Rubber band ligation (RBL) is a procedure where elastic bands are applied to the internal haemorrhoid at least 1 cm above the dentate line. These eventually slough off within a week. This is a painless procedure unless the band is placed too close to the dentate line. If this occurs, intense pain may result.
This convenient and relatively non-invasive procedure is successful in the short-term in over 70% of cases. Recurrence remains as high as 30%.