a supporting structure for a ligating band dispensing device adapted to be coupled to a distal end of an endoscope comprises a rigid substantially cylindrical , transparent outer support surface adapted to receive a plurality of ligating bands thereon , wherein the support surface includes a distal portion extending from a distal end thereof proximally to a distal - most ligating band receiving area . a channel extends axially through the support surface from the distal end to a proximal end thereof , wherein an abutting surface is formed along at least a portion of a circumference of the channel to define a distal - most point of penetration of an endoscope received therein . a gripping surface extending around at least a portion of a circumference of the proximal end of the channel is sized so that , when an endoscope extends into the proximal end of the channel , the gripping surface frictionally couples the support surface to the endoscope .