Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)
Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment in Kansas City & Independence, MO
Searching for hemorrhoid treatment near me that isn’t surgery? HAE is a minimally invasive, outpatient alternative to hemorrhoidectomy for bleeding internal hemorrhoids — performed right here at MIVA Medical, serving Kansas City and all of Missouri.
A 10-page guide covering hemorrhoid symptoms, treatment comparisons, and what to expect — yours to keep.
What Are Internal Hemorrhoids?
Internal hemorrhoids are vascular structures that arise within the anus and, when enlarged, can bleed or prolapse into the anal canal. This can cause lifestyle-limiting symptoms such as painless rectal bleeding, intermittent protrusion of the hemorrhoid during a bowel movement (typically reducible), and occasionally pain if the protruding hemorrhoid becomes stuck and thrombosed (clotted).
A standard grading system determines severity — from small grade 1 hemorrhoids that don’t prolapse through the anal canal, to larger grade 4 hemorrhoids that cannot be reduced back in. Internal hemorrhoids differ from external hemorrhoids, located at the outer portion of the anus, which tend to be more associated with pain.
Hemorrhoid disease is one of the most common anorectal conditions in the United States, affecting roughly half of adults at some point in their lives. Higher rates are seen in people over age 45, with an association to chronic constipation, obesity, and advancing age.
Common Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhoids
- Painless rectal bleeding
- Protrusion during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pressure or fullness in the rectum
- Pain if a hemorrhoid becomes thrombosed
- Mucus discharge
What Is the Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) Procedure?
HAE is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses state-of-the-art imaging to target and block the blood vessels feeding internal hemorrhoids. Blocking these vessels with biocompatible beads and/or microcoils causes the hemorrhoids to shrink and stop bleeding.
The procedure is performed through the artery of the groin or left wrist — using a tiny catheter and image guidance, the target blood vessels are selected for treatment. HAE is done on an outpatient basis using conscious (moderate) sedation and takes approximately 30–45 minutes to complete.
Recovery is quick, with minimal side effects and faster recovery than surgery. Because there’s no surgical instrumentation through the anus, the anal sphincter is fully preserved. Published studies report high technical success rates, with favorable short-term results and promising evidence for longer-term relief — making HAE an attractive option for those who aren’t surgical candidates or simply prefer to avoid traditional surgery.
A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure that physically removes hemorrhoidal tissue — effective, but involving anal incisions, a notably painful recovery, and time away from normal activity. HAE takes a non-surgical approach instead: rather than removing tissue, it cuts off the blood supply feeding the hemorrhoids from the inside, with no cutting or instrumentation through the anus at all. For patients who want to avoid the pain and downtime associated with surgical hemorrhoid removal, HAE offers a meaningfully different path to relief.
Why Choose MIVA Medical For Your Hemorrhoid Treatment?
Non-Surgical, No Anal Instrumentation
HAE preserves the anal sphincter entirely — no cutting, banding, or surgical instrumentation through the anus.
Same-Day Procedure, Outpatient
Once your consultation and workup are complete, HAE itself takes about 30–45 minutes under moderate sedation, with quick recovery and minimal downtime.
Board-Certified Specialists
Experienced interventional radiologists build an individualized care plan for every patient. Meet our doctors.
Your initial consultation is typically with Maddie Fennessey, NP, who works closely with Dr. Williams and Dr. Brown to build your care plan — a physician consultation can also be requested based on availability. Please note: MIVA Medical does not perform diagnostic imaging in-house; imaging is completed at an outside imaging center prior to treatment. MIVA Medical also offers uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), prostate artery embolization (PAE), and geniculate artery embolization (GAE) — read what our patients say on our reviews page.
Serving Hemorrhoid Patients Across the Kansas City Metro
MIVA Medical’s Independence, MO clinic provides hemorrhoid artery embolization for patients throughout the greater Kansas City area, including Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, Grain Valley, Raytown, Overland Park, and Kansas City, MO & KS. If you’ve been searching for an HAE specialist or non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment near you, our board-certified team is close by and taking new patients.
Looking for a hemorrhoid specialist in Lee’s Summit? Patients from Lee’s Summit choose MIVA Medical for HAE because our Independence, MO clinic keeps your consultation and treatment personal and close to home.
Hemorrhoid treatment in Blue Springs, MO is one of our most common referral areas — if bleeding or discomfort has been affecting your life, our team can evaluate whether HAE is right for you.
Considering HAE in Overland Park? Many Overland Park and Johnson County patients travel to MIVA Medical specifically for a non-surgical approach to hemorrhoid treatment.
Searching for a hemorrhoid doctor in Independence, Missouri? MIVA Medical is based right here in Independence, serving our own community first — whether you’re looking for internal hemorrhoid treatment without surgery or relief from bleeding hemorrhoids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MIVA the right place for hemorrhoid treatment (HAE)?
Treatment of internal hemorrhoids begins with a clinical evaluation and review of any pertinent imaging. Patients who haven’t improved despite conservative measures — increasing dietary fiber intake, avoiding straining during bowel movements, limiting time on the toilet, and ensuring adequate hydration — may be suitable candidates for HAE, especially if they aren’t surgical candidates due to comorbidities or simply prefer a non-surgical option.
Is it possible to get back on my feet quickly?
Recovery time varies by therapy type, but most patients report minimal downtime. We advise avoiding heavy lifting for the first 5 days after treatment; aside from that, you’re free to resume your regular physical activity.
Is HAE a common alternative to surgical treatment for hemorrhoids?
For many patients suffering from bleeding internal hemorrhoids, the idea of surgery through the anus is daunting. Hemorrhoid artery embolization is a minimally invasive option that’s now commonly performed when conservative therapy fails, offering a viable alternative to surgery with shorter recovery and minimal side effects. While it may not be right for everyone, HAE offers a promising path for those looking to avoid more extensive surgery. As with any medical treatment, consult with an interventional radiology specialist to determine if HAE is right for you.
How effective is HAE at treating internal hemorrhoids?
Published clinical studies report technical success and symptom improvement rates commonly cited in the 70–90% range, with some studies reporting even higher rates for reducing bleeding specifically. Results can vary based on hemorrhoid grade and individual health factors, which is why a personalized evaluation matters.
What grades of hemorrhoids can be treated with HAE?
HAE is typically recommended for symptomatic grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids with predominant bleeding symptoms. Grade 4 hemorrhoids, which cannot be reduced back into the anal canal, may require a different approach — your care team will review your specific case and imaging to determine candidacy.
What are the risks or side effects of HAE?
HAE has a favorable safety profile, with no impact on anal sphincter tone or function since there’s no instrumentation through the anus. Reported side effects are generally mild, such as minor discomfort at the access site. Serious complications are uncommon. Your care team will review your individual risk factors during your consultation.
Is HAE covered by insurance?
Coverage for HAE can vary by specific insurance plan and provider. Our team works with you and your insurance company to review coverage details, including any preauthorization requirements, before scheduling your procedure.
Where can I find hemorrhoid artery embolization near Kansas City?
MIVA Medical performs HAE at our Independence, MO clinic, serving patients throughout the greater Kansas City metro. Book a consultation or take our HAE quiz to see if you’re a candidate.
Related Reading From Our Blog
Internal vs. External Hemorrhoids: What’s the Difference?
Not all hemorrhoids are the same — learn how to tell the two types apart and why it matters for treatment.
HAE vs. Other Hemorrhoid Treatment Options
How hemorrhoid artery embolization compares to banding, sclerotherapy, and surgery.
HAE Recovery: What to Expect Day by Day
A realistic, day-by-day look at what recovery actually looks like after HAE.
Can Hemorrhoids Come Back After HAE?
An honest look at recurrence, and how HAE compares to other treatments long-term.
Take a Quiz to Learn if HAE Is Right For You
Answer a few quick questions to see if you may be a candidate for Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization at MIVA Medical.