[Revascularization of bladder neoplasms after percutaneous embolization of the hypogastric arteries]

The authors report a case of revascularization through the inferior mesenteric artery of a bladder tumor, which had previously been treated by embolization of both hypogastric arteries because of hemorrhage. Percutaneous embolization of the hypogastric arteries with various types of material has stimulated considerable interest among urologists, when used to treat hematuria which cannot be checked in patients with inoperable vesical neoplasms. As described by various authors, a tissue adhesive, N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (Blue histoacryl = Braun), which produces definite and irreversible circulatory arrest in the circulation in the neoplastic mass, was studied. The use of this material, introduced into clinical practice in Italy, especially by Giulian's school after many animal experimental studies, appeared to the authors to be elective in certain cases studied. The first patients in which it was used produced very convincing results as the hemorrhagic symptoms stopped immediately, without any obvious secondary reactions being observed. In one case, however, the immediate good result was followed by a return of the hemorrhage 6 months later.