What procedure is most commonly used for treating hemorrhoids when conservative measures fail?

Rubber band ligation is recognized as the most commonly utilized procedure for the treatment of hemorrhoids when conservative measures, such as dietary changes and topical treatments, do not yield sufficient relief. This technique involves placing a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid, leading to its reduction in blood supply. Over time, the hemorrhoid will shrink and ultimately fall off due to lack of circulation.

Rubber band ligation is favored for its effectiveness in addressing both internal and external hemorrhoids and is associated with a relatively low complication rate. Commonly performed in an outpatient setting, it offers a quick recovery and allows patients to return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.

In contrast, other options, while valid treatments for certain types or stages of hemorrhoids, might not be as commonly used or suitable as the first-line intervention for moderate to severe cases where conservative treatment has failed. For instance, sclerotherapy is an option but is generally less effective than rubber band ligation and may not yield the same level of symptom relief. Infrared coagulation serves as a useful method for smaller, less severe hemorrhoids but is not as widely applied for more significant hemorrhoids. A hemorrhoidectomy, while definitive and effective, is more invasive and often