What are Hemorrhoids?

Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue in their rectum/anus, which is a normal structure that helps control bowel movements. Hemorrhoids can become enlarged and problematic from chronic constipation, straining, and childbirth. When these get enlarged, they can cause problems such as bleeding and pain.

Hemorrhoid Embolization

Hemorrhoid embolization is a minimally invasive solution for hemorrhoids causing problems. This is an outpatient procedure where some of the blood supply to the hemorrhoids is blocked off with tiny permanent beads and coils causing the hemorrhoids to shrink. This is done through a pinhole in the wrist or top of the leg, so no incision or stitches.

Other options for treating hemorrhoids include medications, banding, and surgery. The medications and banding can work for some people and are often tried first. The surgery involves cutting out the hemorrhoids. This is very effective but has a pretty painful recovery.

Hemorrhoid embolization is a less invasive alternative to surgery. It tends to work better for bleeding than pain but can help with pain as well. It also works better when the hemorrhoid is not large enough to protrude out the anus where you can feel/see it on the outside.

What are the risks and recovery of Hemorrhoid embolization?

The procedure is generally safe and an outpatient procedure where you go home the same day. Some people have some rectal pain and a feeling like they need to have a bowel movement for a few days but otherwise no specific recovery. Permanent complications are very rare.