Outpatient Transradial Emborrhoid Technique: A Pilot Study.

PURPOSE To determine whether outpatient transradial emborrhoid technique can be performed safely and effectively in the treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids. MATERIALS AND METHODS The transradial emborrhoid technique was used to treat 12 patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids in an outpatient setting during a 4-month period. After percutaneous catheterization of the left radial artery, a 5-Fr sheath was introduced to catheterize the inferior mesenteric artery and a microcatheter was advanced into the branches of the superior rectal artery for embolization with 0.018-inch detachable coils (Interlock and IDC-interlocking detachable coils). After embolization, the sheath was withdrawn and puncture site hemostasis was achieved using a wrist band. All patients were evaluated 6 h after the procedure to determine whether they meet the discharge criteria and were discharged the following day. The results of the emborrhoid treatment were assessed at the 4-week follow-up. RESULTS The emborrhoid technique was successful in all patients. There was no major complication associated with the procedure. All patients met the discharge criteria 6 h after the procedure. Reduction of local edema and of hemorrhoidal congestion was observed in all patients. At the follow-up visit, the mean Rorvik score (HDSS + SHS-HD) decreased from 31.50 (7.50) to 13.11 (8.33) (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Transradial rectal artery embolization is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with chronic symptoms of hemorrhoid disease.