Intra-arterial embolisation in otolaryngology--a four-year review

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Head and neck tumors often present with hypervascularity.
• Hemorrhage from head and neck malignancies or other causes poses significant clinical challenges.
• Intra-arterial embolisation is an established endovascular technique.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial embolisation in otolaryngology patients.
• To assess outcomes in both elective and emergency settings.
• To determine complication rates and impact on survival.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 30 otolaryngology patients undergoing intra-arterial embolisation.
• Analysis of indications including elective tumor resection and emergency bleeding (epistaxis, oncologic).
• Review of procedural outcomes, complications, and survival data.

Main Results:

• Seven patients (23.3%) underwent elective embolisation prior to tumor resection.
• Emergency indications included epistaxis (9 patients, 30%) and oncologic bleeding (14 patients, 46.7%).
• Two patients (6.7%) experienced permanent cranial nerve deficits; 6 required further procedures within a week. Survival was prolonged in oncology patients with fatal hemorrhage.

Conclusions:

• Intra-arterial embolisation is a safe and effective intervention in otolaryngology for both elective and emergency vascular conditions.
• Complication rates are comparable to existing literature.
• The procedure significantly improves survival in oncology patients experiencing life-threatening hemorrhage.