Hemorrhoids affect about half of men and women over the age of 50. Sometimes, hemorrhoids can be treated effectively through dietary and behavioral changes. Still, when hemorrhoids cause bleeding, pain, or other complications, the patient may need to see a gastroenterologist for consultation.
Hemorrhoid embolization is a painless, non-invasive alternative when other treatments are unsuccessful. A consultation with an interventional radiologist can determine whether this method is appropriate for the patient’s condition.
What is hemorrhoid embolization treatment?
Hemorrhoid embolization is an advanced and effective non-surgical solution for reducing the size of hemorrhoids. This treatment reduces blood flow to the affected tissue, leading to its gradual shrinkage without incisions or significant surgical intervention. It is ideal for patients who suffer from hemorrhoids but want to avoid traditional surgical procedures.
Hemorrhoid embolization is a type of interventional radiology treatment that carries little risk because it is a non-invasive, safe, and highly effective treatment that shrinks hemorrhoids by blocking the artery that supplies them with blood. The procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist, who uses small instruments and imaging to perform the procedure. Patients go home the same day of the procedure with a plaster bandage instead of a large incision.
How does hemorrhoid embolization work?
Hemorrhoids are treated with embolization through a simple procedure in which an interventional radiologist guides a catheter through the femoral artery toward the blood vessels that feed the hemorrhoids. The path of the blood vessels and the catheter is precisely identified and guided using X-rays.
Next, unique materials (such as metal coils or small balls) are injected into the blood vessels, which supply blood to the hemorrhoids, block the ship, and reduce blood flow. Then, the microcatheter is removed, and a bandage is applied to the insertion site. The procedure takes one to two hours and is followed by a one-hour recovery period. Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activities the next day, resulting in a gradual reduction in the size of the hemorrhoids and the disappearance of uncomfortable symptoms such as bleeding and pain.
How to prepare for the procedure and what the patient should know
Before undergoing hemorrhoid treatment with embolization, the patient must follow some basic instructions to ensure the procedure’s success. Do not eat or drink after midnight the day before the treatment.
You should also inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, especially those that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin or anticoagulants, as your doctor may recommend stopping them temporarily to minimize the risk of bleeding. Additional medical tests, such as blood tests, are also necessary to assess the clotting status.
The patient should prepare transportation after the procedure. They can go home the same day and avoid strenuous activities for a few days after treatment. By following these instructions, the patient can help ensure the procedure’s success and speed up recovery.
Types of hemorrhoid embolization techniques
Several techniques are used to treat hemorrhoids with embolization:
- Infrared embolization: This technique uses infrared heat to coagulate diseased tissue in the hemorrhoidal area.
- Laser embolization: A laser is used for microcoagulation of enlarged hemorrhoids.
- Drug-induced embolization: Special drugs are injected into the peripheral blood vessels to reduce blood flow and cause contraction.
Advantages of hemorrhoid embolization
This technique is characterized by several advantages that have made it competitive with traditional surgical methods, as it is a procedure:
- Non-surgical: One of the most significant advantages of this treatment is that it doesn’t require any open surgery, which means there are no incisions or scars that can leave long-lasting scars.
- Little pain: The procedure is done under local anesthesia; most patients feel comfortable after treatment.
- It has a quick recovery period. After treatment, patients can return to their daily activities quickly and most likely return to work the next day.
- Highly effective: Studies have shown that more than 90% of patients who underwent this treatment experienced a significant improvement in symptoms after a short treatment period.
Recovery period after hemorrhoid embolization
The recovery period after hemorrhoid embolization treatment is relatively short, and the patient can return home the same day. However, patients are usually advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting for two to three days after treatment. If daily activities are light, they can return to work the next day.
The patient may experience minor pain or discomfort, usually temporary, and can be managed with prescription painkillers. They are also advised to avoid sitting for long periods and pay attention to the hygiene of the treated area.
The recovery period is short and does not require much disruption of daily activities, making embolization an ideal option for those looking for a quick and effective treatment.
Conditions suitable for hemorrhoid embolization
Embolization is an ideal option for treating grade 1 to 3 hemorrhoids, especially in cases with persistent bleeding or severe pain, without the need for surgical intervention. This treatment is especially suitable for patients for whom traditional non-surgical treatments such as topical medications or creams have not been successful.
This technique is less invasive than surgery and aims to shrink the hemorrhoidal tissue by reducing blood flow, which is then used to shrink it. It is suitable for patients who want to avoid the long recovery period and complications that may result from surgery.
In short, Embolization is an effective and safe option for patients with moderate hemorrhoids who want a quick and effective solution without the need for complicated surgical procedures.
Comparison between hemorrhoid embolization and other surgical treatments
When looking for an effective hemorrhoid treatment, options range from non-surgical treatments such as hemorrhoid embolization to surgical procedures such as hemorrhoidectomy and hemorrhoid banding. Embolization is a non-surgical option that uses techniques such as infrared radiation or lasers to stop blood flow to hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink over time. It is relatively painless and has a short recovery period.
On the other hand, hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure used in cases of severe hemorrhoids, where hemorrhoidal tissue is removed under general anesthesia. Although this treatment is the most effective for advanced hemorrhoids, it requires a more extended recovery period of up to 6 weeks. It is accompanied by severe pain after the operation and more significant risks such as bleeding or infection.
Hemorrhoid banding is a safe option for second—and third-degree hemorrhoids. An elastic band cuts off blood flow to the hemorrhoids, causing them to fall off after a short period. This treatment is effective with rare complications, such as minor bleeding, but the patient may feel some mild pain after the treatment.
Choosing the optimal treatment depends on the degree of hemorrhoids and the patient’s condition. Embolization can be an excellent option for mild hemorrhoids, while hemorrhoidectomy may be the most appropriate solution for advanced hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid banding can be the best option for moderate hemorrhoids. It is always best to consult your doctor to determine the most suitable option based on your health condition and needs.
See also: Everything you need to know about hemorrhoid treatment in Turkey
Risks and possible complications of hemorrhoid embolization
Although hemorrhoid embolization treatment is generally a safe procedure, any medical treatment may come with some risks and complications in some cases. It is important to emphasize that these risks are rare, often minor, and efficiently managed. Some of the possible complications that may occur after embolization therapy include
- Slight pain in the groin area: Some patients may experience mild pain after the procedure in the groin area or where the catheter is inserted. This feeling is transient and goes away after a short period. Mild painkillers can relieve the pain if the patient feels discomfort.
- Minor bleeding: Light bleeding at the treatment site is common after many medical procedures. It is usually light, short-lived, and stops independently after a short period. In rare cases, The bleeding may be more severe, so the doctor will take the necessary measures to prevent it quickly.
- Rare complications: Like any medical procedure, rare complications such as infection or swelling at the treatment site may occur. Although these cases are sporadic, they can happen occasionally. If an infection occurs, it can be easily treated with antibiotics. The swelling usually disappears after a short period without further medical intervention.
It is important to remember that these complications are infrequent, and most patients do not experience significant issues after treatment. Our medical team at Bimarestan closely monitors each case to ensure a full recovery and minimize risks. We always ensure patients are comfortable and safe throughout their treatment.
Cost of hemorrhoid embolization treatment in Turkey
The cost of hemorrhoid embolization in Turkey ranges from 1000 to 3000 USD, depending on the city, hospital, and medical team’s expertise. This includes the initial examination, procedure, and hospital fees. Private hospitals may charge slightly more, offering extra services like hotel care or specialist consultations. Turkey is a popular medical destination due to high-quality healthcare and competitive pricing compared to Western countries.
To ensure successful treatment, choosing an internationally licensed and recognized medical center, such as Bimarestan Medical Center, that provides high-quality medical care and experienced doctors specializing in treating hemorrhoids with embolization is essential.
Bimarestan is a leader in interventional radiology treatments, such as hemorrhoid treatment. As one of the leading centers specializing in these treatments in Turkey, we offer our patients highly personalized and precise medical interventions, including techniques, such as embolization, that exceed the expertise of many other medical centers.
Our multidisciplinary medical team is highly professional and experienced in treating various hemorrhoidal conditions. At Bimarestan, we are committed to providing the best treatments using innovative techniques that ensure the comfort and effectiveness of our patients. We are constantly expanding our services to include all aspects of the healthcare needs of hemorrhoid patients, focusing on providing high-quality, integrated medical care at every stage of treatment.
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