Bronchial artery embolization for hemoptysis

Bronchial artery to pulmonary artery fistula initially misdiagnosed as pulmonary embolism: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Bronchopulmonary arterial fistulas have been reported following lung transplant, and in association with COPD, trauma, radiation therapy, and infection. They may also arise congenitally. Embolization is the most frequent treatment.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a case of a 58-year-old male with a prior history of pulmonary tuberculosis who initially presented with minimal hemoptysis for several months. Right upper lobe bronchial artery to pulmonary artery fistulas were discovered by angiography. These were excluded by particle and microcoil embolizations.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Relatively unopacified blood from bronchial artery enters right pulmonary artery and causes ill-defined hypodensities mixing with opacified blood, especially compared to uniformly, brightly enhancing left pulmonary artery. As a result, interpreters will frequently incorrectly conclude that right pulmonary artery embolism exists rather than a bronchopulmonary arterial fistula.

CONCLUSION

In most cases, bronchopulmonary arterial fistulas are treated by bronchial artery embolization; however, direct puncture or stent grafting are alternate considerations depending on the patient's anatomy. In all instances, a multidisciplinary approach is a must.

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.

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.

Chest-Wall Collateral Embolization to Reduce Surgical Blood Loss in Peripheral Aspergillomas

OBJECTIVES

 The objective of this study was to present the procedural details and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) findings of perioperative chest-wall collateral embolization (PCCE) and compare intraoperative blood loss in patients of pulmonary aspergilloma (PA) undergoing lung resection with and without PCCE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Since November 2017, we have performed PCCE in 17 patients (14 males, three females, age 34.41 ± 12.85 years) before surgery for PA (embolization group). Retrospective evaluation of these patients was done, DSA findings were noted, and perioperative parameters (surgical approach, extent of resection, operative time, blood loss, blood transfusion, morbidity grade, and length of post-operative stay) were compared with a comparative cohort of 24 patients of PA (21 males, three females, mean age 36.13 ± 12.58 years) who underwent thoracic surgery without PCCE (May 2013-November 2017) (control group) using the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

 A total of 55 arteries were embolized in 17 patients (mean 3.23 arteries per patient). Technical success could be achieved in all patients without any procedure-related complications. The most common arteries embolized were posterior intercostal arteries (29) followed by costocervical trunk (10), superior thoracic (8), lateral thoracic (5), and internal thoracic arteries (3). The mean blood loss was significantly lower in the embolization group compared with the control group (676.47 vs. 1,264.58 mL, p = 0.015). Within the embolization group, patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery had even lower blood loss compared with open surgery cases (466 vs. 887.50 mL, p-value = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

 PCCE is a simple and safe procedure, useful in reducing intra-operative blood loss in patients undergoing surgery for peripherally located PA.

Reduced nontarget embolization and increased targeted delivery with a reflux-control microcatheter in a swine model

PURPOSE

To evaluate the potential differences in non-target embolization and vessel microsphere filling of a reflux-control microcatheter (RCM) compared to a standard end-hole microcatheter (SEHM) in a swine model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Radiopaque microspheres were injected with both RCM and SEHM (2.4-Fr and 2.7-Fr) in the kidneys of a preclinical swine model. Transarterial renal embolization procedures with RCM or SEHM were performed in both kidneys of 14 pigs. Renal arteries were selectively embolized with an automated injection protocol of radio-opaque microspheres. Ex-vivo X-ray microtomography images of the kidneys were utilized to evaluate the embolization by quantification of the deposition of injected microspheres in the target vs. the non-target area of injection. X-ray microtomography images were blindly analyzed by five interventional radiologists. The degree of vessel filling and the non-target embolization were quantified using a scale from 1 to 5 for each parameter. An analysis of variance was used to compare the paired scores.

RESULTS

Total volumes of radio-opaque microspheres injected were similar for RCM (11.5±3.6 [SD] mL; range: 6-17mL) and SEHM (10.6±5.2 [SD] mL; range: 4-19mL) (P=0.38). The voxels enhanced ratio in the target (T) vs. non-target (NT) areas was greater with RCM (T=98.3% vs. NT=1.7%) than with SEHM (T=89% vs. NT=11%) but the difference was not significant (P=0.30). The total score blindly given by the five interventional radiologists was significantly different between RCM (12.3±2.1 [SD]; range: 6-15) and the standard catheter (11.3±2.5 [SD]; range: 4-15) (P=0.0073), with a significant decrease of non-target embolization for RCM (3.8±1.3 [SD]; range: 3.5-4.2) compared to SEHM (3.2±1.5 [SD]; range: 2.9-3.5) (P=0.014).

CONCLUSION

In an animal model, RCM microcatheters reduce the risk of non-target embolization from 11% to 1.7%, increasing the delivery of microspheres of 98% to the target vessels, compared to SEHM microcatheters.

Evaluation of the bronchial arteries: normal findings, hypertrophy and embolization in patients with hemoptysis

The enlargement of the bronchial arteries occurs in a multitude of congenital and acquired diseases and is responsible for the majority of cases of hemoptysis. In this review, we provide a simplified imaging approach to the evaluation of the bronchial arteries. We highlight the anatomy and function of the bronchial arteries, typical imaging findings, how to recognize bronchial artery dilatation, and its underlying causes. Contrast-enhanced computer tomography plays a major role in diagnosing bronchial artery enlargement and also improves treatment planning. Bronchial artery embolization has proven to be effective in controlling the potential hazardous hemoptysis.

Ectopic origin of bronchial arteries: still a potential pitfall in embolization

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of ectopic origin of bronchial arteries (BAs) on bronchial artery embolization (BAE) for hemoptysis.

METHODS

CT and angiography images of 50 consecutive sessions in 39 patients (aged 26-93 years; mean, 70.6 years) who underwent BAE for hemoptysis from April 2010 to December 2019 were reviewed. We defined ectopic BA as a systemic artery originating from other than the T5-T6 vertebral level of the descending aorta with course along the major bronchi. The background of patients, number of BAs, culprit arteries, and treatment outcomes were compared between the cases with and without ectopic BAs.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients (43.6%) demonstrated 19 ectopic BAs, originating from the subclavian artery (n = 7), aortic arch above the T5-T6 level (n = 6), internal mammary artery (n = 3), brachiocephalic trunk (n = 2) or lower descending thoracic aorta (n = 1). Total number of BAs in the cases with ectopic BA was significantly greater than those in cases without ectopic BA (p = 0.0062). Required sessions of embolization were similar in the two groups. No procedure-related significant complications were noted; however, four ectopic BAs caused unexpected filling of contrast media or migration of the embolic material from the orthotopic BA to ectopic BA originating from the arch vessels via tiny communication.

CONCLUSION

Although BAE under the presence of ectopic BA is feasible and safe, detection of BAs with ectopic origin, even of small diameter, is needed to avoid risk of non-target coursing of embolic materials.

Efficacy, safety and usability of bronchial artery embolization using a new anti-reflux microcatheter in the management of haemoptysis

PURPOSE

Haemoptysis (Hp) is a potentially life-threatening medical condition. We investigated the safety, efficacy and usability of bronchial artery embolization using a new anti-reflux microcatheter in patients with haemoptysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was held as a single-center retrospective study. Four patients underwent bronchial arterial embolization, using the new microcatheter. Then, we evalueted technical success, immediate clinical success, haemoptysis recurrance rate and safety in reducing reflux complications. Conclusion Bronchial artery embolization for hemoptysis with the new microcatheter is a safe and effective method with high technical and clinical success rates. Short and medium-term results are excellent.

Spinal Arterial Blood Supply Does Not Arise from the Bronchial Arteries: A Detailed Analysis of Angiographic Studies Performed for Hemoptysis

PURPOSE

To determine the angiographic prevalence of spinal arteries originating directly from the bronchial arteries in the setting of embolization for hemoptysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Over a 14-year interval, 205 patients underwent angiography for hemoptysis. Twenty-five patients were excluded because their bronchial arteries were not visualized. The remaining 180 patients underwent a total of 254 angiographic procedures (range, 1-8 per patient). Images were reviewed jointly by 2 interventional radiologists with formal fellowship training in both peripheral and neurological interventional radiology. All catheterized arteries were evaluated for arterial contribution to the spinal cord. For patients with multiple studies, each unique artery was reported only once. Embolization was performed during at least 1 procedure in 158 patients (88%). Electronic record review was used to assess neurological sequelae after the procedure.

RESULTS

One or 2 bronchial arteries originating from the aorta were identified in 57 patients (32%) on the right and in 75 patients (42%) on the left. Conjoined bronchial arteries were found in 76 patients (42%). Spinal arterial supply was absent in all. A total of 102 patients (57%) had at least 1 right and 11 patients (6%) at least 1 left intercostobronchial artery. Spinal arterial supply from the intercostal portion of an intercostobronchial artery was found in 6 patients (5 right, 1 left). Medical record review revealed no postprocedure symptoms referable to spinal cord injury in any patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Spinal arterial supply does not originate directly from the bronchial artery but can originate from the intercostal portion of an intercostobronchial artery.

Potential Factors Affected Safety and Efficacy of Transcatheter Plug Closure for Pediatric Hemoptysis with Anomalous Bronchial Arteries

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of interventional care in pediatric hemoptysis for anomalous bronchial arteries (BAs) and to identify the potential factors resulting in hemoptysis recurrence.

Methods

20 children complained of hemoptysis were diagnosed with anomalous BAs. All patients received transcatheter plug occlusion in Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. The safety and efficacy were evaluated according to clinical symptoms and images monitoring of enrolled subjects grouped as recurrence group and nonrecurrence group. The potential factors causing hemoptysis recurrence were reviewed and summarized.

Results

No deaths were recorded in a follow-up. Otherwise, hemoptysis recurrence was found in 8 subjects for 14 times, accounting for about 40%. Compared with nonrecurrence group, it indicated a statistical significance in hemoglobin levels (P=0.049), mycoplasma pneumonia particle assays (MP-PA) titers (P=0.030), and number of anomalous BAs (P=0.020). Meanwhile, 50% recurrent scenarios were associated with a respiratory infection by microbiological assessment before transcatheter plug occlusion. The repeat occlusion was applied for unclosed BAs leading to visual recurrent hemoptysis, the average interval time of which was 5.4 ± 3.6 mon.

Conclusion

The data from this retrospective study have shown that transcatheter plug occlusion is a relatively safe procedure with a low mortality. The number of abnormal BAs has been identified as a highly significant predictor of recurrence, and the role of MP and other potential factors should be verified in a multicenter, larger sample size, and randomized controlled trial.

An Interventionalist's Guide to Hemoptysis in Cystic Fibrosis

Massive hemoptysis occurs in a minority of patients with cystic fibrosis, with an annual incidence of 1%. Although rare, massive hemoptysis can be a severe and potentially fatal complication of this disease. Beyond the acute life-threatening event, hemoptysis in patients with cystic fibrosis has been associated with faster decline in lung function, accelerated need for lung transplant, and increased mortality. The bronchial arteries are the culprit vessels in over 90% of cases of hemoptysis. This normally quiescent vascular system undergoes remarkable hypertrophy, collateralization, and angiogenesis before the onset of hemoptysis, introducing numerous pitfalls for the interventionalist. However, in experienced hands, bronchial artery embolization is a safe and potentially lifesaving therapy. Preprocedural noninvasive imaging, specifically computed tomographic angiography, has been repeatedly validated for helping to localize the likely site of bleeding, characterizing pertinent arterial anatomy, and promoting efficient and effective intervention; it has been recommended for all stable patients with hemoptysis. Success in the angiographic suite requires a thorough understanding of normal and variant bronchial arterial anatomy, appropriate patient selection, and a meticulous embolization technique. A meticulous approach to imaging and intervention, conscientious of both visualized and nonvisualized collateral pathways and nontarget vessels, can minimize potentially devastating complications. This review summarizes the current literature, modern procedural techniques, and emerging controversies, serving to guide an evolving approach to management of patients with cystic fibrosis and hemoptysis. ^©RSNA, 2018.

Bronchial Artery Aneurysm with Associated Bronchial Artery to Pulmonary Artery Fistula: Treatment by Embolization

Bronchial artery aneurysm (BAA) is a rare vascular phenomenon. This review highlights a case of a BAA that was complicated by the presence of a bronchial artery to pulmonary artery (BA-PA) fistula, consequently presenting a unique challenge to management. BAAs have a strongly reported risk of rupture resulting in life-threatening hemoptysis. Embolization has thus become routine for the management such severe cases. The management of incidentally found anomalies is less obvious, but prophylactic embolization is a generally accepted practice. In this report, we review some of the risks and benefits associated with BAA embolization with specific consideration of the challenges in cases of co-existing BA-PA fistula.

Association between Air Pollution and Hemoptysis

Background. The relationship between air pollution and exacerbation of respiratory diseases is well established. Nevertheless, its association with hemoptysis has been poorly investigated. This paper describes the relationship of air pollutants with severe hemoptysis. Methods. All consecutive subjects with severe hemoptysis during a 5-year period were included. The relationship between the contamination measurements and the frequency of embolizations was analyzed using Poisson regressions. In these regressions, the dependent variable was the monthly number of embolizations in a given month and the independent variable was either the concentration of an air contaminant during the same month, the concentration of the air contaminant during the previous month, or the difference between the two. Results. A higher total number of embolizations per month were observed over the months with increases in the concentration of NO. The number of embolizations was 2.0 in the 33 months with no increases in the concentration of NO, 2.1 in the 12 months with small increases, 2.2 in the 5 months with moderate increases, 2.5 in the 4 months with large increases, and 4.0 in the 5 months with very large increases. Conclusion. There is association between hemoptysis and increases in the concentration of atmospheric NO in Badalona (Spain).

Bronchial artery embolization for hemoptysis: a retrospective observational study of 344 patients

BACKGROUND

Hemoptysis is a significant clinical entity with high morbidity and potential mortality. Both medical management (in terms of resuscitation and bronchoscopic interventions) and surgery have severe limitations in these patients population. Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) represents the first-line treatment for hemoptysis. This article discusses clinical analysis, embolization approach, outcomes and complications of BAE for the treatment of hemoptysis.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 344 cases, who underwent bronchial arteriography at Tianjin Haihe Hospital between 2006 and 2013. Several aspects of outcome were analyzed: Demographics, clinical presentation, radiographic studies, results, complications and follow-up of BAE.

RESULTS

Three hundred and forty-four consecutive patients underwent bronchial arteriography, 336 of 344 patients (97.7%) performed BAE; there were 1530 coils for 920 arteries embolized; the main responsible sources for bleeding were right bronchial artery (29.7%), left bronchial artery (21.6%), combined right and left bronchial trunk (18.4%), right intercostal arteries (13.3%); 61 patients (17.7%) had recurrent hemoptysis within 1 month after undergoing BAE, 74 patients (21.5%) had recurrent hemoptysis over 1 month after undergoing BAE; The common complications of BAE included subintimal dissection, arterial perforation by a guide wire, fever, chest pain, dyspnea, etc. The follow-up was completed in 248 patients, 28 patients had been dead, 21 patients still bleed, 92 patients had lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique of BAE is a relatively safe and effective method for controlling hemoptysis . The complications of BAE are rare. Although the long-term outcome in some patients is not good, BAE may be the only life-saving treatment option in patients who are poor surgical candidates.

Radiological Evaluation and Endovascular Treatment of Hemoptysis

Hemoptysis can be a life-threatening condition that warrants urgent investigation and intervention. Common causes include bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, tuberculosis, and malignancy. Computed tomography angiography is an accurate imaging modality for assessment of hemoptysis. The bronchial arteries are the source of bleeding in most cases of hemoptysis, and bronchial artery embolization is the treatment of choice. The aim of this article is to summarize the pathophysiology, causes, initial management, and diagnostic approach of hemoptysis. Endovascular treatment of hemoptysis, technique, embolic materials, outcomes, complications, and follow-up of patients are discussed.

Predictors of recanalization in patients with life-threatening hemoptysis requiring artery embolization

INTRODUCTION

Artery embolization (AE) is a safe and useful procedure in the management of massive hemoptysis. The objective of our study was to describe the experience of AE in a tertiary referral center, to characterize angiographic findings at the time of recurrence, and to analyze factors associated with these findings.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Observational retrospective study of patients presenting with life-threatening hemoptysis. All consecutive patients with at least one episode of hemoptysis that required AE during a 13-year period were included. The effects of i)time to recurrence; ii)use of coils, and iii)number of arteries embolized on the likelihood that the recurrence was secondary to recanalization were assessed.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-six patients were included in the study. Twenty-two patients (12.5%) died due to hemoptysis. Probability of recurrence-free survival at one month was 0.91 (95%CI: 0.87 to 0.95), at 12months was 0.85 (95%CI: 0.79 to 0.91), and after 3 years was 0.75 (95%CI: 0.66 to 0.83). A longer time to recurrence was associated with a higher probability that the hemorrhage affected the same artery (estimate=0.0157, z-value=2.41, p-value=0.016).

CONCLUSION

AE is a safe and useful technique in the management of massive and recurrent hemoptysis. Nevertheless, recurrence after embolization is not uncommon. Recurring hemoptysis due to recanalization is related to time to recurrence, but not to the use of coils or number of arteries embolized.

Beta-blocker management of refractory hemoptysis in cystic fibrosis: a novel treatment approach

Background/objective:

Recurrent hemoptysis is a debilitating complication of cystic fibrosis (CF) and likely results from mucosal erosions into abnormal bronchial blood vessels due to chronic respiratory infection. We hypothesize that the use of beta-blockade will decrease mean arterial pressure resulting in lower bronchial artery blood flow and, subsequently, decrease the frequency and severity of hemoptysis, rate of hospitalizations, and usage of intravenous antibiotics.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review was performed on 12 CF patients with recurrent hemoptysis, aged 13–40 years old, along with a follow-up telephone survey to assess the effectiveness of beta-blockade for hemoptysis, tolerance of inhaled respiratory medications, activity tolerance, and potential adverse effects. A beta-blocker, specifically atenolol, was initiated in all subjects within 24 hours after experiencing recurrent hemoptysis episodes.

Results:

A majority of patients (72.7%) had complete cessation of hemoptysis. There were significant decreases in the frequency of hemoptysis ( p = 0.02) and the amount of hemoptysis ( p = 0.004). The rate of hospitalizations significantly decreased from 1.33 to 0.67 ( p = 0.05) after initiation of atenolol. There was a trend toward statistical significance in the reduction of intravenous antibiotics use ( p = 0.08). No statistical difference was found when comparing the pre- and post-treatment means of forced expiratory volume in 1-second ( p = 0.59). Very minimal adverse effects were observed with only one patient reporting intermittent facial flushing.

Conclusion:

Beta-blockade, particularly with atenolol, appears to successfully treat, if not resolve, recurrent hemoptysis refractory to conservative therapy in CF. Beta-blocker therapy appears to maintain an effective safety profile in CF.

Temporal patterns in severe hemoptysis requiring bronchial artery embolization

Background

Although some authors have suggested that there is some seasonal periodicity in hemoptysis, temporal patterns of hemoptysis have been poorly investigated. The aim of this study is to describe the temporal pattern of severe hemoptysis which required bronchial artery embolization (BAE).

Methods

All consecutive patients with at least one episode of hemoptysis which required BAE during a 13-year period were included. Recurring hemoptysis requiring BAE in a patient with previous embolization was included as a new hemoptysis event, unless it occurred within one month from the prior event. Lineal regression was applied to compute the tendency of occurrence of cases along 13 years of record data. The daily and monthly distributions of embolizations were used to study the weekly and monthly seasonal indexes.

Results

Hemoptysis requiring BAE occurred with some monthly variation demonstrated with two monthly peaks, with the first one occurring during April and the second one during November.

Conclusion

Hemoptysis occurred with two monthly peaks. This seasonal trend might be due to different prevalence of respiratory tract infections or to some weather variables. Identification of significant environmental factors could be useful to improve preventive measures.

Interventional radiology for paediatric trauma

Paediatric interventional radiology plays a cornerstone role in the management of paediatric trauma. In the acute setting, interventional radiology techniques allow minimally invasive control of haemorrhage or re-establishment of blood flow. Percutaneous stenting and drainage can allow disruptions in urinary or biliary systems to heal without the need for further surgery. Interventional radiology techniques also have a significant role in treating delayed complications of trauma, including embolization of arterial pseudoaneurysms and pulmonary embolism prophylaxis in individuals immobilized due to the trauma or its operative treatment.