This procedure is preferable when a patient has enlarged veins (or varices). It happens due to the enlargement of veins formation on the esophagus. These veins have thin walls and contain high blood pressure. If untreated, these veins could burst out and cause harm to your body.
The procedure is done along with upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. Through IV, the doctor will give medicine and anesthetic. A thin tube will be passed through your mouth till it reaches the esophagus.
The doctor will monitor the condition of enlarged veins and then stop the blood supply using bands. The veins disappear and thus heals your esophagus within a week.