Haemorrhoid Artery Embolisation (HAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat bleeding internal haemorrhoids. Using imaging guidance, a thin catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin and advanced into the blood vessels supplying the haemorrhoids. Coils, sometimes combined with microscopic particles, are used to block these vessels, restricting blood flow to the haemorrhoids and reducing the risk of bleeding.

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Who is a Candidate for HAE?

HAE is primarily recommended for patients with painless bleeding. It is a good option for:

• Persistent bleeding despite conservative therapies.

• Persistent bleeding following other minimally invasive treatments such as banding, sclerotherapy and ligation.

• Patients wishing to avoid traditional surgery.

• Individuals with increased surgical or anaesthetic risks.

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Clinical Benefits

• Minimally invasive: No anal incisions or tissue excision required.•

• Sphincter preservation: No direct disruption to the anal sphincter, protecting bowel control.

• Excellent safety profile: Minimal procedural blood loss and typically performed without general anaesthesia.

• Rapid recovery: Most patients experience limited postoperative discomfort and enjoy a same-day discharge with a short recovery time.

• Repeatable: The procedure can be safely repeated if bleeding recurs.

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Important Considerations & Limitations

While highly effective for bleeding, HAE has specific clinical parameters:

• Targeted Treatment: It only treats internal haemorrhoids and does not treat external haemorrhoids or skin tags.

• Symptom Coverage: It is highly effective for bleeding, but does not treat pain caused by prolapsed or thrombosed haemorrhoids.

• Anatomical Factors: Significant structural prolapse may require a alternative surgical approach.

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Required Pre-Procedural Assessment

To ensure the highest standard of care, a gastroenterologist assessment is mandatory prior to scheduling HAE. This evaluation confirms that haemorrhoids are the definitive source of your bleeding and rules out any other underlying colorectal pathology.