Non-surgical alternatives such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and infrared coagulation treat internal haemorrhoids without the need for general anaesthesia. These clinic-based procedures effectively manage Grade 1 to 3 haemorrhoids by cutting off blood supply, leading to tissue shrinkage and significantly less downtime than a traditional haemorrhoidectomy.
- Rubber band ligation: A small band cuts blood supply so the tissue shrivels within days.
- Injection sclerotherapy: Specialists inject a chemical solution to scar and shrink the haemorrhoidal vessels.
- Infrared coagulation: Brief bursts of infrared light create scar tissue to block blood flow.
- Target patient group: These office-based options primarily treat bleeding and internal prolapse, not external cases.
- Treatment setting: Procedures take place in clinics like Sikarin Hospital, often requiring no hospital stay.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While non-surgical options like banding are popular, data shows they often require multiple sessions for a lasting result. In Thailand, established centres like Bumrungrad International Hospital serve over 1 million patients annually, offering both advanced colorectal surgery and minimally invasive therapies under one roof. Choosing a clinic that specialises in gastroenterology ensures that if a non-surgical approach fails, a specialist surgeon is already familiar with the case history.
Patient Consensus: Patients find that banding and sclerotherapy provide immediate relief from bleeding, though they highlight that increasing fibre and hydration is vital to prevent any recurrence. In Thailand, the convenience of quick clinic visits allows many to return to their holiday activities almost immediately after treatment.