Decrease the size of congenital venous malformations (a tangle of veins that did not develop into a normal straight vein) in order to decrease pain, swelling and clot formation.Ĭatheter embolization may be used alone or combined with other treatments such as surgery or radiation.See the Varicocele Embolization page for more information. Treat varicoceles (enlarged veins) in the scrotum that may be a cause of infertility.Treat aneurysms (a bulge or sac formed in a weak artery wall) by either blocking an artery supplying the aneurysm or closing the aneurysmal sac itself as an alternative to surgery.These passageways, which may occur anywhere in the body including the brain or spinal cord, act like a short circuit to prevent blood from fully circulating and delivering oxygen where it is needed. Eliminate an arteriovenous malformation or arteriovenous fistula (AVF) (abnormal connection or connections between arteries and veins).After embolization a tumor may shrink or it may continue to grow but more slowly, making chemotherapy or surgery a more effective option. Embolization may also be used to administer chemotherapy. Close off vessels that are supplying blood to a tumor, especially when the tumor is difficult or impossible to remove.See the Uterine Fibroid Treatment page for more information.Ĭatheter embolization is also performed to: Because fibroids have a large blood supply, embolization can shrink and control heavy menstrual bleeding by interrupting the blood supply. Embolization may prove to be an excellent alternative to hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus. Long menstrual periods or heavy menstrual bleeding that results from uterine fibroid tumors.Embolization can help reduce the pain associated with tumor bleeding. Catheter embolization can be used to eliminate these abnormal connections. For example, abnormal vascular channels can form in between arteries and veins in the circulatory system of the lungs. Embolization is commonly the first line of treatment in gastrointestinal bleeding of any cause. Bleeding from gastrointestinal tract lesions such as ulcer or diverticular disease.Controlling bleeding into the abdomen or pelvis from injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident is especially suitable for this treatment. Bleeding that results from a traumatic injury.Common health problems that can be treated using catheter embolization include: What are some common uses of the procedure?Ĭatheter embolization can be applied to almost any part of the body to control or prevent abnormal bleeding. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You also may be told not to eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure. You may be advised to stop taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or blood thinners several days prior to your procedure. Tell your doctor if there's a possibility you are pregnant and discuss any recent illnesses, medical conditions, allergies and medications you're taking, including herbal supplements and aspirin. Your doctor will instruct you on how to prepare, including any changes to your medication schedule. Embolization is a highly effective way to control bleeding and is much less invasive than open surgery. It may be used to control or prevent abnormal bleeding, close off vessels supplying blood to a tumor, eliminate abnormal connections between arteries and veins, or to treat aneurysms. Catheter embolization places medications or synthetic materials called embolic agents through a catheter into a blood vessel to block blood flow to an area of the body.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |