When it comes to treating painful or persistent hemorrhoids, patients often find themselves weighing Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) versus surgery. While traditional hemorrhoid surgery has been the standard treatment for years, many people are now exploring minimally invasive hemorrhoid treatment options like HAE for faster recovery and less discomfort.
Below, we’ll break down how HAE compares to surgery, including benefits, risks, and what patients can expect.
What Is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)?
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Instead of cutting or removing tissue, HAE works by:
- Using a tiny catheter inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin
- Blocking the blood vessels that supply hemorrhoids
- Reducing blood flow, which causes hemorrhoids to shrink over time
Because HAE avoids incisions, patients often experience less pain and a quicker return to normal activities compared to surgery.
What Is Traditional Hemorrhoid Surgery?
Traditional hemorrhoid surgery, also called a hemorrhoidectomy, involves the surgical removal of hemorrhoid tissue. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia and can be highly effective for severe or recurring hemorrhoids. However, it also has some drawbacks, including:
- A longer recovery period (often several weeks)
- Higher levels of pain after surgery
- Risks of complications such as infection, bleeding, or anal stricture
Despite these risks, hemorrhoidectomy remains a proven solution for advanced cases where less invasive treatments may not be effective.
HAE vs. Surgery: Key Differences
| Feature | Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) | Traditional Surgery |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive, no tissue removal | Surgical removal of hemorrhoids |
| Anesthesia | Typically a local or light sedation | General or spinal anesthesia |
| Recovery Time | Days to 1 week | Several weeks |
| Pain Level | Generally mild | Moderate to severe |
| Hospital Stay | Performed in an outpatient center | Sometimes requires hospitalization |
| Best For | Patients seeking less invasive treatment or with mild to moderate hemorrhoids | Patients with large, severe, or recurring hemorrhoids |
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Hemorrhoid Treatment
Choosing HAE offers several advantages, especially for patients looking to avoid the discomfort of traditional surgery:
- Less pain and scarring
- Faster recovery – most patients return to work within a few days
- Lower risk of complications
- Preserves anal anatomy
That said, not every patient is an ideal candidate for HAE. Severe or prolapsed hemorrhoids may still require surgical treatment.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
When considering HAE versus surgery, the right choice depends on the severity of your hemorrhoids, your overall health, and your personal preferences for recovery and lifestyle. Consulting with both a colorectal surgeon and an interventional radiologist can help you make an informed decision.
For patients seeking a minimally invasive hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) is an innovative alternative to traditional hemorrhoid surgery. While surgery remains the gold standard for advanced cases, HAE offers an effective solution with less downtime and discomfort.
If you’re looking for a safe and effective treatment for chronic hemorrhoids that offers a much easier recovery, consider HAE from the doctors at Precision IR. As always, we encourage you to do your own research and listen to what patients have to say about all of the treatment options before you decide on the one that’s right for you.
