Embolization: Arterial, AVM, and Tumor
Definition
A non-surgical minimally invasive procedure that involves the threading of a small catheter or tube in a blood vessel in the groin which is then navigated to blood vessels in the brain to create an emboli or block blood flow. Small coils or detachable silicon balloons are guided through the arteries to stop the blood flow to an area of the brain or body in order to shrink tumors, prevent blood clots, or stop an aneurysm.
Parts of Body Involved
There are many different types of embolizations. The UPMC Minimally Invasive endoNeurosurgery Center focuses specifically on arterial, arteriovenous (AVM), and brain tumor embolizations. The center focuses specifically on brain conditions. The procedure will, however, begin in your groin area. The rest of the procedure happens internally.
Reasons for Procedure
There are many reasons one may have an embolization procedure. Embolizations are used to treat aneurisms, epistaxis, AVM’s, and tumors. Embolizations are used to treat tumors when a tumor is being fed by an artery. Cutting off the blood supply will stop the tumor from receiving nutrients and growing. Not all patients are good candidates for this procedure, if you are one of those patients your doctor will talk to you about other surgical options.
Risk Factors
All surgical procedures come with the possibility of complications or risk factors. Although these are rare it is important to be aware of risks associated with surgery. Ask your doctor to go over all surgical risks with you.
What to Expect
- Before Surgery
Prior to your procedure your doctor will give you instructions for you to follow. Please follow your doctor’s orders. Typically patients will be asked to not eat or drink after midnight the day before their surgery.
- During Surgery
This procedure is minimally invasive and considered endovascular by nature. It is common for patients to have the procedure with little or no sedation only using a general anesthetic. Using some sort of tracking technology the doctor will navigate the tube or catheter through the groin to the area of the body needing the blood flow blocked. Depending on the where the problem area is on the body the procedure can be time consuming. Once the doctor has reached the part of the body needing the artificial emboli the small coils or silicon balloons will be placed to block the blood flow.
- After Surgery
Patients may be asked to stay over night or may be able to return home the same day of the procedure. Ask your doctor what after surgery plan should be followed to ensure a speedy and healthy recovery.
Call Doctor if:
You experience any major pain or problems after surgery or returning home go to the emergency room immediately and contact your doctor. Though side effects are rare it is important to be prepared if an emergency occurs.