longer recovery.