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A older man holding a child happy about his HAE procedure

Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization

A minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure that offers long- lasting relief from painful hemorrhoids and rectal bleeding. Up to 93% of patients may see improvement within one month.1

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What is hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE)?

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins that can form inside and outside the anus and rectum. There are four types of hemorrhoids—internal, external, prolapsed, and thrombosed—and they range in how serious they are.

For some people, hemorrhoids go away after some time. For others, they can become very painful, last a long time, and cause heavy bleeding. Causes of hemorrhoids include straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods of time, and pregnancy.

1 in 20 Americans of all ages, genders, races, and ethnicities have hemorrhoids.2

 

If you're dealing with painful hemorrhoids and rectal bleeding, hemorrhoid artery embolization may be the answer. This procedure is minimally invasive and provides long-lasting relief by blocking blood flow to the hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink and fall off.

An illustration of the location and types of hemorrhoids

Who is a candidate for HAE?

If you struggle with hemorrhoids and have tried other remedies like hygiene, diet, and medications without success, then the nonsurgical and minimally invasive hemorrhoid artery embolization procedure could be right for you.

You may be a candidate for HAE if you:

  • Have internal and/or external hemorrhoids
  • Have had symptoms like rectal bleeding and severe pain for at least three months
  • Have tried other remedies that have not worked
  • Want to avoid surgery

How is HAE performed?

Our interventional radiologists perform HAE in an outpatient setting-that means you can go home the very same day. The procedure is painless and requires virtually no recovery time.

Here's how the procedure is done:

  • First, the doctor uses X-ray guidance to insert a catheter, or a very small tube, through your upper leg or wrist.
  • Next, the catheter is guided into the arteries connected to the hemorrhoids.
  • Then, microscopic beads and coils are released through the catheter and into the arteries to block the blood flowing to the hemorrhoids.

Blocking the blood flow causes the hemorrhoids to shrink and the bleeding symptoms to improve, alleviating the pain you have been experiencing.

In some studies, up to 93% of patients may see improvement in rectal bleeding within one month.1

What are the benefits of HAE?

Hemorrhoid artery embolization is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure that provides lasting relief. Studies show that it helps greatly with bleeding and quality of life.

Other benefits of HAE include:

  • Minimally invasive—no incision or scarring
  • Requires only conscious sedation, so you can go home the same day
  • Requires minimal recovery time at home
  • Provides a reduced risk of infection
  • Makes it less likely that hemorrhoids will return
A woman riding a bike in comfort because she had a HAE procedure
A man discussing a HAE procedure with his doctor
We can help

Experts in hemorrhoid artery embolization

We put you and your needs at the center of your care. Our team of experts uses the latest imaging technology and minimally invasive techniques to treat hemorrhoids. Experience relief and get back to your daily routine with a simple procedure and minimal recovery time. Request an appointment at one of our centers to see if hemorrhoid artery embolization is right for you.

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FAQs

Learn more about hemorrhoid artery embolization

A woman paddle boarding in comfort because she had a HAE procedure

There are four types of hemorrhoids:

  • Internal hemorrhoids, the most common, occur inside the rectum and usually aren't painful.
  • External hemorrhoids, the least common, occur at the opening of the anus and can be very painful.
  • Prolapsed hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that have slipped outside the anus.
  • Thrombosed hemorrhoids are hemorrhoids that are filled with blood clots. They can be internal or external. When external, they can be painful.

In some studies, up to 93% of patients may see improvement in rectal bleeding within one month.1

Most people experience minimal recovery time after hemorrhoid artery embolization. The procedure typically takes 30–40 minutes, and you will leave within an hour with just a small band-aid on your leg. You may go back to work and resume normal activities the next day, though you should avoid heavy lifting for the first 2 days.

Our centers take most insurance plans. However, always check with your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers and any costs you may incur, such as a co-pay.

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