Objective: To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of transarterial embolization for management of acute massive hemorrhage in patients with duodenal ulcer.
Methods: Twenty-two patients with duodenal ulcer underwent transarterial embolization for acute massive hemorrhage in our hospital between January 2007 and December 2012. Embolic agents were coils and gelatin sponge. The clinical data and embolization procedures of these patients were retrospective analyzed.
Results: Bleeding was controlled in 20 of 23 patients after the first embolization procedures. In the other 3 patients with rebleeding, one patient was successfully managed by repeat embolization and two patient underwent surgical treatment. The overall clinical success rate for acute hemorrhage after transarterial embolization was 91% (21/23). No severe complication occurred.
Conclusion: Transarterial embolization is safe and effective for acute massive hemorrhage in patients with duodenal ulcer.