Transcatheter therapeutic embolization in the management of massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Two methods of controlling life-threatening hemorrhage are infusion of vasospastic agents and embolization of the bleeding vessel. Gelfoam powder, Gelfoam sponge, and isobutyl cyanoacrylate have been used to control severe arterial and variceal hemorrhage from the upper gastrointestinal tract. The authors summarize their results and discuss gastric necrosis, a serious complication.