Hemorrhoid Embolization

About one in 20 people in the United States has bothersome hemorrhoids. If your hemorrhoid symptoms cause pain or distress, please see board-certified interventional radiologist Tate Kirk, MD, in White Plains, New York. He has performed hemorrhoid artery embolization for countless patients to relieve bleeding and discomfort. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.

What is hemorrhoid embolization?

Hemorrhoid embolization, or hemorrhoidal artery embolization, is a minimally invasive procedure that offers relief for internal hemorrhoids that cause bothersome symptoms. This treatment works by reducing the blood supply to the affected hemorrhoidal tissues. By blocking these arteries, internal hemorrhoids shrink and stop bleeding. 

When is hemorrhoid embolization appropriate?

Hemorrhoid embolization may be an option if you experience bothersome hemorrhoidal symptoms, such as:

• Bright red blood
• Pain or irritation around the anus
• Itchiness
• Sore or tender lumps near the anus
• Swelling

You might be a candidate for this procedure if you haven’t had results after conservative treatments and want to avoid invasive surgery to ease symptoms with a shorter recovery time. 

How can I prepare for hemorrhoid embolization?

Follow Dr. Kirk’s instructions to prepare for hemorrhoid embolization. He may ask you to avoid food, drinks, and some medications before your scheduled appointment. You might also need blood work, a physical exam, and imaging procedures. Make arrangements for someone to give you a ride home afterward.

What can I expect during hemorrhoid embolization?

You receive sedation and local anesthesia to make you sleepy and avoid discomfort during hemorrhoid embolization, which often lasts about one hour. Dr. Kirk inserts a tiny catheter (thin tube) into an artery near your upper thigh. He uses live X-rays to guide the catheter into the arteries supplying your hemorrhoids. 

Dr. Kirk then injects tiny particles and/or occlusive coils through the catheter into the targeted arteries to reduce blood supply to the hemorrhoids - resulting in diminished hemorrhoid size, bleeding, and other symptoms. 

What happens after a hemorrhoid embolization procedure?

You can go home the same day as hemorrhoid embolization. Get plenty of rest, take any medications as directed, and avoid strenuous activity for a few days. 

Your symptoms should improve during the next few weeks as the treated hemorrhoids begin to shrink. Dr. Kirk will have a follow-up visit with you 2-3 weeks after the procedure and you are encouraged to reach out at anytime with questions.

Schedule an appointment with Tate Kirk, MD, by phone or request an appointment online today to learn more about hemorrhoid embolization and if you’re a candidate for this procedure.