Bronchial arterial embolization for treatment of massive hemoptysis: report of 21 cases

Objective:To evaluate the bronchial arterial embolization (BAE) in treatment of massive hemoptysis.Methods:Twenty-one cases of massive hemoptysis received embolization therapy using gelfoam and polyvinyl alcohol micropheres,and all were followed up for one month to three years.Results:The therapy reached satisfactory results in all the 21 patients.Instant effects were observed in 16 patients and 5 patients had a decreased bleeding compared with pre-therapy.Recurrent hemoptysis was observed in only 2 cases in the follow-up.Conclusions:BAE is safe and effective in treatment of massive hemoptysis.