[Transcatheter embolization of tumors of the muscular and skeletal systems]

The value of transcatheter embolisation of tumours of the musculoskeletal system is discussed on the basis of 26 cases. All procedures were performed following diagnostic angiography (DSA). By preoperative vascular occlusion it was possible to prevent major blood loss during surgery, provided the operation was carried out within three days of embolisation. Reduction in size of some large inoperable metastases before radio-iodine therapy is another indication for embolisation. As a palliative measure, vascular occlusion can be used for reducing otherwise untreatable skeletal pain and for the management of arteriovenous malformations. Bleeding from a tumour can be controlled by vascular occlusion. Our results indicate that transcatheter embolisation is an effective and reliable technique.