Treating A Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization Near Me

By Author: Mason Dexter
Total Articles: 17
Comment this article

Hemorrhoids are a surprisingly common medical condition affecting millions of people. While they are often uncomfortable and inconvenient, they are rarely dangerous. For those dealing with persistent hemorrhoids, a unique, minimally invasive treatment known as Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) offers lasting relief without the need for traditional surgery

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the lower rectum or anus. Depending on their location, hemorrhoids are classified as internal (within the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). Internal hemorrhoids are generally painless but may cause rectal bleeding during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be more painful and are often accompanied by itching, swelling, and discomfort.

Causes and Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

There are several factors that contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged sitting are among the most common causes. Low-fiber diets and a sedentary lifestyle can ...
... also increase the risk.

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include:

Anal itching or irritation

Discomfort or pain during bowel movements

Swelling or lumps near the anus

Rectal bleeding, often noticed as bright red blood on toilet paper

For some, lifestyle changes such as improving dietary fiber intake or using over-the-counter treatments may help alleviate symptoms. However, when these solutions fail, more advanced interventions like HAE may be necessary.

What is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)?

HAE is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. This outpatient treatment targets the blood supply to the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and resolving the symptoms that patients experience.

During the procedure, the radiologist inserts a small catheter into an artery in the upper thigh. Guided by imaging technologies, the catheter is directed toward the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids. Tiny coils or particles are then released to block these arteries, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue. Over time, the lack of blood supply causes the hemorrhoids to shrink naturally, providing significant symptom relief.

Benefits of HAE

Unlike traditional hemorrhoid surgery, which can involve incisions and a lengthy recovery, HAE offers several advantages:

Minimally invasive: No large incisions are made.

Quick recovery: Patients typically go home the same day and resume normal activities within 24-48 hours.

High success rate: More than 90% of patients experience significant symptom relief following the procedure.

Painless: The use of local anesthesia minimizes discomfort during the treatment.

Lasting results: While lifestyle changes are recommended post-procedure, HAE’s outcomes are long-lasting and highly effective.

Recovery and Results

Recovery after HAE is relatively simple. Since there are no stitches or surgical wounds, the risk of complications like infection or bleeding is considerably lower than with traditional surgical approaches. Most patients can return to their routines within a couple of days. The results are impressive, with most individuals noticing a dramatic reduction in symptoms, including bleeding and discomfort. For those whose hemorrhoids recur over time, the procedure can be repeated if necessary.

When to Consider HAE

For people suffering from chronic or severe hemorrhoids that have not improved with conservative treatments, HAE can be a life-changing solution. By providing relief without the need for invasive surgery, it presents a modern, effective alternative that prioritizes patient comfort and rapid recovery. Speak to a qualified specialist to determine if this treatment might be the right option for you.

Precision Vascular Kentucky offers minimally invasive treatments for peripheral arterial disease, uterine fibroids, joint pain, and hemorrhoids in Louisville, KY and Southern Indiana. For more information, visit https://precisionvascularkentucky.com/about-us/.