Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats symptomatic hemorrhoids. In contrast to traditional surgical methods, HAE treats blood vessels supplying blood to the hemorrhoids, which then helps direct the relief of bleeding, swelling, and pain.
HAE is an invasive procedure that ensures no complications and a short recovery time. HAE can benefit patients with significant, persistent symptoms after conservative treatment or patients for whom hemorrhoid surgery is not a preferred choice.
What is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization?
Hemorrhoid artery embolization is a radiological procedure that blocks the arteries supplying blood to hemorrhoid tissue. This is done by using small catheters advanced through the blood vessels and utilizing imaging methods to guide the catheter. When the arteries are visualized, small particles are injected into the arteries to stop or hinder the blood flow to the hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink over time.
- Minimally invasive and non-surgical.
- Performed under local anesthesia
- Primarily internal hemorrhoids.
- Hemorrhoid symptoms include bleeding, itching, and prolapse.
- Takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
Benefits of Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) Treatment
There are numerous benefits of hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) treatment as compared to traditional treatments for the patient who prefers minimal downtime and discomfort. Being a minimally invasive procedure, many patients can get back to normal activities within a few days. HAE also has a lower postoperative pain level and a lower rate of infection, thus leading to faster recovery and less pain.
- No incisions or stitches
- Less pain and faster recovery
- An outpatient procedure that results in discharge the same day
- Reduced risk of complications
- Highly effective in relieving symptoms
Who is a Candidate for HAE?
HAE is generally an appropriate treatment for patients with Grade I, II, or III internal hemorrhoids who have not benefited from conservative treatments (dietary changes, medications, or rubber band ligation) or patients who have alternative health conditions.
The patient candidates for HAE tend to have:
- Rectal bleeding or episodes of prolapse
- Non-invasive treatment failure
- A strong preference for a non-surgical option
- Are present with a higher risk of surgery (age, cardiac issues)
- Experiencing a lot of prosthetic discomfort exacerbates their quality of life substantially.
What is the Procedure?
The HAE procedure is carried out in a special suite under the supervision of an interventional radiologist. Radiologists utilize X-rays and navigate a small catheter into the body. This helps to move the catheter to the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoids. Embolization agents are released during the procedure to help cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoids. This approach makes them shrink over time.
Recovery and Expected Outcomes
Most people experience a quick and uncomplicated recovery following HAE. Most get back to work in a few days after the procedure, and they may also start to experience significant relief from their symptoms within weeks. It is normal to experience mild pain or spotting in the post-procedure days. Follow-up appointments are also important for assessment of healing and to determine if the procedure’s outcomes are superlative.