Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Relief

A Minimally Invasive Solution for Chronic Hemorrhoids

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What Our Patients Have to Say

Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE):

Hemorrhoids are a common gastrointestinal problem among both men and women. In fact, about half of all people will have hemorrhoids by the age of 50. They often appear during the third trimester of pregnancy but are also caused by constipation, diarrhea, or straining too much during bowel movements. Other risk factors include obesity, pelvic tumors, a sedentary lifestyle, low-fiber diets, and the use of certain medications.Although they might be uncomfortable or itchy, hemorrhoids aren’t usually dangerous.

They’re the result of swollen veins in the rectum or anus that bulge under pressure. This can happen either internally or externally, depending on which blood vessels are affected. External hemorrhoids are more obvious and occur beneath the skin surrounding the anus, forming visible lumps. These enlarged veins are the ones likely to cause pain. Internal hemorrhoids are inside of the rectum, and while they aren’t usually seen or felt, may bleed during bowel movements.

They can also prolapse and protrude outside of the anus.While most hemorrhoids go away on their own with dietary and lifestyle changes, some can persist for longer. This might be due to underlying issues or diseases. When internal hemorrhoids and rectal bleeding require more extensive treatment, hemorrhoidal artery embolization can provide relief without surgery or significant downtime.

mature male speaking with doctor in exam room

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A non-surgical treatment for chronic hemorrhoids

Traditional surgery to treat chronic hemorrhoids—called hemorrhoidectomy—is unfortunately known for its long and often painful recovery.
Also called piles, hemorrhoids are blood vessels in the anus or rectum that swell due to increased pressure.
Today, there is a new and minimally invasive option to permanently treat hemorrhoids and alleviate symptoms: Hemorrhoidal artery embolization (HAE).

If you’ve noticed rectal bleeding and have been diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, you might think a high-fiber diet, rubber band ligation, or invasive surgery are your only treatment options. Now, you can also consider hemorrhoidal artery embolization, which provides a safe and effective way to alleviate your symptoms.

The hemorrhoidal artery embolization (HAE) procedure

HAE is performed by an interventional radiologist who inserts a tiny catheter into an artery in your upper thigh and then uses x-ray imaging to guide it through the body’s blood vessels to the rectal artery. Special coils are inserted into the artery to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. The success rate of this procedure is greater than 90%.

Unlike surgery, there is no general anesthesia required for the procedure, no incisions and no scarring. You are able to return home the same day and resume your normal activities.

Benefits of Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization

Less Invasive Treatment Option
Hemorrhoidal artery embolization is a painless outpatient procedure that can be performed in-office. During treatment, a small hole is made in the leg and a catheter is guided to the network of blood vessels supplying the rectum. No large incisions are needed.

Faster Recovery

This procedure doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay, so patients can immediately return to their daily lives with minimal downtime. Compared to surgical techniques, recovery is quick because there are no incisions or stitches involved. Only a small mark remains behind on the leg that can easily be covered with a bandage.

Lasting Results

Most patients find immediate relief from their symptoms and report significantly less bleeding after treatment. Results are long-lasting and can be sustained for several months. Compared to more invasive options, this is accomplished with no major complications or side effects.

mature male speaking with doctor in exam room

Results & Recovery

There are few complications or side effects associated with hemorrhoidal artery embolization. It causes no anal or rectal trauma, so the risks of bleeding or infection are much lower compared to more invasive procedures. If any side effects do occur, they’re usually mild and will resolve on their own without further treatment. Recovery is also fast because there are no large incisions that need to heal and no stitches that need to be removed. In most cases, you should be able to resume your normal routine and go back to work the next day.

Following the procedure, over 90 percent of patients who undergo embolization experience no further bleeding from their hemorrhoids. These results last for several months after just one treatment, but your results may vary depending on the severity of your condition. If necessary, embolization can be repeated to provide further symptom relief.

Why Choose Precision Vascular Kentucky for Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization?

The physician at Precision Vascular Kentucky, is an expert in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures. Our highly trained and board-certified doctor, Ryan Jean-Baptiste has the experience to provide symptom relief from internal hemorrhoids without significant surgery. For years, we’ve been trusted by patients and providers in Kentucky and Southern Indiana for advanced vascular and gastrointestinal interventions such as hemorrhoidal artery embolization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hemorrhoid embolization painful?

Hemorrhoid embolization is minimally invasive and typically well-tolerated. Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure, and any discomfort afterward is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Can hemorrhoids come back after embolization?
While hemorrhoid embolization can significantly reduce symptoms and shrink hemorrhoids, there is a possibility that they could return over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following Dr. Jean Baptiste’s recommendations can help minimize the chances of recurrence.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with hemorrhoid embolization?
As with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved, but they are rare. Potential side effects include mild discomfort, bruising at the catheter insertion site, or a slight risk of infection. Dr. Jean-Baptiste will discuss any risks with you before the procedure.

How long does HAE take?
Hemorrhoid artery embolization typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish. It’s a same-day procedure, so patients go home shortly after, usually spending another hour or two in recovery. Since there are no incisions and no general anesthesia, most people are back to their usual routine within a day or two.
What is the success rate for HAE?
Compared to traditional surgery, which can involve pain, longer recovery, and even recurrence, HAE offers a less invasive path with fewer complications. While no treatment works for everyone, HAE provides a highly effective option for many people who want to avoid surgery but still get meaningful relief.

Areas Served:

We offer Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) to patients with hemorrhoids in the following cities in Kentucky and Southern Indiana.  

Cities:

Louisville, Saint Matthews, Bardstown, Elizabethtown, Shepherdsville, Mount Washington, Lyndon, Okolona, Shively, Jeffersonville, Clarksville, New Albany

Contact Us

Telehealth & In-Person Appointments Available.

Contact Details

Phone: 502-365-4151

Fax: (877) 837-3834

Practice Addresses

512 Executive Park, Louisville, KY 40207

Working Hours

Monday - Friday: 8 AM – 5 PM