Bronchial Artery Embolization for treatment of Haemoptysis from Cavitary lung lesions

Abstract

emoptysis is still a frequent symptom, being bronchiectasis and lung abscess their main causes of cavitary lesions leading to hemoptysis according to our study. BAE is an established technique in the management of patients with life-threatening hemoptysis. It is also used in cases of recurrent mild to moderate hemoptysis that has not responded to medical therapy. The more widespread availability of bronchial artery embolization has led to a shift in the management of life-threatening hemoptysis. BAE is considered a substitute to surgical resection in the acute setting. Recurrence rate following BAE remains high. So surgical treatment remains the definitive treatment in some of cases like aspergilloma yet decreased mortality whereas BAE is an effective therapeutic tool. It is important to embolize non-bronchial systemic arteries at the same setting, if they are not free angiographically to avoid early recurrence rate. Advancements in angiographic equipment and technique continue to improve success rates, and with careful technique, it can be performed safely and with minimal risk. Embolization distal to the spinal artery may significantly decrease the number of complications.