Dual-vessel intervention treatment for massive hemoptysis caused by lung cavitary lesions

To evaluate the outcome of dual-vessel intervention (DVI), including bronchial or pulmonary arterial embolization (B/PAE), in managing massive hemoptysis caused by cavitary lung lesions (with or without aspergilloma) and identify cavitary angiographic features influencing DVI procedures.

A retrospective analysis of the medical records and angiograms of 15 patients who underwent DVI for massive hemoptysis was performed.

The most frequent causes of cavitary lung lesions were tuberculosis (TB) (8/15, 53%) and bronchiectasis (6/15, 40%). Eight patients were diagnosed with aspergilloma (8/15, 53%). In all, 24 systemic arteries, including the orthotopic and ectopic bronchial arteries and 1 pulmonary artery branch, were embolized in 16 procedures. Clinical success and immediate cessation of hemoptysis were achieved in 12 patients (80%). Hemoptysis was controlled in 10 patients (67%) and recurred in 2 patients (17%), while 1 patient (7%) required repeat embolization. The bronchopulmonary fistula (shunting) rate was 73.3% (11/15). The average fistula emergence time was 1.28 ± 1.27 s (M ± SD), and the average vessel diameter was 3.974 ± 1.57 mm. There were no significant differences in angiographic features, clinical success, or recurrence of cavitary lesions with or without aspergilloma. The complication rates were low, with only transient chest pain and ventricular arrhythmia reported.

BAE is an effective and safe procedure for most cavitary lesions causing massive hemoptysis, and DVI is needed under certain circumstances. High bronchopulmonary fistula rates and early fistula emergence times were observed for cavitary lesions. The DVI strategy depends on the culprit vessel diameter, fistula type, and fistula emergence time.