3 Reasons Hemorrhoid Embolization Outperforms Traditional Treatments

By Yosef Golowa, MD, FSIR · Published September 1, 2026 · 2 min read

Hemorrhoids are literally a pain in, or at least near, your buttocks. Like varicose veins that commonly affect legs, hemorrhoids are bulging, enlarged veins that form inside or outside of your rectum and anus.

While small hemorrhoids often diminish on their own, sometimes without causing pain, larger hemorrhoids and recurrent hemorrhoids often require treatment.

Surgery used to be the only way to put an end to severe hemorrhoid challenges. Today, hemorrhoid embolization provides a less invasive option with superior benefits.

With his expert team at our Midtown Manhattan, New York, practice, double board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist Dr. Yosef Golowa specializes in this minimally invasive hemorrhoid treatment. Learn more about hemorrhoidal embolization.

Let’s take a closer look at hemorrhoids, including several advantages of hemorrhoidal embolization.

What causes hemorrhoid flare-ups

Anything that places excess pressure on the veins in your rectum or anus can lead to hemorrhoids. Common risk factors include:

• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Straining, often due to a low-fiber or low-fluid diet
• Sitting on the toilet for lengthy amounts of time
• Having anal intercourse
• Being pregnant
• Carrying excess weight

Once a hemorrhoid forms, particularly an external or large hemorrhoid, you can experience pain, itchiness, and hard lumps in the area. You might also notice blood on your toilet paper following a bowel movement. Sitting can get uncomfortable, too.

How hemorrhoidal embolization works

During hemorrhoidal embolization, Dr. Golowa places a tiny tube (catheter) in your groin, guided by X-ray imagery (fluoroscopy). He then places tiny particles or coils in the affected vein to reduce blood flow and ease pressure. As a result, the tissue shrinks, and your body naturally redirects blood to healthier veins.

Hemorrhoid embolization advantages

Hemorrhoidal embolization outperforms home care that fails to resolve recurrent flare-ups and hemorrhoid surgery. Some of the biggest advantages over surgery include:

• No need for general anesthesia, incisions, or stitches (only a Band-Aid)
• Lower risk of complications and pain
• Minimal recovery, with most people resuming usual activities within 1-2 days

Performed on an outpatient basis, hemorrhoid embolization only takes 1-2 hours. You may need to stay in our office for observation after that, but you’ll still return home the same day.

Hemorrhoid embolization has a success rate of 93-100%. You’ll likely experience less bleeding, swelling, and irritation within 2-4 weeks.

Getting the care you need

If you’re bothered by mild to moderate hemorrhoid symptoms and lifestyle changes haven’t helped, consider hemorrhoidal embolization. The treatment is especially useful for easing chronic hemorrhoid bleeding.

To learn more or find out if you’re a strong candidate, call our office today at (212) 991-9991. You can also book an appointment with Dr. Golowa through our website.