Trans-radial superior rectal artery embolisation for bleeding haemorrhoids
Official title: Pilot Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Trans-radial Superior Rectal Artery Embolisation for the Treatment of Haemorrhoids
Run by University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust · NCT06175325 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This pilot will try a minimally invasive trans‑radial embolisation of the superior rectal artery to stop bleeding in adults with grade II–IV haemorrhoids who do not want or cannot have surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Stoke-on-Trent) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 17, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 3, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06175325 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults (≥18) with recurrent or active bleeding from grade II–IV haemorrhoids who are fit for an endovascular procedure and who decline or have failed surgical treatment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, unfit for surgery, have significant anorectal comorbidities (cancer, fistula, abscess), prior colectomy, a significant allergy to iodinated contrast, or who cannot give informed consent are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a single-centre pilot enrolling 20 adults with recurrent or active bleeding from grade II–IV haemorrhoids for a day‑case transarterial embolisation performed under local anaesthetic via radial artery access. The procedure targets the superior rectal arterial supply to reduce haemorrhoidal blood flow and bleeding. Participants will be followed for 24 months to record safety, symptom control, and resource use, including an analysis of potential cost savings. Findings are intended to inform a national registry and further larger studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide a less invasive day‑case option with lower morbidity and potential cost savings compared with conventional surgery.
How similar studies have gone: Endovascular embolisation is already used for acute bleeding haemorrhoids and small series report safety and symptom improvement, but elective transarterial embolisation remains supported mainly by limited pilot data.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Patients eligible for the study must comply with all of the following prior to enrolment: * Patients with grade II-IV haemorrhoid disease with re-current or active bleeding * Patients with (i) who do not wish to undergo surgery for their symptoms * Patients with (i) despite recent surgery * Patients willing and able to give fully informed consent * Patients aged ≥18 years Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who are not otherwise fit for surgery * Patients with significant ano-rectal comorbidities (cancer, fistula, abscesses) * Patient who are unable to sign the informed consent form. * Patients who are pregnant (completed as part of standard IRMER protocol) * Patients with history of significant colorectal disease or previous colectomy. * Patients with history of an allergic reaction to x-ray contrast * Patients who are currently involved in research
Where it's running
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University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust
Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.