Trans-arterial embolisation (TAE) in haemorrhagic pelvic injury: review of management and mid-term outcome of a major trauma centre

BACKGROUND: Management of pelvic fracture associated haemorrhage is often complex with high morbidity and mortality rates. Different treatment options are used to control bleeding with an on-going discussion in the trauma community regarding the best management algorithm. MAIN BODY: Recent studies have shown trans-arterial embolisation (TAE) to be a safe and effective technique to control pelvic fracture associated haemorrhage. Computed tomography (CT) evidence of active bleeding, haemodynamic instability, and pelvic fracture patterns are amongst important indicators for TAE. CONCLUSION: Herein, we aim to provide a comprehensive literature review of the effectiveness of TAE in controlling haemorrhage secondary to pelvic fracture according to the indications, technique and embolic agents, and outcomes, whilst incorporating our Level 1 major trauma centre’s (MTC) results between 2014-2017. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1186/s42155-018-0031-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.