Non-Surgical Treatment for Internal Hemorrhoids in Houston & Dallas
Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that uses endovascular techniques to dramatically reduce hemorrhoid symptoms.
Though hemorrhoids rarely pose a serious health threat, the discomfort they cause can significantly impact daily life. If home treatments and lifestyle modifications fail to provide relief, clinical intervention may become necessary.
Medical procedures for hemorrhoid management range from minimally invasive options to more comprehensive solutions. Superior rectal artery embolization, commonly referred to as hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE), has emerged as one of the most successful approaches for addressing internal hemorrhoid symptoms.
At Texas Endovascular, our team throughout Houston & Dallas uses HAE for the minimally invasive treatment of hemorrhoids following diagnosis and referral.
What is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)?
Hemorrhoid artery embolization offers a minimally invasive interventional radiology solution for patients with persistent internal hemorrhoids. The procedure targets core hemorrhoids symptoms including rectal bleeding, pain, and associated discomfort.
How is HAE Treatment Performed in Houston & Dallas?
During HAE, a narrow catheter is passed through an artery in the wrist or the groin and directed to the superior rectal artery, which supplies blood to the hemorrhoidal veins. Once the catheter is in position, tiny particles and coils are injected into the artery to obstruct the blood flow to the hemorrhoids. By doing so, the swollen hemorrhoids shrink, and symptoms are relieved.
Why is Hemorrhoid Arty Embolization (HAE) a Better Alternative than Traditional Surgery?
Compared to conventional surgical options like hemorrhoidectomy, hemorrhoid artery embolization delivers a safer, less invasive pathway to symptom resolution. Patients benefit from faster recovery periods, significantly reduced post-procedure discomfort, and lower complication rates. The outpatient nature of HAE allows same-day discharge, eliminating the need for overnight hospitalization.
This procedure usually takes place under local anesthesia, although sedation may be used to keep the patient comfortable. The duration of the procedure varies, but it usually takes around 45 minutes to complete. Following HAE, patients are advised to avoid activities that may strain the rectal area, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
Dr. Fox - Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization
Helping Patients Find Long-Term Hemorrhoid Relief in Houston & Dallas
Numerous treatment options are available for hemorrhoids. While topical creams and warm sitz baths can provide temporary relief, people who have not succeeded with conservative measures may consider hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE).
HAE is particularly effective for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids in patients who have not responded to conservative treatment and wish to avoid surgery. While some individuals may require surgical management elsewhere, HAE offers a minimally invasive alternative for appropriately selected patients.
If you are experiencing symptoms related to internal hemorrhoids and are seeking a minimally invasive treatment option, please contact the helpful team at Texas Endovascular to learn more about your options.
Who Is a Good Candidate for HAE Treatment at Texas Endovascular?
While HAE has shown promising results in treating chronic internal hemorrhoids, it is essential to understand that not all patients are eligible candidates for this procedure. Candidates for HAE include the following:
- Patients with chronic, symptomatic grades 1-3 internal hemorrhoids
- Patients who cannot or do not wish to undergo traditional surgery
- Patients who have not undergone colorectal surgery
- Patients who do not have allergies to embolic agents or contrast dyes
A thorough medical assessment by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine whether HAE is the right treatment option for each case.
How Do I Prepare for my HAE Treatment?
Our care team in Houston and Dallas will provide a comprehensive preparation guideline prior to the procedure. Diagnostic evaluation, often including endoscopy may be necessary to assess the hemorrhoid tissue and rule out other rectal abnormalities.
Are There Alternative Hemorrhoid Medical Procedures?
Other hemorrhoid removal procedures might be more appropriate if you are not a good candidate for HAE.
What is Hemorrhoid Surgery?
Hemorrhoid surgery, also known as hemorrhoidectomy, is a procedure performed to treat severe cases of hemorrhoids. Surgical intervention may be necessary for more severe or persistent grade 4 hemorrhoids.
The procedure involves removing engorged vascular tissue to eliminate symptoms and prevent recurrence. Most hemorrhoidectomies are performed under general anesthesia, though regional or local anesthetic approaches may be employed in select cases.
Recovery from surgical hemorrhoid removal demands extended rest periods and diligent wound management. Despite strong long-term outcomes, hemorrhoidectomy carries a notable complication profile: post-operative pain and bleeding are common, affecting a substantial percentage of patients.
What is a Hemorrhoid Banding Procedure?
Hemorrhoid banding ligation is a technique where a rubber band is tied around the hemorrhoids to cut off their blood supply. The hemorrhoidal tissues shrink and fall off after a few weeks.
While the procedure is proven effective, post-procedure complications can be severe. Some patients report significant pain and anal bleeding.
What is Hemorrhoid Sclerotherapy?
During sclerotherapy, a physician injects a caustic agent directly into the submucosal space surrounding hemorrhoidal tissue. The injected solution induces inflammation and fibrosis of the supplying vasculature, leading to hemorrhoid reduction and symptom relief.
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient treatment that is generally well tolerated by most patients. However, patients might have to undergo multiple treatments every few weeks.
What is Hemorrhoidopexy?
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is a procedure where the hemorrhoid tissues are removed using a stapling tool. The procedure is not advised for prolapsed hemorrhoids, and the complication rate is similar to hemorrhoidectomy.
Serving the Houston & Dallas area at these Convenient Hemorrhoids Artery Embolization (HAE) Treatment Centers
Each location offers the same specialized Hemorrhoids Artery Embolization (HAE) care delivered by board-certified interventional radiologists. Our Houston and Dallas specialists serve patients throughout Texas at convenient locations, including:
Hemorrhoids Artery Embolization (HAE) Treatment in Houston
4747 Bellaire Blvd
Suite 550
Bellaire, TX 77401
Hemorrhoids Artery Embolization (HAE) Treatment in Dallas
3920 W Wheatland Rd
Suite 108
Dallas, TX 75237
