Rectal Artery Embolization for Hemorrhoidal Disease: Anatomy, Evaluation, and Treatment Techniques

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Vascular Surgery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Chronic hemorrhoidal disease is a prevalent anorectal condition causing significant morbidity and socioeconomic impact.
• Rectal bleeding is a primary symptom, potentially leading to anemia and reduced quality of life.
• Standard treatments include conservative measures, medications, and surgical interventions like hemorrhoidectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the principles of embolization of rectal arteries (emborrhoid) for treating chronic hemorrhoidal disease.
• To highlight emborrhoid as a novel, effective, and minimally invasive treatment option.
• To discuss patient evaluation, relevant arterial anatomy, embolization techniques, and reported outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Emborrhoid involves transcatheter embolization of superior rectal arteries via femoral or radial access.
• Microcatheters are used to access and embolize the target arteries.
• Various embolic agents can be employed to occlude the vessels.

Main Results:

• Emborrhoid has emerged as an effective treatment with few reported adverse effects and minimal blood loss.
• The procedure is typically performed on a same-day basis.
• Studies indicate symptom improvement and high technical success rates following emborrhoid treatment.

Conclusions:

• Emborrhoid represents a promising alternative treatment for chronic hemorrhoidal disease.
• Understanding the procedural principles is crucial for successful patient outcomes.
• This minimally invasive approach offers significant benefits over traditional treatments.