Embolisaatiotoimenpiteissä

Embolisaatiotoimenpiteissä, or embolization procedures in English, are minimally invasive medical treatments used to block or narrow blood vessels. This is achieved by introducing embolic agents, such as tiny coils, particles, or adhesives, into the targeted vessel through a catheter. The primary goal of embolization is to control bleeding, reduce blood flow to a specific area, or shrink abnormal tissues like tumors.

These procedures are performed by interventional radiologists or vascular surgeons. A small incision is made, typically in the groin, to access an artery. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is then guided through the blood vessels to the site requiring treatment. Once the catheter is in place, the embolic agent is delivered through it. The agent travels to the target vessel and obstructs blood flow.

Embolization has a wide range of applications. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), uterine fibroids, and bleeding from trauma or tumors. It can also be used to shrink tumors before surgery or other cancer treatments, or to manage excessive bleeding during or after childbirth. The procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia and sedation, and recovery is typically faster than with traditional open surgery. Potential risks include pain, bruising at the insertion site, and in rare cases, unintended blockage of healthy blood vessels.