Predilatation of a stenotic ostium of a bronchial artery, followed by embolization in recurrent hemoptysis

Bronchial artery embolization may be the only life-saving procedure available in a patient presenting with massive hemoptysis. Rarely, selective catheterization of these vessels may be rendered difficult due to a stenotic ostium. This may result in closure of the vessel or absence of forward flow after the stenotic segment is crossed with a diagnostic catheter or a microcatheter. Further, it may also lead to recurrence of hemoptysis if the distal vessel and the prearteriolar bed are inadequately embolized. We describe a technique of selective cannulation of the stenotic vessel, dilatation of the stenosis and then successful embolization.