Why choose hemorrhoid embolization (often referred to as an emborrhoid technique) over other minimally invasive internal hemorrhoid treatments? And what are the other treatment options for your condition? This post shares all the important information.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, those swollen veins in your anus or lower rectum, can take two forms: internal, meaning they've developed inside your rectum, and external, meaning they've developed outside its opening. While external hemorrhoids are typically more painful, internal hemorrhoids can also cause bleeding, itchiness and discomfort.

As a result, bleeding with bowel movements is the most common symptom for people with internal hemorrhoids. And that's why we see many patients at the Georgia Hemorrhoid Institute who have noticed blood in their stool.

Treating Hemorrhoids in Georgia: What are the Options?

There are several minimally invasive treatment options for internal hemorrhoids. Some involve lifestyle changes like following a diet to help hemorrhoids. You could also try topical or oral medication; or you may explore procedures such as sclerotherapy or a rubber band ligation. However, these options fail at least 10% of patients with internal hemorrhoids.

In the past, that meant having to schedule hemorrhoidectomy surgery to remove your swollen veins.  However, as with any surgery, there were risks of complications. Luckily, there's now a better option available: hemorrhoid embolization.

Understanding Hemorrhoid Embolization

In the last 10 years, hemorrhoid embolization has emerged as an effective, minimally-invasive treatment option for internal hemorrhoids that have not progressed past stage 3. According to this review, it won't compromise anal tone, so you won't have to worry about side effects associated with surgery, such as anal incontinence. Also, HAE can preserve the surrounding tissue in your anus, and won't leave you with rectal wounds. Best of all, recovery is fairly quick: within three days of the procedure, most patients can resume their full activities. And HAE's minimally-invasive nature means you won't have to stay in the hospital overnight following your procedure.

This procedure is also proving to be highly effective, with an emerging success rate of close to 90%. In contrast, other hemorrhoid treatments are far less effective, some with recurrence rates as high as 49%.

So, who should choose hemorrhoid embolization? While not everyone is a candidate for HAE, we can help you review your options. Just contact the Georgia Hemorrhoid Institute so you can connect with our interventional radiologists. We'll schedule your consultation and start you on the path to relief.