Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization
Hemorrhoidal artery embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment option for selected patients with symptomatic internal hemorrhoids — designed to reduce bleeding and discomfort without traditional hemorrhoid surgery.
- Treats
- Symptomatic internal hemorrhoids in selected patients
- Common symptoms
- Rectal bleeding, discomfort, pressure, irritation
- Typical setting
- Outpatient — most patients return home the same day
- Recovery
- Many patients return to daily activity quickly; specifics vary by patient
- Candidates
- Determined after physician evaluation
About this condition
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in or around the rectum and anus. Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and can cause bleeding, discomfort, and a sense of pressure or incomplete emptying.
Many patients have tried diet, lifestyle changes, topical treatments, or in-office procedures without lasting relief.
For selected patients, hemorrhoidal artery embolization may offer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional hemorrhoid surgery.
How Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization works
Using imaging guidance, a Beacon IR Clinic physician inserts a thin catheter through a small access point (often in the wrist) and navigates it to the arteries that supply the hemorrhoids.
Small embolic agents are then released to reduce blood flow to the affected vessels. This is designed to reduce bleeding and ease symptoms over time.
Because the procedure is image-guided and works from inside the blood vessels, it does not involve cutting or removing tissue around the anus.
Benefits and tradeoffs
No procedure is right for every patient. Below are general benefits and considerations to discuss with your physician.
- No incision in the anal areaTreatment is delivered through a small access point in the wrist or thigh.
- OutpatientMost patients return home the same day.
- Anesthesia profileTypically performed under conscious sedation.
- Often a quicker return to activityCompared with traditional hemorrhoid surgery, many patients describe a more comfortable recovery.
- Targeted approachImage guidance helps focus treatment on specific arteries.
- ConsiderationsEmbolization is not appropriate for every patient or every type of hemorrhoid. A physician evaluation is required.
Who may be a candidate?
The list below is general — it is not a diagnosis. A Beacon IR Clinic physician will review your history and imaging during a consultation.
- Symptomatic internal hemorrhoids confirmed on evaluation
- Bleeding that has not responded to conservative management
- Patients seeking a minimally invasive option
- Selected patients after physician review of medical history and any prior treatments
Take the next step
Tell us about your symptoms and we will help schedule an appropriate consultation.
Schedule ConsultationBefore, during, after, and recovery
A general guide. Your physician will share the plan specific to your case.
Before
- Initial consultation, in person or virtually
- Review of symptoms and prior treatments
- Pre-procedure instructions provided
During
- Performed in an outpatient setting under conscious sedation
- Image-guided catheter through a small access point
- Continuous monitoring throughout
After
- Short observation period
- Discharge home the same day for most patients
- Written post-procedure instructions and follow-up plan
Recovery
- Many patients return to daily activity quickly
- Bleeding and discomfort often improve gradually over weeks
- Follow-up to assess response
Frequently asked questions
What is hemorrhoidal artery embolization?
It is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces blood flow to symptomatic hemorrhoids using a thin catheter inserted through a small access point.
Is hemorrhoid embolization surgery?
It is not traditional hemorrhoid surgery. There is no incision in the anal area; treatment is delivered through the blood vessels under image guidance.
Who is a candidate for hemorrhoidal artery embolization?
Selected patients with symptomatic internal hemorrhoids that have not responded to conservative care. A consultation and evaluation are required.
How long is recovery?
Recovery is generally shorter than with traditional hemorrhoid surgery, but the timeline varies. Your physician will review what to expect for your case.
Does hemorrhoidal artery embolization treat external hemorrhoids?
The procedure is most commonly considered for internal hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids may be evaluated separately and treated differently.
Related conditions & treatments
Varicose Vein Treatment
Beacon IR Clinic provides evaluation and minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and venous insufficiency — including radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy for appropriate candidates.
Men's HealthProstate Artery Embolization (PAE)
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment for selected patients with symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — designed to relieve urinary symptoms without traditional prostate surgery.
Helpful resources
Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization guide
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