Joint & Vascular Institute
What is the HAE Procedure?
Joint and Vascular Institute offers Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE), a minimally invasive and effective treatment for patients dealing with the pain, bleeding, and discomfort associated with chronic hemorrhoids. HAE provides a non-surgical alternative that directly targets the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoids, reducing their size and relieving symptoms without the need for more invasive surgical methods.
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) Specialists
Non-Surgical Treatment for Hemorrhoids
Benefits of Choosing HAE for Hemorrhoids
HAE offers numerous advantages over traditional surgical methods, making it a top choice for those seeking relief without extensive recovery:
Frequently Asked Questions About HAE
What is HAE?
Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve symptoms of internal hemorrhoids by reducing blood flow to the affected tissue. The procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist (IR)—a physician specially trained to perform procedures within blood vessels, eliminating the need for surgery.
Who is an Ideal Candidate?
- Patients with symptomatic grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids
- Patients experiencing significant bleeding
- Patients who haven’t found relief with conservative treatments, such as dietary adjustments, improved bowel habits, or topical/oral medications
- Individuals who prefer to avoid or are not candidates for surgical hemorrhoidectomy or trans-anal procedures
How is HAE Performed?
HAE is a minimally invasive, generally painless procedure performed as an outpatient treatment, allowing patients to go home the same day. Local anesthesia is applied at the puncture site, with no need for sedation, and the procedure typically takes about one hour.
During HAE, an interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter (a thin, hollow tube) into an artery in the upper thigh. Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is directed to the arteries supplying the hemorrhoids. Tiny particles and coils are injected through the catheter to reduce blood flow to the hemorrhoids, leading to reduced size and alleviated symptoms, particularly bleeding.
Meet Our Team
Radiology Consultants of the Midwest, P.C., is the oldest and largest private radiology group in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area, offering world-class expertise in various imaging specialties, including abdominal, breast, musculoskeletal, neuroimaging, nuclear medicine, pediatrics, trauma, and vascular and interventional radiology.
Dr. Patrick Harty
Interventional Radiologist.
Serving Illinois and Surrounding Areas
At Joint and Vascular Institute, we understand how disruptive hemorrhoid symptoms can be to your daily life. Our experienced team of interventional radiologists is dedicated to providing compassionate care, guiding you through the HAE procedure, and creating a treatment plan that meets your individual needs.