Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)

Hemorrhoids can range from an uncomfortable, one-time experience to recurring flare-ups that cause bleeding, pain, and serious potential complications. For patients with chronic internal hemorrhoids, HAE offers a safe, minimally invasive hemorrhoid treatment option that’s effective in over 80% of cases.¹

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Who Qualifies for HAE? | Preparation | What to Expect

Is HAE right for me?

Who Qualifies for HAE?

HAE is most beneficial for patients with Grade 1-3 internal hemorrhoids who have not found relief from conservative treatments. This non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment may be used as an alternative to hemorrhoid banding or sclerotherapy. While successful hemorrhoid artery embolization may prevent the need for surgery later on, it is not a replacement for surgery for patients with Grade 4 hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoid Embolization Procedure Preparation

The first step towards an HAE procedure is scheduling a consultation with an interventional radiologist at our clinic in New Jersey. Our specialists will go over your diagnosis, answer all of your questions, and recommend hemorrhoid embolization if it’s right for you.

The day before your procedure, you’ll receive specific instructions to follow. These may include when to stop eating and drinking and which medications you may need to pause. Our office will also let you know when to arrive for your procedure and make sure you have someone ready to drive you home afterwards.

At the clinic, you’ll change into a medical gown. The care team will give you a mild sedative to keep you calm and relaxed throughout the procedure.

HAE Technique Steps

The interventional radiologist makes a small incision in the groin area after applying local anesthesia.
Using X-ray images with fluoroscopy, the doctor moves a small tube called a catheter to the superior rectal artery (SRA).
The doctor releases tiny particles or places metal coils into the blood vessels of the hemorrhoid. These block blood flow to the hemorrhoid, depriving it of oxygen. Without oxygen, the hemorrhoid shrinks over time, alleviating symptoms like bleeding and prolapse. This process is repeated for each hemorrhoid.
The provider removes the catheter and stitches the incision closed.
The patient recovers under close monitoring for a short while before going home.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment

No wounds created, resulting in a lower infection risk
Preserves anal continence by leaving tissues in place²
No general anesthesia needed
Same-day discharge in most cases
Faster recovery with minimal after care needed
Low post-procedure pain

Hemorrhoid Embolization Recovery

Recovering after hemorrhoid embolization only takes a few days. Most patients go home the same day as their procedure and are able to return to their daily activities within a week. Some discomfort can occur, but is usually controlled with over-the-counter pain medications.

Schedule a Consultation for HAE

The interventional radiologists at our NJ clinic are specialized in performing HAE procedures. We’ll work with you and your doctor to understand your symptoms and make informed treatment recommendations.

Talk to Us

Take our quiz below to see if you qualify for HAE

Fill out your information below to schedule a consultation with the interventional radiologists of URVI.

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