When is embolisation used for bleeding?
Embolisation may be considered for selected gastrointestinal, pelvic, postoperative, post-traumatic or tumour-related bleeding when the bleeding artery can be identified or strongly suspected.
How is the bleeding vessel found?
CT angiography may identify active bleeding before the procedure. Catheter angiography can then define the responsible artery and guide treatment.
How is embolisation performed?
A catheter is advanced close to the bleeding site and embolic material such as coils, particles, gelfoam or liquid embolic agents is delivered to stop the bleeding while preserving as much normal circulation as possible.
Is embolisation always successful?
Success depends on the cause of bleeding, vascular anatomy, coagulation status and whether the bleeding vessel can be accessed. Some patients may still require surgery or repeat intervention.
Why can embolisation be valuable?
In appropriate cases it can control major bleeding without open surgery, which can be particularly useful in high-risk or unstable patients.
Catheter embolisation for intestinal bleeding
Angiography identifying the bleeding vessel followed by targeted glue embolisation. Images are from a representative treated case.
Frequently asked questions
Is angiography only diagnostic?
No. When the bleeding artery is identified, treatment can often be performed during the same angiographic session.
Can embolisation be repeated?
Yes, repeat angiography and embolisation may be required if bleeding recurs or another vessel is responsible.
Is every internal bleed suitable for embolisation?
No. Some causes require surgery, endoscopy or medical management instead. The treatment is selected according to the source and severity of bleeding.