Simultaneous, combined sclerotherapy and rubber band ligation of haemorrhoids

We present the results of combined, simultaneous application of sclerotherapy and rubber band ligation during one session in patients with symptomatic second-degree haemorrhoids. Between 1993 and 1996, 83 consecutive outpatients with second-degree haemorrhoids underwent simultaneous rubber band ligation of larger (primary) piles and sclerotherapy of smaller (secondary) piles. The treatment was successful, and the symptoms were controlled in 88% of the patients. The overall incidence of complications was 9.2%, but these were minor and transient. The simultaneous, combined sclerotherapy and rubber band ligation of second-degree haemorrhoids is a simple, safe, and effective method, with only minor and transient complications. Received: 2 December 1998 / Accepted in revised form: 3 March 1999