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Intermediate Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

angiographic embolization

Minimally invasive procedure using catheter-directed placement of materials to occlude bleeding vessels.

Full Definition

Angiographic embolization is a minimally invasive interventional radiology procedure used to control hemorrhage by placing occlusive materials into bleeding vessels via catheter-directed techniques. In acute care surgery, embolization is commonly used for pelvic bleeding, splenic trauma, or other sources of arterial hemorrhage when surgical control is difficult or high-risk. Various embolic agents can be used including coils, particles, or balloons. The procedure requires angiographic identification of bleeding sources and selective catheterization. Success depends on vascular anatomy and bleeding vessel characteristics.

Usage

Usage note: Specify vessels embolized, embolic agents used, and technical success in documentation.

In Context

  • "Angiographic embolization successfully controlled bleeding from pelvic vessels." — interventional radiology report
  • "The patient underwent angiographic embolization of the splenic artery for ongoing hemorrhage." — procedure note

Also known as

interventional embolization endovascular embolization

Contrasted with

surgical ligation

Don't confuse with

angioplasty thrombectomy

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