Angiography and therapeutic blockade in the control of hemoptysis. The importance of nonbronchial systemic arteries.

Abstract

Control of hemoptysis by embolization of bronchial arteries in patients who are not surgical candidates has been accepted as the procedure of choice. However, the nonbronchial systemic vessels are quite often the source of bleeding, particularly in patients with chronic infection and pleural involvement. Bleeding into the bronchial tree is rarely demonstrated by angiography, so the radiologist often must decide which artery to embolize. Certain angiographic findings are useful indicators and should be a guide to the vessel that is the source of bleeding. The experience with 6 patients and 7 angiographic procedures is summarized.