(214) 841-3004 712 N Washington Dallas, Texas 75246

Artery Embolization

Embolization is the intentional occlusion, or blocking, or arteries or veins to treat various disorders such as aneurysms, tumors, fistulas, and others. This is done through a small skin puncture under X-ray guidance, and is used only on blood vessels which are believed not be completely necessary for important functions due the presence of other sources of adequate blood supply, or because the tissues supplied by the vessels are abnormal or not necessary. The blockage may be achieved by a variety of different tools such as tiny beads, wire coils, or liquids which harden once they are injected into proper position.

 

Typical Experience

  • Artery embolization will be performed in the interventional suite while you are receiving sedation and opiate analgesia (“twilight anesthesia”). Most patients will not receive general anesthesia (no tube for breathing and no ventilator). The procedure is done through a very small hole and usually involves little pain.
  • After the procedure, you will be able to eat and drink while you rest in bed for several hours. Most patients are discharged later the same day although this depends on your condition and artery treated.
  • Most patients are instructed to perform only light activity for about 2 days, although this may vary on your condition and artery treated.
  • As with any major procedure, minor or major complications are possible. Above is simply a brief description of a typical experience, and a full explanation of the procedure and its risks will be provided when you visit your doctor before the procedure. You may also refer to the links below under ‘Resources’.

 

How to Prepare

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before procedure, except for sips of water with your usual medications.
  • Bring your medications and anything you need to stay overnight even if you will most likely be discharged the same day.
  • Please take your usual medications except for blood thinners.
  • Report to Jonsson Admitting (first floor of Jonsson building at the Baylor University Medical Center) in the morning at the time given to you by our office.
  • Plan to have somebody else drive you home.
  • If you are allergic to X-ray dye (contrast material), please inform our office days in advance and make certain you obtain and take the prescribed pre-medications (Methylprednisolone [prescription] and Benadryl [OTC]).

 

Resources

For more details about this procedure and its possible risks, please schedule an appointment with one of our physicians at 214-827-1600. You may also refer to the following discussions:

Image Guided Minimally Invasive Treatment – British Society of Interventional Radiology