Catheter Embolization
Embolization is a procedure to block a blood vessel. It is done to stop severe bleeding or to stop blood flow to a part of the body. To do this, a thin, flexible tube, called a catheter is put into the specific blood vessel that needs to be blocked. Initially, this would be done after entering an artery or vein in your arm or groin. It is often done by a specialized doctor called an interventional radiologist. This procedure may be done alone or before or after surgery.
Why catheter embolization is done
The procedure may be done to:
- Control bleeding in an emergency
- Block blood flow to a cancerous tumor
- Block blood flow to a uterine fibroid
- Treat arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the brain and body
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What are the risks of catheter embolization
Risks depend upon the part of the body being treated. Talk to your radiologist. Risks include:
- Blood clots
- Damage to an artery
- Stroke
- Death
- Infection or bruising around the catheter insertion site
- Problems due to contrast medium, including allergic reaction or kidney damage
- The chance that the embolic agent could lodge in the wrong place and deprive normal tissue of its oxygen supply
For uterine fibroid embolization risks include:
- Cramping
- Fever
- Cessation of menstrual cycles (rare)
- May affect future fertility
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How to prepare for the procedure
You will be told how to prepare for your procedure. Follow these instructions carefully. Also, do the following:
- Do not to eat or drink before the procedure, as instructed by your doctor.
- Tell the doctor:
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- What medicines you take. This includes herbs and supplements.
- If you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
- If you are allergic to contrast medium (X-ray dye) or other medicines.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. Your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing will be carefully monitored during the procedure.
- An intravenous (IV) line is put into a vein. This is to give you fluid and medicines. You may be given medicine through the IV to help you relax (sedation), or you will be given general anesthesia to put you in a deep sleep through the procedure.
- Medicine will be put on the skin at the insertion site to numb it (local anesthetic).
- A small incision is made over the insertion site. A catheter is put into the blood vessel. It is then moved to the area to be treated.
- Contrast medium is injected through the catheter. This makes the artery and catheter stand out on X-ray pictures. The movement of the catheter is viewed on a video screen.
- A material or medicine is sent through the catheter and goes to the treatment site to create the blockage.
- The procedure is repeated in each blood vessel that needs to be blocked.
- The catheter is then removed. Firm pressure is put on the insertion site for about 15 minutes to stop bleeding.
- The doctor may also use a closure device to stop the bleeding at the insertion site.
What happens after the procedure
- You may be told to lie flat and keep the leg or arm with the insertion site straight for several hours to stop the bleeding. It is very important that you keep your leg or arm straight during this period.
- You may go home the same day or stay in the hospital for one or more nights. If you do not stay in the hospital, you should have a friend or relative assist you home.
- You may have some pain. This can be controlled with medicine.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the X-ray dye out of your body.
- After you go home, care for the insertion site as directed.
- You should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure or as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Follow any instructions you have been given about recovering at home.
- Follow up as recommended by your healthcare provider.