If you've noticed bleeding during bowel movements and been diagnosed with hemorrhoids, you may think your treatment options are limited to consuming a diet rich in fibre, rubber band litigation, or open surgery. The good news is that now patients can consider hemorrhoidal artery embolization, which provides a safe and efficient method to alleviate their symptoms. This article explains the procedure and discusses hemorrhoid embolization recovery and any possible side effects, so keep reading to learn more.
Hemorrhoidal artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure to treat bleeding from internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in the anus or rectum caused by increased pressure. Internal hemorrhoids can sometimes bleed, especially after straining during a bowel movement and are common during pregnancy.
Hemorrhoid embolization aims to reduce the blood flow to the cushion of arteries, thereby alleviating the itching, pain, pressure, and bleeding associated with internal hemorrhoids.
During the procedure, our interventional radiologists will insert a small catheter through either your wrist or groin. This catheter is then carefully guided to the blood vessels in your rectum using X-ray imaging. Once the catheter is in place, small coils are implanted into the blood vessels to decrease blood flow. Over time, the hemorrhoids shrink and disappear and the bleeding stops.
The entire process takes about 45 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia or sedation, which means patients can often return to work the next day, without needing an overnight hospital stay.
Hemorrhoid embolization treatment is typically for patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids who haven't found relief through conservative measures like diet changes or over-the-counter medications. It can also be an option for those unable to have traditional surgery due to factors like age or other health issues. However, suitability varies based on each person's health and the severity of their hemorrhoids.
During a consultation at MINT, you will be asked about your symptoms, lifestyle habits and medical history.
Next comes the physical examination, which might include visually inspecting your anal area and performing a digital rectal examination. Depending on your symptoms and what's found during this initial examination, additional diagnostic tests such as anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy might be suggested.
It's essential to have a detailed discussion with our radiologists to determine if hemorrhoid embolization is right for you.
Like all medical procedures, there are potential side effects associated with hemorrhoid embolization. The good news is that any side effects tend to be minor and short-lived. Symptoms can include:
So now you know who qualifies for the treatment and any potential side effects, let's move on to the success rate and hemorroid embolization recovery.
While there have been numerous earlier studies, the following information was revealed from a study involving 134 patients (76 men and 58 women) who underwent hemorrhoidal embolization for internal hemorrhoids between August 2021 and June 2022.
In 133 out of 134 patients (99%), successful embolization of at least one hemorrhoidal artery was accomplished. On average, each patient had 2.9 ± 1.0 SRA branches embolized. A positive clinical outcome was observed in 93% (124 out of 134) of patients during the 1-month follow-up, with 10 patients needing repeat embolization.
In the short term, arterial embolization proves to be a safe and efficacious outpatient remedy for persistent symptomatic internal hemorrhoids.
Although hemorrhoid embolization is deemed safe and efficient, it's advised exclusively for patients suffering from grade 2 or 3 internal hemorrhoids.
Before reaching out to our Institute, consider implementing lifestyle modifications to gauge if they offer relief. If the discomfort, itching, and bleeding associated with internal hemorrhoids persist, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our team of interventional radiologists!
Following hemorrhoid embolization, patients typically undergo a rapid recovery process, often resuming their normal activities within a few days. Nonetheless, adhering to all post-procedural instructions from the healthcare provider is crucial for achieving the best possible recovery outcome. These instructions may include:
Hopefully, this article has answered your questions and concerns about hemorrhoid embolization recovery and much more besides.
If you’re seeking a non-surgical solution for internal hemorrhoids, then look no further.
Arrange a consultation with our physicians to have your queries addressed and discover how our minimally invasive treatment alternatives can enhance your quality of life. Contact one of our MINT offices today or use our online booking service.
