[Embolization in the jugulo-tympanic chemodectoma. Value, indications and results]

Jugulo-tympanic chemodectomas are usually treated by means of surgical ablation and radiotherapy, these two techniques being used either in isolation or association. The recent advent of embolization, which has undergone considerable development in the field of vasular neuro-radiology within the last few years, open up new therapeutic possibilities for these vascular tumours. A study of three personal cases, followed up after a substantial lapse of time, gives a good idea of the importance of embolization in the therapeutic armoury. In fact, although embolization used alone can cause a reduction in functional symptomatology and even and objective clinical improvement (disappearance of some lesions of the cranial pairs, for exemple), it is regularly followed by repermeabilization of the various pediculi. Embolization used in isolation should therefore be reserved for patients who are inoperable for reasons for extension or associated deficiencies. Embolization appears to be of value before the operation as it results in less haemorrhage and may also be of value before radiotherapy.