[Super selective bronchial artery embolization using metallic coils in the management of hemoptysis]

Hemoptysis is one of the most important clinical problems of cardiopulmonary disease with high mortality rate. Its management is routinely performed with Bronchial Artery Embolization (BAE). However, it was reported that BAE had some disadvantages such as spinal injury and recurrent bleeding. In order to prevent spinal injury, we tried the super selective bronchial artery embolization (ss-BAE). This technique is especially available in the occlusion of the bronchial artery forming the common trunk with the spinal artery. Besides, BAE, considered to be only a palliative treatment, might cause recanalization due to reabsorption of the occlusive agent. So we used metallic coils to prevent this drawback. The ss-BAE with metallic coils was performed in 2 cases who had refractory hemoptysis against conservative therapy. Hemoptysis disappeared in both cases. The ss-BAE with metallic coils was shown to be safer and more effective than ordinary BAE.