Rectal Artery Embolization
Understanding Hemorrhoids & Treatment Available
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They are a common condition that can cause discomfort, bleeding, and irritation. Fortunately, many effective treatment options are available — from lifestyle changes to advanced minimally invasive procedures.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum. They are usually painless, but can bleed — often noticed as bright red blood during bowel movements. In some cases, internal hemorrhoids can prolapse (fall through the anus), causing discomfort and further irritation.
External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus. These can cause pain, especially if irritated or if a blood clot forms inside (a condition known as thrombosed hemorrhoids). Swelling and itching are also common.
Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
- Rectal bleeding – Bright red blood during or after bowel movements is the most common symptom.
- Anal itching or irritation – Particularly common with internal hemorrhoids.
- Pain or discomfort – Especially with external or thrombosed hemorrhoids.
- Swelling around the anus
- Prolapse – Internal hemorrhoids may protrude through the anal opening.
- Stool leakage – When prolapsed hemorrhoids prevent the anus from closing completely.
Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Mild cases often improve with at-home care, while persistent or severe cases may require medical intervention. First-line conservative treatments include:
- High-fiber diet and increased water intake
- Avoiding straining during bowel movements
- Topical ointments or suppositories
- Warm baths (sitz baths)
If these things don’t provide sufficient relief, it’s time to talk to your doctor. While many people put off seeking treatment for hemorrhoids because they were afraid of painful surgical options, there are now new minimally invasive treatments that can be used.
New Non-Surgical Innovation: Rectal Artery Embolization
A newer treatment for internal hemorrhoids is superior rectal artery embolization. This outpatient procedure is performed at the Conrad Pearson IR Center by an Interventional Radiologist and is ideal for patients with grade I–III internal hemorrhoids who want to avoid surgery.
How It Works
A small needle poke is made in the wrist or groin. A thin tube (microcatheter) is guided through arteries to reach the vessels feeding the hemorrhoid. Using real-time X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy), tiny coils or particles are placed to block blood flow. This reduces pressure in the hemorrhoidal veins and alleviates symptoms. The procedure itself only takes about 45 minutes. It causes minimal discomfort and there is no general anesthesia required. In fact, after rectal artery embolization, most patients go home within 2 hours and can return to work the next day.
Key Benefits of Rectal Artery Embolization
- Minimally invasive
- Preserves normal anal function
- No surgical wounds or cutting
- Leaves hemorrhoidal tissue intact
- Excellent short-term results with rapid recovery
If you have been suffering from hemorrhoids there is hope and help for relief. Talk to your doctor about treatment by our interventional radiologist.
Get Back To Feeling Great
Our whole team is here to help! Conrad Pearson strives to offer new patients an appointment within a week and for those with urgent needs, we offer same-day appointments.
