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Embolization

Embolization
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Embolization is an interventional radiology procedure that uses special liquids, small particles and specially shaped pieces of metal called coils to block the flow of blood through abnormal or damaged blood vessels. This reduces or eliminates pain or bleeding.

Your child may need to undergo this procedure if he or she has the following:

  • Varicocele. A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. This can affect the growth of the testicles. Embolization can be performed on the large vein leading into the scrotum to shrink the varicocele.
  • Organ trauma. When there is damage or bleeding in the liver, kidney or spleen, embolization can be used to stop the bleeding. Embolization can also be used to stop bleeding within the pelvis caused by fractures.
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding (bleeding from the intestines). Trauma, an ulcer or a tumor can cause gastrointestinal bleeding. Embolization can be used to stop the bleeding.
  • Vascular malformation or hemangioma. Embolization can be used to scar a vascular malformation or hemangioma so that it no longer functions or grows.

Embolization is only done on expendable blood vessels. These blood vessels are not essential; the body can effectively circulate blood through nearby vessels. The procedure normally takes about one to two hours, including any sedation or anesthesia your child may need.

What to Expect

What to Expect

Embolization includes the following steps:

  • Your child will be given a sedative or put to sleep and monitored closely by an anesthesiologist.
  • The interventional radiologist will use a needle to inject a dye called contrast into the affected blood vessel. The dye helps produce clearer X-ray images of the vessel.
  • The interventional radiologist will make a small incision in the skin and guide a catheter through the incision into the affected blood vessel.
  • The embolization material is delivered to the affected blood vessel through the catheter.
  • The catheter is removed, and the incision is dressed with a clean bandage.
  • Once the procedure is complete, your child will be taken to a recovery room to wake up.
  • Depending on your child's condition, he or she may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two. Patients being treated for a varicocele or a vascular malformation may go home the same day.
  • The treatment may cause some pain which will fade in a day or two. Your child may receive pain medicine to minimize discomfort.

Though interventional radiology procedures have fewer risks than traditional surgeries, embolization still carries some risk. Sometimes the incision may bleed and, in rare cases, infection is possible. It is possible that the embolization liquid will migrate to a part of the blood vessel where it is not wanted. Occasionally, a child will have a combination of fever, pain and vomiting, which is called post-embolization syndrome. An allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during the procedure is also a possible but rare occurrence.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points to Remember

  • Embolization is used to block blood vessels to stop pain and bleeding in the vessels.
  • Your child will be sedated or under anesthesia during an embolization procedure.
  • Depending on your child's condition, he or she may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two. Patients being treated for a varicocele or a vascular malformation may go home the same day.

Locations

Locations

Locations

In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.

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Related Conditions & Departments

Related Conditions & Departments

Conditions

  • Infantile Hemangiomas
  • Peptic Ulcers, Gastritis & Helicobacter Pylori

Departments

  • Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
  • Radiology & Imaging
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Designated as Best Children's Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, Ranked in 10 Specialties in 2020-21

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