Solo operated haemorrhoid ligator rectoscope. A report on 200 consecutive bandings.

A new solo operated haemorrhoid ligator rectoscope is described by the author. This new ligator consists of a double barreled cone, one fitting precisely inside the other. The device functions as a rectoscope to visualize the wall of the ano-rectum and at the same time the distal end of the interior barrel carries the rubber band and functions as the ligator. After the operator grasps the pile and pulls it into the barrel with a tenaculum, he discharges the band by retracting the internal barrel with a simple flick of the thumb. The tool is greatly simplified and more efficient than prior art. It is easy to operate and clean. The view through the rectoscope is clear and unobstructed. The author also reports on a retrospective analysis of his experience with 200 consecutive bandings of symptomatic internal haemorrhoids. The tool proved to be an effective way of rubberbanding haemorrhoids and similar clinical results as with other rubber band devices were attained, with the added bonus that whenever indicated the device allows for a larger amount of tissue to be banded, which may be desirable when treating mucosal prolapse.