Clinical observation on coil embolization in treatment of hepatic arterial pseudoaneurysm

Objective: To discuss the method, mid-long term clinical therapeutic effect and safety of coil embolization in treating patients with hepatic arterial pseudoaneurysm (HAPA). Methods: Seven patients with repeatedly massive hemorrhage of gastrointestinal tract were undertaken DSA of celiac arteries and hepatic arteries and embolization of the feeding artery by coils or microcoils after correct diagnosis. All cases underwent follow-up from 6 to 60 months(mean 38). Results: The blood loss before angiography was ranged from 1200 to 4 000 (mean 2 385) ml. There were 3 cases with normal hepatic function and 4 with hepatic dysfunction including ALT increase in 2 and obstructive jaundice in another. Digital substraction angiography (DSA) clearly showed the location, shape and feeding arteries of HAPA. There were 2 types of HAPA namely intrahepatic (n=3)and extrahepatic (n=4), adding one case with arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Embolization was successful in all cases by coils (n=13) or microcoils (n=12). No recurrence and any definite clinical complication occurred during follow-up. Conclusion: Coil embolization in treating HAPA is safe and effective with mid-long term positive clinical therapeutic efficiency without severe complications. (authors)