[Chemotherapy through selective pelvic artery catheterization complicated by mural thrombosis]

Through catheter on uterine artery digital subtractive angiography (DSA) intraarterial infusion of chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of malignant trophoblastic diseases can raise local drug concentration, improve therapeutic results and reduce general side-effects. But mural thrombosis, a possible complication of intra arterial catheterization, should not be overlooked. This study reports 2 cases of mural thrombosis complication in selective pelvic artery catheterization for chemotherapy. The incidence, relevant factors to its occurrence such as technique of catheterization and the duration of catheter retention, as well as measures of prevention and treatment of mural thrombosis are discussed together with review of literature. With regards to prevention of mural thrombosis, stress is being laid on the importance of the technique of catheterization. Preliminary comments on the problem of heparin administration as a preventive measure of mural thrombosis are made.