Superselective microcoil embolization of colonic hemorrhage

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Severe colonic hemorrhage presents a significant clinical challenge.
• Diverticular disease and angiodysplasia are common causes of severe colonic bleeding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of therapeutic microcoil embolization for severe colonic hemorrhage.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-seven patients with severe colonic bleeding underwent attempted microcoil embolization using microcatheters.
• Embolization targeted the vasa recta or marginal artery of Drummond, involving branches of the superior and/or inferior mesenteric arteries.

Main Results:

• Technical success was achieved in 93% of procedures, with immediate hemostasis in 96%.
• Prolonged clinical success was observed in 81% of patients.
• Complications included rebleeding in three patients and bowel infarction in one patient.

Conclusions:

• Therapeutic microcoil embolization is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for severe colonic hemorrhage.
• The procedure demonstrates a high rate of success in controlling acute colonic bleeding.