Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)
A Minimally Invasive Option for Bleeding Internal Hemorrhoids. HAE is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces hemorrhoid symptoms by blocking the arteries supplying blood to internal hemorrhoids. This reduces swelling, bleeding, and pressure—without removing tissue or cutting into the rectum.
Contact AVC to see if you are a candidate for Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE).
Overview of Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)
Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside the rectum that can cause painless but frequent rectal bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Over time, these hemorrhoids can enlarge, bleed more often, and significantly affect your quality of life.
Symptoms may include:
- Bright red blood in the toilet or on toilet paper
- Mucus discharge or rectal fullness
- Prolapse (hemorrhoid tissue pushing outside the anus)
- Discomfort, itching, or pressure
If dietary changes, fiber, creams, or rubber band ligation haven’t resolved the problem—and you want to avoid surgery—Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) may offer a non-surgical alternative.
What Is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization?
HAE is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces hemorrhoid symptoms by blocking the arteries supplying blood to internal hemorrhoids. This reduces swelling, bleeding, and pressure—without removing tissue or cutting into the rectum.
The procedure specifically targets the superior rectal arteries, which feed the internal hemorrhoidal cushions. By safely limiting their blood flow, HAE allows the hemorrhoids to shrink and heal naturally.
Benefits of Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization
- Minimally invasive – No cutting, stapling, or stitches
- Preserves anal anatomy – Unlike surgery, it avoids damage to muscles or tissue
- Quick recovery – Most return to daily activities in 24–48 hours
- Reduced bleeding – Often noticeable within days
- Low complication rate
- Performed without general anesthesia
- Outpatient treatment – No hospital stay required
HAE is ideal for patients with chronic or recurrent rectal bleeding from internal hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to conservative treatments.
The HAE Procedure
Performed by our expert interventional specialists, HAE is quick, precise, and safe.
1. Evaluation & Imaging
You’ll undergo a full consultation and exam. Imaging (such as CT angiography or ultrasound) may be used to map the blood vessels feeding your hemorrhoids.
2. The Procedure
- You’ll receive local anesthesia at the access site (typically the groin or wrist)
- A catheter is inserted and navigated to the superior rectal arteries
- Using real-time X-ray imaging, tiny embolic particles are injected to block blood flow to the hemorrhoids
- The catheter is removed, and only a small bandage is placed—no incisions, no stitches
3. After the Procedure
- You’ll go home the same day
- Most people return to light activity within 24–48 hours
- Bleeding often improves within a few days to 2 weeks
- You may notice gradual shrinkage and symptom relief over several weeks
What Results Can I Expect?
Patients commonly experience:
- Significant reduction in rectal bleeding
- Less pressure or fullness in the rectal area
- Reduced need for hemorrhoid creams or medications
- Improved bowel comfort and quality of life
HAE has shown success rates of 70–90% in clinical studies for patients with chronic hemorrhoid bleeding.
Is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization Right for Me?
You may be a good candidate if:
- You have internal hemorrhoids that bleed regularly
- You’ve tried diet changes, fiber, creams, or ligation without lasting success
- You want to avoid surgery or anesthesia
- You’re not a candidate for or prefer to avoid hemorrhoidectomy
A consultation and imaging will determine whether HAE is appropriate for your specific symptoms and anatomy.
Risks and Complications
HAE is a low-risk procedure, especially when performed by skilled vascular specialists. However, like any intervention, there are potential risks.
Common, mild side effects:
- Mild abdominal discomfort or cramping
- Temporary changes in bowel habits
- Minor bruising or soreness at the access site
Rare complications:
- Non-target embolization (unintended blockage of nearby vessels)
- Infection at the catheter site
- Rectal ischemia (extremely rare with modern techniques)
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye
Our team uses advanced imaging to guide every step and minimize all risks.
FAQS
What is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)?
HAE is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces hemorrhoid symptoms by blocking the blood vessels that feed internal hemorrhoids. It shrinks the hemorrhoids over time and reduces bleeding—without surgery.
Who is a good candidate for HAE?
HAE is ideal for patients with bleeding internal hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to lifestyle changes, fiber supplements, or procedures like rubber band ligation. It’s especially helpful for those looking to avoid surgery or those who are not good surgical candidates.
How is the procedure performed?
Under local anesthesia, a thin catheter is inserted through an artery in your wrist or groin. Using imaging, it’s guided to the hemorrhoidal arteries. Microscopic particles are then injected to block the blood flow to the hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink.
Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. The procedure is done with local anesthesia, and recovery typically involves only mild cramping or soreness, which resolves within a few days.
When will I see results?
Some patients notice less bleeding within a few days, with continued improvement over the following 2–6 weeks as the hemorrhoids shrink and symptoms decrease.
Are there any risks?
HAE is considered very safe. Mild side effects include cramping, temporary constipation, or soreness. Rare risks include non-target embolization, infection, or rectal ischemia, though these are extremely uncommon.
Will I still need surgery afterward HAE?
For many patients, HAE eliminates the need for surgery. However, if symptoms persist or return later, it doesn’t prevent future procedures and can be combined with other therapies if needed.
Is HAE covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage for HAE may vary depending on your plan and provider. Our team will help you verify your benefits and go over any costs before your procedure.
Please contact our office to schedule a consultation to see if Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)is right for you.
TESTIMONIALS
Jack Wood
Marilyn Vogel
Dennis Smith
Me’Me’ Sannaon
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