Transarterial embolization for postoperative massive hemorrhage in patients with abdominal tumors

Objective: To discuss the feasibility and effectiveness of transarterial embolization for the management of postoperative massive hemorrhage in patients with abdominal tumors. Methods: Between January 2004 and December 2009 in authors' hospital transarterial embolization for postoperative massive hemorrhage was performed in thirteen patients with abdominal tumors. The clinical data and the technical points were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Of 13 patients,the bleeding was completely controlled in 10 after single embolization procedure. Re-bleeding occurred in the other 3 patients, and angiography showed the new bleeding arteries. Trans arterial embolization was carried out again, and the bleeding was successfully stopped in 2 patients. The remaining one patient had to be treated with surgery as the microcatheter could not be super-selectively placed into the bleeding vessel. The overall clinical success rate of trans arterial embolization for postoperative massive hemorrhage was 92% (12 /13). No severe complications occurred. Conclusion: Trans arterial embolization is a safe and effective treatment for postoperative massive hemorrhage in patients with abdominal tumors. (authors)