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Microcatheter Embolization of Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage: An Old Idea Whose Time Has Come

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Abstract

Early attempts of using embolization for lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage were fraught with complications, most notably ischemic colitis or bowel infarction. Embolotherapy was eventually abandoned in favor of catheter-directed vasoconstriction (i.e., vasopressin infusion). This latter therapy is time and labor intensive. With the advent of microcatheter technology, superselective embolization emerged and is rapidly becoming the endovascular therapy of choice for patients with severe lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage refractory to medical management. Numerous studies on the subject have consistently reported high clinical success with low ischemic complications. This article will review the current status of co-axial microcatheter embolization with an emphasis on the technical aspects of the procedure.

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  1. Section of Vascular and Interventional Radiology and Section of Abdominal Imaging, University of Chicago Hospitals, 5840 S. Maryland Ave MC 2026, Chicago, IL 60637

    Brian Funaki

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  1. Brian Funaki
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Correspondence to Brian Funaki.

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Funaki, B. Microcatheter Embolization of Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage: An Old Idea Whose Time Has Come. CVIR 27, 591–599 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00270-004-0243-x

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