Understanding Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids (commonly called piles) are swollen vascular cushions in the lower rectum or around the anus. They are very common and can cause symptoms such as bleeding during bowel movements, discomfort, itching, or a feeling of fullness around the anal area.

Haemorrhoids develop when the veins and blood vessels that supply these cushions become enlarged and congested. Increased pressure within the haemorrhoidal vessels leads to swelling and irritation, which may result in bleeding and discomfort.

Haemorrhoidal Artery Embolization (HAE), also known as the “emborrhoid” procedure, is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment that reduces blood flow to the haemorrhoidal tissue.

During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter (a thin hollow tube) into an artery, usually through the wrist or upper thigh. Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the arteries supplying the haemorrhoids (the superior rectal arteries). Tiny particles or coils are then injected to reduce blood flow to the haemorrhoids.

By decreasing the abnormal blood supply, the haemorrhoidal tissue shrinks, which can reduce bleeding and improve symptoms.

Common Conditions Treated

1. Internal haemorrhoids (Grade I, II, III) causing recurrent rectal bleeding
2. Symptomatic haemorrhoids not responding to conservative treatment
3. Persistent bleeding haemorrhoids
4. Haemorrhoids in patients who wish to avoid surgery

Who May Benefit

You may be suitable for HAE if you:

1. Have persistent bleeding haemorrhoids
2. Continue to have symptoms despite medications, dietary modification, or banding
3. Wish to avoid surgical haemorrhoidectomy
4. Prefer a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment option
5. Are considered higher risk for surgery or general anaesthesia

How the Procedure Is Performed

1. Performed by an interventional radiologist
2. Usually done under local anaesthesia with light sedation
3. A small catheter is inserted into an artery (commonly through the wrist or upper thigh)
4. Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is advanced to the arteries supplying the haemorrhoids
5. Tiny particles or coils are delivered to reduce blood flow to the haemorrhoidal tissue
6. The procedure usually takes about 1–2 hours and is typically performed as a day-stay treatment

Benefits

1. Minimally invasive – no surgical incision
2. Performed under local anaesthesia – avoids general anaesthesia
3. Day procedure – no overnight hospital stay
4. Reduced bleeding and haemorrhoid symptoms
5. Short recovery time
6. Preserves normal anatomy of the anal canal

Risks and Side Effects

Most patients recover without complications, but possible side effects include:

1. Mild discomfort or pelvic pressure for a few days
2. Temporary rectal discomfort
3. Small bruise at the catheter insertion site
4. Rarely: infection, non-target embolization, or persistent symptoms requiring additional treatment

After the Procedure

1. Most patients go home the same day
2. Normal daily activities can usually resume within 24–48 hours
3. Mild discomfort may occur for a few days and can usually be managed with simple pain relief
4. Improvement in bleeding and symptoms typically occurs over several weeks as the haemorrhoids shrink
5. A high-fibre diet and adequate hydration are recommended to support bowel health
6. Follow-up is arranged with your interventional radiologist

Talk to Us

If you suffer from symptomatic haemorrhoids and are looking for a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, talk to your interventional radiologist or referring doctor about Haemorrhoidal Artery Embolization (HAE).