Hemostatic Embolization

Background and indications

Hemostatic embolization is performed urgently for active bleeding uncontrollable by medical treatments. Main indications include: gastrointestinal hemorrhage, post-traumatic bleeding (spleen, liver, kidney, pelvis), hemoptysis, postpartum hemorrhage and post-surgical bleeding.

Benefits

Embolization enables rapid and targeted bleeding control without open surgery. It is often lifesaving and represents first-line treatment in many hemorrhagic situations.

Procedure

In emergency, under local anesthesia (sometimes general depending on patient condition), a catheter is introduced via the femoral or radial artery and guided by fluoroscopy to the bleeding artery. The radiologist injects an embolization agent (particles, coils, glue, gelatin) to occlude the bleeding vessel. The procedure lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Risks

Non-target embolization potentially causing organ ischemia. Puncture site hematoma. Recurrent bleeding requiring repeat embolization or surgery. Contrast-induced kidney injury is possible.

Recovery and follow-up

Monitoring in intensive or intermediate care depending on severity. Laboratory and sometimes imaging follow-up within 24-48 hours. Hospital stay depends on underlying condition.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).