What it is
This is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure. Hemorrhoid embolization reduces blood flow to internal hemorrhoids through the rectal arteries that supply them. With less blood flow, hemorrhoids may shrink and bleed less.
Who may be a candidate
This procedure may help:
- Adults with bleeding internal hemorrhoids that have not improved with diet changes, medicines or office treatments
- People who want to avoid an incision or a longer recovery
- People who are not good candidates for other hemorrhoid treatments
Whether it fits you is decided after a review of your history, exam and imaging.
How it works
You receive local anesthesia with mild sedation. Dr. Gibbens places a thin catheter at the wrist or groin and guides it with X-ray imaging to the arteries that supply the hemorrhoids. Tiny coils or particles are placed to reduce blood flow.
Why choose this option
- Done through a thin catheter, with no large incision
- Guided by live X-ray imaging
- Outpatient care, and most people go home the same day
- Performed by Dr. Gibbens, board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine
Recovery
Most people go home the same day and return to light activity within a day or two. Mild discomfort is possible. Your physician will check how bleeding and other symptoms respond at follow-up.
Who performs the procedure
Interventional radiologist, board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. Dr. Gibbens performs the embolization and other interventional radiology procedures listed on this site, at Bey Lea ASC (54 Bey Lea Road, Building 2, Toms River). Your evaluation and follow-up take place at any of our 7 GSMC offices.
Patient handout
Frequently asked questions
Is this procedure surgery?
No. It is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure done through a thin tube (catheter) placed in a blood vessel at the wrist or groin. There is no large incision.
Who performs it?
Douglas Gibbens, MD, an interventional radiologist board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, performs this procedure at Bey Lea ASC in Toms River.
Will I go home the same day?
Most people go home the same day after a period of rest and monitoring. Plan to have an adult drive you home.
Is hemorrhoid embolization painful?
Most people feel little or no pain afterward, because the treatment works through the arteries rather than at the anus.
What about my medicines?
Our team reviews your medicines before the procedure. Do not stop a blood thinner unless the doctor who prescribes it approves.
Does insurance cover it?
Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis. Our team will check your plan and talk with you about costs before anything is scheduled.
How do I find out if I am a candidate?
Request a consultation or call 732-202-3000. Your evaluation includes a review of your history and imaging, and a talk about all of your options.
More interventional radiology procedures
Request a consultation
Talk with our team about whether hemorrhoid embolization may fit your goals. This page is general education and is not medical advice.