If you’re struggling with persistent pain and bleeding from internal hemorrhoids, you may feel frustrated with traditional treatments that haven’t provided lasting relief. At the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center, we offer hemorrhoid embolization — an innovative solution that can help you regain your comfort and confidence without the downtime associated with surgery.
Book AppointmentHemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort and bleeding, particularly during bowel movements. Also called piles, hemorrhoids can form outside of the anus or deeper inside the rectum. While hemorrhoids may resolve on their own with a high-fiber diet, lifestyle changes and creams that temporarily relieve itching and swelling, severe hemorrhoids — especially those that occur internally — might require further treatment.
Hemorrhoid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to internal hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink naturally. Unlike traditional hemorrhoid surgery, there’s no need for incisions or tissue removal, making it an excellent option for patients seeking a gentler alternative. Depending on your needs, hemorrhoid embolization can be performed separately or in conjunction with hemorrhoid banding procedures (typically performed by a GI specialist).
Before considering hemorrhoid embolization, our experienced team carefully evaluates each patient’s needs and medical history. While this innovative procedure is suitable for many people suffering from hemorrhoids, certain factors help determine if it’s the best choice for you.
You may be a good candidate for hemorrhoid embolization if you:
As a nonsurgical treatment option, hemorrhoid embolization involves less risk and downtime than more invasive procedures. It is effective for hemorrhoids that protrude while straining but retract to their original position, either on their own or with manual assistance (grade 2 and 3 hemorrhoids). If you have grade 2 or 3 internal hemorrhoids and haven’t found relief with other techniques, you may be an ideal candidate for hemorrhoid embolization.
Hemorrhoid embolization typically takes about 45 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia with mild sedation. During treatment, our interventional radiologists make a pin-sized hole in the upper thigh to access the femoral artery. A small tube called a catheter is inserted and, using real-time imaging, guided to the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoids. Once it is in the appropriate position, your provider releases tiny coils that block these blood vessels, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink naturally over time.
Once the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed and pressure is applied to the puncture site. Only a small mark remains that can be easily covered with a bandage. Most patients report minimal discomfort, and you’ll be able to return home the same day.
Recovery from hemorrhoid embolization is quick compared to traditional surgical options. Most patients can return to their normal activities within 24-48 hours. You may experience mild discomfort at the catheter entry site, but this usually resolves after a day or two. The hemorrhoids will gradually shrink over the following weeks as their blood supply diminishes.
At Orange County Interventional Radiology, our experienced team of interventional radiologists specializes in providing innovative, nonsurgical solutions for hemorrhoids and other concerns. We understand how this condition can affect your quality of life, and we’re here to help you find relief with the most advanced treatment options available.
Contact us today at (949) 317-1633 to schedule a consultation and learn if hemorrhoid embolization might be right for you. Our team will answer your questions and help you understand all your treatment options.
Our Locations
29300 Portola Parkway, Suite B
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
26921 Crown Valley Parkway, #120
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
18102 Sky Park Circle South, Suite D
Irvine, CA 92614
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
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