What is an embolization procedure of the brain?

What is an embolization procedure of the brain?

Your doctor has requested a procedure called cerebral embolization. This is a way of blocking off part of a blood vessel that is causing problems. It can be used to control an aneurysm, excessive bleeding, or to cut off the blood supply to a tumor.

What is a tumor embolization?

Tumor embolization is a procedure that can be performed prior to a planned surgical resection. Embolization shuts down the blood supply to a tumor reducing blood loss during surgical resection.

What does embolization treat?

Embolization may be used to stop bleeding or to block the flow of blood to a tumor or abnormal area of tissue. It may be used to treat some types of liver cancer, kidney cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors. It may also be used to treat uterine fibroids, aneurysms, and other conditions.

Is embolization considered surgery?

Endovascular embolization (EE) is an invasive surgical procedure. It’s used to treat abnormal blood vessels found in your brain, as well as other areas of your body. This procedure is an alternative to open surgery. It blocks blood vessels to cut off blood flow to an affected area.

How long does embolization last?

Depending on how many blood vessels need treatment, the whole process takes from 30 minutes to a few hours. You can expect to remain in bed for six to eight hours after the procedure to let your body rest and recover.

Is embolization a surgery?

Is embolization painful?

Pain. The primary side effect of uterine artery embolization is pain, which may be a reaction to stopping blood flow to the fibroids and a temporary drop in blood flow to normal uterine tissue. Pain usually peaks during the first 24 hours. To manage the pain, you receive pain medication.

How long does a brain embolization take?

The procedure takes about 30 minutes. Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage any pain and discomfort after the procedure.

What happens after brain embolization?

Recovery from Brain Aneurysm Embolization Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days after the procedure, as long as no additional bleeding occurs. Pain medication is prescribed for discomfort. After discharge, patients may be asked to refrain from strenuous activities for about two weeks.

Are you put to sleep for embolization?

The procedure is performed while you are under general anesthesia. While you are asleep, a small incision is made over the artery in the groin area. A needle is used to puncture the artery. A thin hollow tube called a sheath is placed into the artery providing constant access to it.