Bronchial artery embolization in hemoptysis

Massive hemoptysis is one of the most dreaded of all respiratory emergencies and can have a variety of underlying causes. It is mostly caused by bleeding from bronchial circulation. Bronchial artery embolization is now considered to be the treatment of choice for acute massive hemoptysis. Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is a safe and effective nonsurgical treatment for patients with massive hemoptysis. However, nonbronchial systemic arteries can be a significant source of massive hemoptysis and a cause of recurrence after successful BAE. So knowledge of the bronchial artery anatomy, together with an understanding of the pathophysiologic features of massive hemoptysis, are essential for planning and performing BAE in affected patients. In addition, interventional radiologists should be familiar with the techniques, results, efficacy, safety and possible complications of BAE and with the characteristics of the various embolic agents. Bronchial arterial catheterisation in human via a percutaneous approach has been practiced for 32 years (1973) in the world and 20 years (1986) in China, initially for direct chemotherapy treatment for bronchial malignancies and then for the embolization of patients with massive haemoptysis. A review of clinical experience to evaluate technique,embolic materials,outcome and complications of BAE is presented.