A Rare Case of Posterior Circulation Stroke Caused by Bronchial Artery Embolization

Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is an effective treatment for massive hemoptysis. Stroke is a rare complication of BAE, with only a few cases reported in the literature. We report one such case. Posterior circulation strokes after BAE can be caused by connections between the vertebral arteries and the bronchial arteries (shunting between pulmonary and systemic circulations), backflow of embolization material from the bronchial or intercostal arteries to the subclavian artery or through backflow of emblospheres into the aortic lumen leading to subsequent embolization of the cerebral circulation. New-onset focal neurologic signs, change in mental status, or delay in recovery from anesthesia after BAE warrants brain imaging to rule out a stroke. Our case had a poor outcome, unlike the majority of previously reported cases.