HEMORRHOID TREATMENT: HEMORRHOIDAL ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (HAE)

How Hemorrhoid Embolization Works

Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat internal hemorrhoids by reducing blood flow to the affected area. Here’s how the process works:

1. Accessing the Artery: The procedure begins with the physician making a small puncture in the skin, typically in the wrist or groin, to access a blood vessel. This is done under local anesthesia and sedation to ensure patient comfort 
    
2. Guiding the Catheter: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is then guided through the blood vessels to the arteries supplying the hemorrhoids. This is done using real-time imaging techniques, such as fluoroscopy, which allows the physician to visualize the blood vessels and identify the specific branches that need to be treated 
    
3. Embolization: Once the appropriate arteries are located, the physician injects small metallic coils or microspheres into these vessels. These embolization agents block blood flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and alleviating symptoms such as bleeding and discomfort 
    
4. Recovery: The entire procedure typically takes about one to two hours, and patients can often go home the same day. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a few days, making it a convenient option compared to traditional surgical methods 

Benefits of Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization

• Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional surgery, HAE does not involve large incisions or significant recovery time.
• Preservation of Anal Function: The procedure preserves anal continence and does not create rectal wounds, which reduces the risk of complications
• High Success Rate: Studies indicate that over 90% of patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms following the procedure.
• Outpatient Procedure: HAE can be performed in an outpatient setting, allowing for a quick return to daily activities.

This procedure can be performed in our outpatient hemorrhoid clinics. A hemorrhoid doctor uses a local anesthetic to numb the area being treated. Then, using live ultrasound image guidance, they position a catheter into the leg to reach the blood vessels that supply the rectum. Once positioned, tiny coils are slowly released, blocking the blood supply to the hemorrhoids and stopping the bleeding.

Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization Procedure: What to Expect

Hemorrhoidal artery embolization is a relatively short procedure that allows patients to go home on the same day as their treatment. 

Here’s what to expect before, during, and after HAE:

Initial Consultation

Before the procedure, you will meet with the interventional radiologist to discuss the process, address any questions, and review your medical history. 

The Day of the Procedure

Bring someone with you to your treatment appointment to accompany you home. Also, wear loose clothing or bring comfortable clothing to change into after the procedure. 

When you arrive at our hemorrhoid treatment center, you’ll be brought to your private treatment room, where you can change into a medical gown. When you’re ready to begin, your doctor will administer a local anesthetic and mild sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure. 

HAE takes about 45 minutes. You can expect to be at our office for around 2 hours. 

Recovery After Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization

After your treatment, you’ll relax in our recovery room. Your doctor will check on you to ensure you’re recovering properly and to discharge you when you’re ready. 

You may experience some discomfort for up to a week after the procedure. Your doctor will recommend pain relief treatments, including over-the-counter medication and topical anti-inflammatory cream or gel. 

For the first few days after your hemorrhoid embolization, you should avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise. Most people can return to work later that day or the following morning.