Infrared Coagulation (IRC) or Rubber Band Ligation

Infrared Coagulation (IRC) is a widely used method for treating haemorrhoids and is usually performed immediately after a colonoscopy while the patient is still sedated.  The procedure involves applying a probe which delivers a burst of infrared light above the haemorrhoid.  This cuts off the blood supply, compressing and sealing the haemorrhoid veins.  IRC is relatively painless, especially when performed in conjunction with colonoscopy.

Further Reading

Gupta, P.J. (2003).  Infrared coagulation versus rubber band ligation in early stage haemorrhoids. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 36(10): 1433-1439.  doi: 10.1590/S0100-879X2003001000022.

Link to Publication: https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0100-879X2003001000022&lang=en

Gupta, P.J. (2004). Infrared coagulation: a preferred option in treating early haemorrhoids. Acta Cirúrgica Brasileira, 19(1): 74-78.

Link to Publication: https://www.scielo.br/pdf/acb/v19n1/v19n1a13.pdf

Nikshoar, M.R., Maleki, Z. & Honar, B.N. (2018). The Clinical Efficacy of Intrared Photcoagulation Versus Closed Hemorrhoidectomy in Treatment of Hemorrhoid. Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences, 9(1): 23-26.  Doi: 10.15171/jlms.2018.06

Link to Publication: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5775951/