embolization
A therapeutic procedure involving deliberate blockage of blood vessels using various agents to stop bleeding or reduce blood flow to abnormal tissues.
Full Definition
Embolization is an interventional radiology procedure in which various materials are intentionally introduced into blood vessels to occlude or reduce blood flow for therapeutic purposes. Common embolic agents include coils, particles, glue, balloons, and plugs, each selected based on the specific clinical indication and vascular anatomy. Applications include treatment of arteriovenous malformations, aneurysms, traumatic bleeding, tumor vascularity reduction, and uterine fibroid treatment. The procedure is typically performed under fluoroscopic guidance using catheter-based delivery systems. Embolization offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgical intervention for many vascular conditions and can be used as primary treatment or as an adjunct to other therapies.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from embolism, which is pathological vessel blockage.
In Context
- "Coil embolization successfully secured the ruptured cerebral aneurysm." — Neurointerventional procedure report
- "Preoperative embolization was performed to reduce tumor vascularity before surgical resection." — Interventional radiology report