Hemorrhoid Embolization vs. Traditional Surgery: Which Is Better?

Of the entire population on Earth, 50% to 60% individuals, and particularly men, complain about hemorrhoids. To treat the pain and discomfort they cause, a variety of treatment options are available. Each has different benefits. The Hemorrhoid Embolization procedure is one of the newest and most advanced alternatives to conventional surgical procedures. When it comes to treating hemorrhoids, it is essential to be aware of the differences between hemorrhoid embolization and traditional surgery. We will explore each of these options in this blog post and determine which one is the best fit for your case.

Hemorrhoids: What Are They?

We do not want you to rush to know the treatment options. First, let’s understand the problem at hand. Hemorrhoids are veins in the lower rectum or the anus that swell. In severe cases, patients may experience symptoms such as itching, pain, and bleeding. Some cases are worse, where they can even stick out through the anus. What really causes hemorrhoids is increased pressure in the lower rectum. It can be because of pregnancy, prolonged sitting, straining during bowel movements, or obesity.

Traditional Hemorrhoid Surgery

Hemorrhoidectomy or traditional hemorrhoid surgery was the popular mode of treatment of more severe cases of hemorrhoid for years. This is done by surgically removing the hemorrhoids that require the use of general anesthesia, and it usually takes a long time to heal.

Advantages of Traditional Surgery:

• Long-Term Relief: Hemorrhoidectomy usually relieves the patient of hemorrhoids for a long time as the tissue is totally excised.
• Proven Track Record: Hemorrhoidectomy is a well-established procedure with predictable outcomes.

Disadvantages:

• Recovery That Is Painful: The most significant downside of regular surgery is the lengthy recovery time. Post-surgical pain in many patients is severe and takes weeks before the patient fully heals.
• Complication Risks: As with any other surgery, certain risks may arise, including infection, excessive bleeding, and anesthetic reaction.
• Long-term Recovery: Patients must take a long leave from their job and limit the amount of movement during recovery. This is not an option for people with a tight schedule or those who have a job that requires extensive physical activity.

The surgery might work well, but the disadvantages usually leave the patient seeking less invasive alternatives.

Hemorrhoid Embolization Procedure

A modern and life-changing hemorrhoid treatment, clinically called Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE), has found immense popularity in recent years. This is a less invasive procedure where the flow of blood to the arteries causing the hemorrhoid is blocked in order to shrink the hemorrhoid and relieve symptoms. This is performed under local anesthesia and is followed by a relatively brief recovery period.

Understanding the Hemorrhoid Embolization Technique

The purpose of the hemorrhoid embolization procedure is to block the lifeline to the hemorrhoid. A catheter is inserted into the artery that supplies blood, and small particles are inserted to block the path. The doctor uses imaging guidance to place tiny particles in the artery, which block the blood flow to the hemorrhoid. In the absence of blood flow, the hemorrhoid tissue contracts and eventually heals. It is a procedure that can be completed in 30 to 60 minutes, and the majority of patients can go home after the procedure.

Advantages of Hemorrhoid Embolization

• Requirement of Fewer Surgical Tools: The procedure for hemorrhoid embolization does not require special surgical tools that are often used in the traditional method, making it a less invasive procedure.
• Faster Recovery Time: Patients typically do not require a prolonged leave. The recovery typically takes no more than a week.
• Typically Less Painful: This is a minor surgical procedure that involves no tissue removal, which is why the pain is typically less. It is a more comfortable procedure to choose.
• No Future Risks: Hemorrhoid embolization does not involve cutting or excision of the tissue. This reduces the risk of infections or incontinence. 

Disadvantages

• Less Preferred in Severe Cases: Hemorrhoid embolization is effective in many patients; however, it is not recommended for severe cases. However, it is not always the best option when the case is severe. If the hemorrhoids are large, a surgical excision may be necessary.
• Lack of Extensive Proof: As discussed above, this is a relatively new procedure. There is not much long-term data regarding the effectiveness of hemorrhoid embolization.

Hemorrhoid Embolization Vs. Traditional Surgery

The hemorrhoid embolization technique and conventional hemorrhoid surgery are both viable options, but the major difference between the two is the level of invasiveness and the recovery period.

Factor	Hemorrhoid Embolization	Traditional Surgery
Invasiveness	Performed using a catheterThe artery that feeds the hemorrhoids is blocked by inserting small particlesLess invasive	Involves cutting and removing tissueSutures are used to stitchMore invasive and requires mental preparation
Recovery Time	Requires 24 to 48 hours maximum for patients to return to their usual routineThe recovery is comparatively comfortable	Recovery takes weeks or a little more than a monthThe patient experiences severe pain and must follow certain restrictions
Pain and Discomfort	Minimal painOver-the-counter medications are prescribed to lessen the discomfort	Highly painful after the surgeryStrong pain medications are usually prescribed
Effectiveness	Effective when hemorrhoids are small or mediumAn option when other treatments did not work	Proven, long-term resultsRecommended when hemorrhoids are large and the case is severe

Which is Better For You?

Finding out whether you should opt for hemorrhoid artery embolization or traditional surgery depends on three factors:

• How serious is your problem
• Your overall health status
• Personal preferences

Hemorrhoid embolization is the right choice if you are seeking a quick and less invasive procedure. It is most effective on mild to moderate bleeding hemorrhoids. However, if your hemorrhoids are large and the case is complicated, long-term effective traditional surgery is best. It is always considered most effective when other procedures have failed.

The right path to choosing a procedure is consulting a vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist. Specialists take meticulous care to first study the size and type of hemorrhoids. A customized strategy is then made to ensure your treatment meets your personal preference and is best suited to your health.

Conclusion

There are advantages and disadvantages to both the hemorrhoid embolization technique and the traditional surgery. The effectiveness, benefits, need for less equipment, and fast recovery have made the hemorrhoid embolization procedure a more preferred option in recent years. It is often favored because of the less painful and faster recovery journey.

Experts around the globe still recommend traditional surgery as the most effective choice in complicated and severe cases. One can only find the right path after consultation with a specialist. South Florida Vascular Associates will help you understand your situation in depth and discuss the option that best suits your case.

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