Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Treatment of Traumatic Hepatic Hemorrhage

Objective To evaluate the clinical effectiveness,indications and complications of transcatheter arterial embolization in the treatment of the patients with traumatic hepatic hemorrhage.Materials and Methods Retrospective review was conducted on 50 patients with traumatic hepatic bleeding who were confirmed by B ultrasound and CT at our institution from August,2000 to August 2010.All patients underwent hepatic arterial angiography and followed by superselective transarterial embolization with gelfoam particles or steel coil.The effectiveness was assessed by normal life signs.Results Among 50 cases,9 cases were embolized by gelfoam particles,41 cases were embolized by gelatine particles and steel coils.Bleeding stopped immediately in 47 patients,except 3 cases with recurrent bleeding within 12-72 hours after transcatheter arterial embolization therapy,and second arterial embolization were performed in 3 cases with recurrent bleeding,2 cases recovered completely,and the other died of hepatic abscess and severe abdominal infection 2 weeks after the second embolization.No recurrence of bleeding or serious complications were observed in 49 patients during 3 months to 3 years of followed up.Conclusion Transcatheter arterial embolization is an effective and safe procedure in the treatment of traumatic hepatic hemorrhage.