A retrospective analysis of 334 cases of hemoptysis treated by bronchial artery embolization

The complex anatomy of the bronchial arteries: a meta-analysis with potential implications for thoracic surgery and hemoptysis treatment

The present meta-analysis aimed to provide the most detailed and comprehensive anatomical description of bronchial arteries (BAs) using data available in the literature. Adequate knowledge of the normal anatomy and morphological variations of BAs can be clinically significant; for example, this approach can prevent potential risks while undertaking bronchial artery embolization (BAE) procedures and, ultimately, lead to better patient outcomes. Major medical databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched. The overall search process was conducted in three main stages. The number of BAs varied from one to six, and 16 arterial patterns were observed. The most common variation was in one right BA and one left BA, with a pooled prevalence of 19.54% (95% CI 6.69-36.44%). The pooled prevalence of BAs originating separately from the aorta was 41.42% (95% CI 37.42-45.48%). The number and location of BAs are highly inconsistent. However, the most prevalent pattern involved two BAs: one in the right BA and one in the left BA. Although BAs most frequently originate from the descending aorta, the cooccurrence of at least one ectopic BA is relatively high. The results of our meta-analysis can serve as a source of comprehensive information for thoracic surgeons and physicians performing endovascular procedures, especially BAE, a treatment for life-threatening hemoptysis.

Bronchial artery embolization using small particles is safe and effective: a single center 12-year experience

BACKGROUND

Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) using particles is an established treatment for hemoptysis. The use of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with a particle size of 300 µm or larger is thought to reduce the risk of non-target embolization but may result in more proximal vessel occlusion than is ideal, resulting in a high rate of early recurrent hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of BAE using PVA particles with a size of less than 300 µm.

METHODS

All patients who underwent BAE between 2010 and 2022 at a tertiary center were included. Demographic data, etiology and volume of hemoptysis, technical and clinical success, procedure-related complications, and follow-up information were collected from patients' electronic records. 150-250 µm PVA particles were used to commence embolization in all patients with the subsequent use of larger-sized particles in some individuals. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate recurrence and survival rates.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-four patients underwent 189 embolization procedures between 2010 and 2022 and were followed up for a median of 35 months [IQR 19-89]. 150 µm to 250 µm PVA particles were used as the sole embolic agent in 137 cases. Hemoptysis recurred within 30 days in 7%. The median time to repeat intervention was 144 days [IQR 42-441]. Seventeen out of 144 patients had a pulmonary artery branch pseudoaneurysm. The rate of major complications was 1% with no instances of stroke or spinal artery ischemia. Thirty-day mortality was 2% (4/189).

CONCLUSION

BAE using 150-250 µm PVA particles is safe and effective with few complications and low rates of early hemoptysis recurrence.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

BAE using small particles is likely to improve outcomes, particularly the rate of early recurrence, in patients with hemoptysis, without an increase in procedural complications.

KEY POINTS

BAE is a safe and effective treatment for patients with hemoptysis. Using small PVA particles in BAE has few complications and low rates of early recurrence. Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms should be actively sought in those with hemoptysis undergoing BAE.

The efficacy, safety, and related factors of bronchial artery embolization for hemoptysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis with subgroup analysis

Background

Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is a common and important way to manage hemoptysis. This study's purpose was to summarize the efficacy, safety, and related factors of BAE in the treatment of hemoptysis.

Methods

From January 2010 to August 2023, a systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. Original studies with BAE for hemoptysis were included, with no restrictions on language. The outcomes of interest were technical success rate, clinical success rate, recurrence rate, mortality rate, and major complication rate. Pooled proportions with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was employed for quality assessment. Factors such as publication year, region, sample size, amount of hemoptysis, etiology, and embolization materials were extracted for subgroup analyses. Additionally, sensitivity analyses and test for publication bias were conducted.

Results

A total of 32 studies, including 6,032 patients, met our inclusion criteria. 27 studies were of high quality, while five of moderate quality. The results indicated the prevalence of technical success was 97.2% (95% CI: 95.1-98.8%) and 93.2% (95% CI: 90.3-95.7%) in clinical success. Hemoptysis recurrence and mortality rates after BAE were 24.8% (95% CI: 20.5-29.4%) and 2.3% (95% CI: 1.1-3.8%), respectively. Moreover, the pooled prevalence of major complication was 0.1% (95% CI: 0.0-0.4%). Subgroup analysis revealed that studies published after 2017 demonstrated a higher technical success rate and a lower recurrence rate. Massive hemoptysis showed a higher technical success rate but a lower clinical success rate. BAE also demonstrated superior efficacy in patients with bronchiectasis. The clinical success rate was significantly higher in patients with benign diseases than those with malignancies. Gelatin sponge (GS) showed poor embolization efficacy. N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) and coils exhibited reduced recurrence rates, while NBCA displayed an even lower recurrence rate than non-absorbable particles. The study by Ishikawa et al. influenced the stability of the pooled major complication rate, and the sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the remaining results.

Conclusions

BAE is safe and effective in treating different degrees of hemoptysis caused by benign and malignant lesions. Promising clinical efficacy was observed with NBCA as an embolic material for the treatment of hemoptysis. However, further conclusions should be investigated using evidence-based medicine.

Society of Chest Imaging and Interventions Consensus Guidelines for the Interventional Radiology Management of Hemoptysis

The recommendations from the Society of Chest Imaging and Interventions expert group comprehensively cover all the aspects of management of hemoptysis, highlighting the role of diagnostic and interventional radiology. The diversity existing in etiopathology, imaging findings, and management of hemoptysis has been addressed. The management algorithm recommends the options for effective treatment while minimizing the chances of recurrence, based on the best evidence available and opinion from the experts.

Bronchial Artery Embolization in Management of Hemoptysis in a Developing Country: An Initial Experience

Purpose This article evaluates the immediate success, recurrence rate, complications, and the culprit vessel of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) in patients presenting with hemoptysis.

Methods and Materials All patients who underwent BAE from July 1, 2018 to August 31, 2021 were included. BAE was done for moderate to severe hemoptysis or for mild hemoptysis which was recurrent and not controlled by medical management. Patients referred for surgical intervention and hemoptysis controlled on medical management were excluded.

Results One hundred and thirty patients underwent BAE in the study period. Mean age was 41.5 years and majority (73.1%) was male. Forty-three (33.1%) patients had mild, 46 (35.4%) had moderate, and 41 (31.5%) with the duration of symptoms ranging from 3 days to 25 years. Most common culprit vessel was posterior intercostal artery closely followed by the intercostobronchial artery. Hypervascularity was the most common angiographic abnormality encountered. On an average, 2.75 vessels were embolized per BAE with a wide range of 1 to 8 vessels. Hemoptysis control was seen in 96.1% patients immediately, 90.7 % at 1 month, 82.3 % at 3 months, and 66.9 % at 6 months. Overall recurrence was seen in 43 patients (33.1%). Chest pain was the most common minor side effect occurring in 77.1% cases.

Conclusion BAE is a safe and effective procedure that can be performed routinely in patients presenting with moderate to massive hemoptysis or with mild hemoptysis refractory to medical management.

Embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate in patients with hemoptysis: A retrospective single-center study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) in patients with hemoptysis.

METHODS

We analyzed a total of 55 consecutive patients with hemoptysis (14 mild, 31 moderate, and 10 massive) treated with the embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate between November 2013 and January 2020. The main variables analyzed were the rates of technical success, of clinical success, of recurrence, and of complications. Statistics included a descriptive analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival curves.

RESULTS

Embolization was a technical success in 55 (100%) and a clinical success in 54 (98.2%). During follow-up (mean, 23.8 months; interquartile range, 9.7-38.2 months), hemoptysis recurred in 5 (9.3%) patients. The nonrecurrence rate was 91.9% one year after the initial procedure and 88.7% two years and four years after the initial procedure. Minor complications related with the procedure occurred in 6 (10.9%); no major complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

The embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate is safe and efficacious for controlling hemoptysis, resulting in low recurrence rates.

CIRSE Standards of Practice on Bronchial Artery Embolisation

This CIRSE Standards of Practice document is aimed at interventional radiologists and provides best practices for performing bronchial artery embolisation to effectively treat haemoptysis. It has been developed by an expert writing group established by the CIRSE Standards of Practice Committee.

Microspheres present comparable efficacy and safety profiles compared with polyvinyl alcohol for bronchial artery embolization treatment in hemoptysis patients

Background

The present study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety profiles of microspheres versus (vs.) polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for bronchial artery embolization (BAE) treatment in patients with hemoptysis.

Methods

Totally, 152 patients with hemoptysis who were about to receive BAE treatment were consecutively enrolled and divided into microspheres group (N = 62) and PVA group (N = 90). Technical success and clinical success were assessed after BAE procedure, and the hemoptysis-recurrence status, survival status and adverse events were recorded during follow-up.

Results

Technical success rates were both 100% in microspheres group and PVA group; clinical success rate (96.8% vs. 100.0%, P = 0.165), 6-month (9.7% vs. 7.8%, P = 0.681) and 1-year (9.7% vs. 8.9%, P = 0.869) hemoptysis recurrence rate, 6-month (4.8% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.374) and 1-year (4.8% vs. 3.3%, P = 0.639) mortality were similar between microspheres group and PVA group. Furthermore, hemoptysis-free survival (P = 0.488) and overall survival (P = 0.321) were of no difference between two groups. In addition, all adverse events were mild, and there was no difference of adverse events between two groups (all P > 0.05). These data were validated by further multivariate regression analysis.

Conclusions

Microspheres present comparable efficacy and safety profiles compared with PVA for the BAE treatment in patients with hemoptysis, providing evidence for embolic agent selection.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-02947-7.

Feasibility and outcomes of bronchial artery embolization in patients with non-massive hemoptysis

Purpose

To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and long-term outcome of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) in the treatment of non-massive hemoptysis and the prognostic factors associated with recurrent bleeding.

Materials and methods

From March 2005 to September 2014, BAE was performed in 233 patients with non-massive hemoptysis. All patients had a history of persistent or recurrent hemoptysis despite conservative medical treatment. We assessed the technical and clinical success, recurrence, prognostic factors related to recurrent bleeding, recurrence-free survival rate, additional treatment, and major complications in all the patients.

Results

Technical success was achieved in 224 patients (96.1%), and clinical success was obtained in 219 (94.0%) of the 233 patients. In addition, 64 patients (27.5%) presented hemoptysis recurrence with median time of 197 days after embolization. Tuberculosis sequelae and presence of aberrant bronchial artery or non-bronchial systemic collaterals were significantly related to recurrent bleeding (p < 0.05). The use of Histoacryl-based embolic materials significantly reduced the recurrent bleeding rate (p < 0.05). Patient who had a tuberculosis sequelae showed a significantly lower recurrence-free survival rate (p = 0.013). Presence of aberrant bronchial artery or non-bronchial systemic collaterals showed a statistically significant correlation with recurrence-free survival rate (p = 0.021). No patients had major complications during follow-up.

Conclusions

BAE is a safe and effective treatment to manage non-massive hemoptysis. The procedure may offer a better long-term control of recurrent hemoptysis and quality of life than conservative therapy alone.

Embolotherapy in Bronchial Hemorrhage

Hemoptysis, defined as bleeding into the tracheobronchial tree, is a serious symptom that can cause asphyxiation if inadequately treated. Massive hemoptysis carries a very high mortality risk, and therefore, a prompt multidisciplinary approach to hemoptysis is highly encouraged. Bronchial artery embolization has evolved as the mainstay of treatment in control of hemoptysis. It is a low-risk procedure that carries high initial clinical success rates. Despite relatively high recurrence rates, it can be repeated until the underlying disease process can be definitively treated.

Bronchial artery embolization: A gratifying life-saving procedure

BACKGROUND

Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is an urgent life-saving procedure in patients with massive hemoptysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a single center observational study wherein patients presenting with hemoptysis were evaluated and underwent BAE. Initially, a descending thoracic aortogram was performed to identify culprit vessels followed by selective catheterization of the involved vessels. Abnormal bronchial artery morphology included hypertrophied and tortuous bronchial artery (BA), focal hyperemia and hypervascularity, shunting into pulmonary artery or vein, extravasation of contrast into the lung parenchyma/cavity and BA aneurysms. Selective embolization was done using either gelfoam or polyvinyl alcohol particles. Post-procedure, follow-up was done at one month and six months with outcomes defined in terms of recurrence of hemoptysis.

RESULTS

A total of 187 patients underwent BAE with post-tubercular sequalae being the most common diagnosis in 157 (84%) followed by idiopathic bronchiectasis in 19 (10.2%) and aspergilloma in 7 (3.7%). A total of 246 vessels were embolized with right sided BA being more commonly involved as compared to left [143 (76.5%) vs. 35 (18.7%); P < 0.0001]. Complete resolution was observed in 183 (97.8%) 24 hours post procedure. Recurrence was reported in 34 (18.2%) patients with higher frequency in diabetics, patients with active tuberculosis and presence of aspergillomas. Multi-variate logistic regression analysis showed that diabetes, presence of an aspergilloma and feeding vessels from internal mammary artery were independent predictors of recurrent hemoptysis. Most of the complications were minor except paraparesis observed in two patients.

CONCLUSION

BAE is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of hemoptysis of different etiologies.

Spinal Cord Infarction after Bronchial Artery Embolization for Hemoptysis: A Nationwide Observational Study in Japan

Background The most serious complication of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) for hemoptysis is spinal cord infarction. However, because it is rare, previous reports from single institutions have been insufficient to determine the actual prevalence of spinal cord infarction after BAE. Purpose To investigate the actual prevalence of spinal cord infarction as a complication of BAE using a nationally representative inpatient database. Materials and Methods This retrospective study was performed using data from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database between July 2010 and March 2018. The authors identified patients who were diagnosed with hemoptysis and underwent BAE during hospitalization. The overall prevalence of spinal cord infarction after BAE was determined. The authors also compared the prevalence of spinal cord infarction using the Fisher exact test according to the embolic agent used for BAE: coils, gelatin sponge (GS) particles, and N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA). Results During the study period, 8563 patients (mean age ± standard deviation, 68 years ± 13; 5103 men) met the inclusion criteria. Among these 8563 patients, 1577 (18%), 6561 (77%), and 425 (5%) underwent BAE with coils, GS particles, and NBCA, respectively. The overall prevalence of spinal cord infarction as a complication of BAE was 0.19% (16 of 8563 patients). The prevalence of spinal cord infarction after BAE with coils, GS particles, and NBCA was 0.06% (one of 1577 patients), 0.18% (12 of 6561 patients), and 0.71% (three of 425 patients), respectively (P = .04). Conclusion With use of a nationwide real-world inpatient database, the results of this study demonstrated that the actual prevalence of spinal cord infarction as a complication of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) for hemoptysis was 0.19%. Patients who underwent BAE with coils had a lower prevalence of spinal cord infarction than patients who underwent BAE with gelatin sponge particles or N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate. © RSNA, 2021.

Embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate in patients with hemoptysis: a retrospective single-center study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) in patients with hemoptysis.

METHODS

We analyzed a total of 55 consecutive patients with hemoptysis (14 mild, 31 moderate, and 10 massive) treated with the embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate between November 2013 and January 2020. The main variables analyzed were the rates of technical success, of clinical success, of recurrence, and of complications. Statistics included a descriptive analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival curves.

RESULTS

Embolization was a technical success in 55 (100%) and a clinical success in 54 (98.2%). During follow-up (mean, 23.8 months; interquartile range, 9.7 - 38.2 months), hemoptysis recurred in 5 (9.3%) patients. The nonrecurrence rate was 91.9% one year after the initial procedure and 88.7% two years and four years after the initial procedure. Minor complications related with the procedure occurred in 6 (10.9%); no major complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

The embolization of bronchial arteries and nonbronchial systemic arteries with n-butyl-cyanoacrylate is safe and efficacious for controlling hemoptysis, resulting in low recurrence rates.

The impact of bronchial artery embolisation on the quality of life of patients with haemoptysis: a prospective observational study

Objectives

Patients with haemoptysis often experience daily physical and mental impairment. Bronchial artery embolisation is among the first-line treatment options used worldwide; however, no evidence exists regarding the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after bronchial artery embolisation. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of bronchial artery embolisation on the HRQoL of patients with haemoptysis.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 61 consecutive patients who visited our hospital from July 2017 to August 2018 and received bronchial artery embolisation for haemoptysis. The primary outcome was the HRQoL evaluated using the Short Form Health Survey, which contains physical and mental components, before and after bronchial artery embolisation. The secondary outcomes were procedural success, complications, and recurrence-free survival rate at 6 months.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 69 years (range, 31–87 years). The procedural success rate was 98%. No major complications occurred. The recurrence-free survival rate estimated using the Kaplan-Meier analysis at 6 months after bronchial artery embolisation was 91.8% (95% confidence interval, 91.1–92.5%). Compared with the pre-treatment scores, the physical and mental scores were significantly improved at 6 months after bronchial artery embolisation (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Bronchial artery embolisation improved the HRQoL of patients with haemoptysis.

Key Points

• Bronchial artery embolisation improved the HRQoL of patients with haemoptysis.

• Vessel dilation on computed tomography and systemic artery-pulmonary artery direct shunting on angiography were the most common abnormalities.

• The recurrence-free survival rate estimated using the Kaplan-Meier analysis at 6 months after bronchial artery embolisation was 91.8%.

Bronchial artery embolization. What further we can offer?

Introduction

Massive hemoptysis is the most feared of all respiratory emergencies, with many underlying causes. In 90% of cases, the source of hemoptysis is the bronchial circulation. Despite high recurrence rates, bronchial artery embolization (BAE) remains the first-line treatment in management of hemoptysis.

Aim

To establish pre-procedure and procedural protocols for BAE.

Material and methods

The study included a total of 50 patients referred to the Department of Radiology for complaints of hemoptysis. Pre-procedure computed tomography (CT) angiography for determination of responsible circulation was performed as a regular protocol except in cases presenting with life-threatening hemoptysis. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA size, 300–500 μm and 500–700 μm) particles combined with gel foam embolization was performed. Successful catheterization and embolization of the targeted vessel was considered technical success and the cessation of hemoptysis to minimal levels was labeled clinical success.

Results

Thirty-two (64%) male and 18 (36%) female subjects comprised the study group. Forty (80%) patients had moderate to severe hemoptysis. Tuberculosis (80%) was the most common etiology. Five patients had severe AV shunting and were embolized with decremental particle size (500–700 μm followed by 300–500 μm) to occlude the bed and then embolize the artery. Technical success was achieved in all the patients, but clinical success was achieved in 40 (80%) patients.

Conclusions

Bronchial artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure recognized for primary management of hemoptysis. Preprocedure evaluation with CT angiography can add incremental value in management. Usage of decremental particle size is helpful to embolize large AV shunts.

Angiographic Findings and Outcomes of Bronchial Artery Embolization in Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the angiographic findings and outcomes of bronchial artery embolization in tuberculosis patients and to compare them with those of non-tuberculosis patients.

Materials and Methods

Patients who underwent bronchial artery embolization in a single interventional radiology department with hemoptysis were reviewed. A total of 89 patients (66 males and 23 females; mean age 52.71±15.37) were incorporated in the study. The patients were divided into two groups: tuberculosis group (n=36) and non-tuberculosis group (16 malignancy, 22 bronchiectasis, 6 pulmonary infection, 5 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 4 idiopathic; n=53). Angiography and embolization procedure were performed by interventional radiologists with 5, 10, and 20 years of experience. Angiographic findings were classified as tortuosity, hypertrophy, hypervascularity, aneurysm, bronchopulmonary shunt, extravasation, and normal bronchial artery. Chi-square test was used to compare angiographic findings between tuberculosis and non-tuberculosis patient groups.

Results

Bronchopulmonary shunt was found to be significantly higher in the tuberculosis group as compared to that in the non-tuberculosis group (p=0.002). Neither of the groups showed a statistically significant difference with respect to recurrence (p=0.436).

Conclusion

Bronchial artery embolization is a useful and effective treatment method of hemoptysis in tuberculosis. Evaluation of bronchopulmonary shunts in patients with tuberculosis is critical for the reduction of catastrophic complications.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Hemoptysis

Hemoptysis, the expectoration of blood, ranges in severity from nonmassive to massive. This publication reviews the literature on the imaging and treatment of hemoptysis. Based on the literature, the imaging recommendations for massive hemoptysis are both a chest radiograph and CT with contrast or CTA with contrast. Bronchial artery embolization is also recommended in the majority of cases. In nonmassive hemoptysis, both a chest radiograph and CT with contrast or CTA with contrast is recommended. Bronchial artery embolization is becoming more commonly utilized, typically in the setting of failed medical therapy. Recurrent hemoptysis, defined as hemoptysis that recurs following initially successful cessation of hemoptysis, is best reassessed with a chest radiograph and either CT with contrast or CTA with contrast. Bronchial artery embolization is increasingly becoming the treatment of choice in recurrent hemoptysis, with the exception of infectious causes such as in cystic fibrosis. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

Etiology and outcome of hemoptysis in Qatar, a high-resource country with a large expatriate population: A retrospective study

Background: Hemoptysis is an alarming symptom in clinical practice. We reviewed ten years of experience with hemoptysis in a tertiary hospital in Qatar to identify hemoptysis etiologies, patient characteristics, and associated factors. Methods: Hemoptysis was defined based on severity as mild ( < 50 ml or streaks of blood), moderate (50–150 ml) and massive (>150 ml) in the 24 hours before admission. Hemodynamically unstable is considered when systolic BP  < 100 mmHg,tachycardia with HR>110/min, tachypnea with RR>22/min, or SpO2  < 92% on room air. Results: A total of 102 patients (41 females and 61 males) with 133 episodes of hemoptysis were identified in this study. Among the hemoptysis patients with co-morbidities, 19 patients had hypertension, 17 patients had cardiovascular disease, and 66 patients with other co-morbidities. COPD patients had a significant (p  <  0.02) association with hemoptysis. Chest X-ray was used in most patients and other modalities like CT scan and bronchoscopies were used less frequently. Pneumonia (12.8%), bronchiectasis (11.8%) and cardiovascular disorders (11.8%) are the primary causes of hemoptysis. Malignancy was less frequent (7.8%), and bronchogenic carcinoma was uncommon (2%). There were 24 (23.5 %) no identified causes of hemoptysis. The overall mortality was 9.8% in this study. Conclusions: Population demographics played a significant role in the severity of hemoptysis and prognosis. Most patients had benign etiologies, lower severity of hemoptysis and good prognosis. Differences in the etiology, initial severity, and prognosis of patients with hemoptysis were found significantly different when compared with those reported in previous studies.

Exacerbation of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis was associated with a high rebleeding rate after bronchial artery embolization

BACKGROUND

Hemoptysis is a common symptom associated with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). While surgery is the primary choice to manage hemoptysis, it is often avoided because patients with CPA are more likely to have complications such as respiratory insufficiency and low pulmonary function. Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) may be considered one of the treatments of massive and persistent hemoptysis for such patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 41 patients, admitted to National Hospital Organization Tokyo National Hospital, Tokyo, Japan with hemoptysis arising from CPA between January 2011 to December 2016, who were considered inoperable and had undergone BAE.

RESULTS

Out of the 41 cases analyzed in this study, 21 (51.2%) developed rebleeding after BAE within the mean follow-up duration of 24 months. The non-rebleeding rate of patients after BAE was 92.7% within a month and 65.8% within a year. Patients who developed rebleeding had significantly more non-bronchial systemic arteries responsible for the bleeding compared with patients who did not develop rebleeding (mean of 2.55 vs. 4.86, respectively, P = 0.011). Patients with stable or improved radiological findings demonstrated significantly lower rebleeding rates than those with radiological deterioration (P < 0.001). The non-rebleeding patients had significantly better survival than those with rebleeding (79.7% vs. 39.9% over 5 years, P = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

Bronchial artery embolization was effective in controlling hemoptysis in patients with CPA, especially those who could not undergo surgical resection. However, disease control of CPA was important to prevent rebleeding over the long term and to improve survival after BAE.

Outcomes and Complications of Bronchial Angioembolization in Patients with Massive Hemoptysis

BACKGROUND

Massive hemoptysis is a potentially life threatening medical condition and one major problem for both patients and physicians. Choosing the appropriate treatment for the patients is crucial in order to decrease the complications and increase the success rate. Hence, in this study the outcomes and complications of bronchial angioembolization (BAE) were determined in patients with massive hemoptysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective cohort, 189 consecutive patients with moderate and severe hemoptysis who had referred to two large cardiovascular centers were enrolled. The Chest X Ray, CT Scan, Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy, Selective and Nonselective Bronchial Angiography were performed in patients. The outcomes with 20-month follow-up were compared.

RESULTS

The immediate success rate was 97.3%. In 79.7% there were no complications. Temporary chest pain, subintimal dissection, temporary dysphagia, and pancreatitis were seen in 12.3, 2.4, 5.1, and 0.5%, respectively, without any major complication. The in-hospital mortality rate was 1.1% and mortality during 20-month follow-up was 9.6%, and recurrence rate was 28.3% on total.

CONCLUSION

Our case series showed that BAE is a safe and effective method in treating patients with hemoptysis. Compared to surgery, the procedure is faster and less invasive and might be used both as first line or bridging therapy. Importantly, no major complications have been detected.

Safety and efficacy of transcatheter embolization in patients with massive hemoptysis due to intercostal pulmonary venous shunts

PURPOSE

Bronchial hemoptysis induced by intercostal pulmonary venous shunt (IPVS) is clinically rare. Pulmonary lesions on pleural surface may facilitate opening of vascular network. This retrospective study investigated safety and efficacy of embolization agents with small-particle embolization treating patients with massive hemoptysis due to IPVS.

METHODS

Patients with massive hemoptysis (n = 207) underwent computed tomography angiography of bronchial artery. Depending on results, selective or superselective digital subtraction angiography and embolization were performed. Polyvinyl alcohol (300-500 μm), or microcoils combined with polyvinyl alcohol, was utilized according to IPVS volume. Vital signs of each patient were closely monitored.

RESULTS

Of 207 patients with massive hemoptysis, 24 (11.6%) had IPVS syndrome. Patients with IPVS had concomitant bronchiectasis (54.2%), followed by tuberculosis (25.0%). Embolizations were performed in 39 culprit intercostal arteries; 37 (94.9%) of these were successfully embolized. Of the latter, 30 and 7 arteries were embolized, respectively, by polyvinyl alcohol alone or polyvinyl alcohol particles combined with microcoils. Embolization failed in one case because the agents could not enter the intercostal artery. If artery dissection occurred during procedure, microcoils were utilized to embolize the main artery. No skin necrosis, spinal artery embolization, or death occurred. Immediate clinical success was achieved in 22 patients (91.7%) after embolization. Two patients (8.3%) experienced recurrence of hemoptysis. Only four patients experienced mild hemoptysis during the 24-month follow-up with the efficiency of 75.0%.

CONCLUSIONS

Intercostal artery embolization with 300-500 μm alone or combined with microcoils is a safe and effective procedure in patients with IPVS-induced bronchial hemoptysis.

Approach to Hemoptysis in the Modern Era

Hemoptysis is a frequent manifestation of a wide variety of diseases, with mild to life-threatening presentations. The diagnostic workup and the management of severe hemoptysis are often challenging. Advances in endoscopic techniques have led to different new therapeutic approaches. Cold saline, vasoconstrictive and antifibrinolytic agents, oxidized regenerated cellulose, biocompatible glue, laser photocoagulation, argon plasma coagulation, and endobronchial stents and valves are amongst the tools available to the bronchoscopist. In this article, we review the evidence regarding the definition, etiology, diagnostic modalities, and treatment of severe hemoptysis in the modern era with emphasis on bronchoscopic techniques.

Morphological Analysis of Bronchial Arteries and Variants with Computed Tomography Angiography

The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of anatomical variants of bronchial arteries using computed tomographic angiography in a population of northeastern Mexico. An observational, transversal, descriptive, comparative, retrospective study was performed using 139 imaging studies of Mexican patients in which we evaluated the following parameters from the left and right bronchial arteries: artery origin, branching pattern, arterial ostium, vertebral level of origin, diameter, and mediastinal trajectory. The anatomies of the bronchial arteries were similar in both genders, except distribution for vertebral origin level (p  0.006) and the diameter (p  0.013). Left and right arteries were similar, except for the mediastinal trajectory in reference to the esophagus (p < 0.001) as well as the arterial diameter (p < 0.001) and lumen diameter.

Bronchial artery embolization in hemoptysis: a systematic review

We systematically reviewed the role of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) in hemoptysis. Literature search was done for studies on BAE published between 1976 and 2016. Twenty-two studies published in English, with sample size of at least 50 patients, reporting indications, technique, efficacy, and follow-up were included in the final analysis. Common indications for BAE included tuberculosis (TB), post-tubercular sequelae, bronchiectasis, and aspergillomas. Most common embolizing agent used was polyvinyl alcohol (size, 300-600 μm) with increasing use of glue in recent years. Overall immediate clinical success rate of BAE, defined as complete cessation of hemoptysis, varied from 70%-99%. However, recurrence rate remains high, ranging from 10%-57%, due to incomplete initial embolization, recanalization of previously embolized arteries, and recruitment of new collaterals. Presence of nonbronchial systemic collaterals, bronchopulmonary shunting, aspergillomas, reactivation TB, and multidrug resistant TB were associated with significantly higher recurrence rates (P < 0.05). Rate of major complications remained negligible and stable over time with median incidence of 0.1% (0%-6.6%). Despite high hemoptysis recurrence rates, BAE continues to be the first-line, minimally invasive treatment of hemoptysis in emergency settings, surgically unfit patients, or in patients with diffuse or bilateral lung disease.

Pediatric Interventional Radiology: Vascular Interventions

Pediatric interventional radiology (PIR) comprises a range of minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that are performed using image guidance. PIR has emerged as an essential adjunct to various surgical and medical conditions. Over the years, technology has undergone dramatic and continuous evolution, making this speciality grow. In this review, the authors will discuss various vascular interventional procedures undertaken in pediatric patients. It is challenging for the interventional radiologist to accomplish a successful interventional procedure. There are many vascular interventional radiology procedures which are being performed and have changed the way the diseases are managed. Some of the procedures are life saving and have become the treatment of choice in those patients. The future is indeed bright for the practice and practitioners of pediatric vascular and non-vascular interventions. As more and more of the procedures that are currently being performed in adults get gradually adapted for use in the pediatric population, it may be possible to perform safe and successful interventions in many of the pediatric vascular lesions that are otherwise being referred for surgery.

Bronchial artery embolisation in management of hemoptysis--A retrospective analysis in a tertiary university hospital

BACKGROUND

Bronchial artery embolisation (BAE) becomes a mainstay in the treatment of hemoptysis.

OBJECTIVE

To characterise patients with hemoptysis undergoing bronchial artery angiography (BAA) for embolisation, evaluating outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated patients with acute severe or chronic recurrent hemoptysis admitted to the Pulmonology department and submitted to BAA for purpose of embolisation.

RESULTS

A total of 88 patients were submitted to BAA, 47 (53.4%) were male, with a mean age of 61.4 ± 15.8 years. In 64 (72.7%) patients, hemoptysis presented as chronic recurrent episodes. Hemoptysis was considered severe in 40 (45.5%) patients. Bronchiectasis (other than cystic fibrosis) (n=35; 38.0%) and tuberculosis sequelae (n=31; 35.2) were the major aetiology for hemoptysis. The main angiographic abnormality was hypertrophy and tortuosity (n=68; 77.3%). BAE was performed in 67 (76.1%) of the 88 patients submitted to BAA. Immediate success was achieved in 66 (98.5%) patients. Recurrence of hemoptysis occurred in 25 (37.3%) patients, and was related to presence of shunting (p=0.049). The procedure-related complications were self-limited.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that BAE is a safe and effective treatment for acute severe and chronic recurrent hemoptysis, supporting the current literature. Besides this, bleeding recurrence was relatively high, and correlated with presence of systemic pulmonary shunting.