Nonselective Bilateral Embolization of Internal Iliac Arteries with N-Butyl-2-Cyanoacrylate in Hemodynamically Unstable Patients with Pelvic Fracture

PURPOSE: This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nonselective bilateral embolization of the internal iliac arteries (IIAs) with n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) in hemodynamically unstable patients with pelvic fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twelve patients underwent nonselective bilateral embolization of the IIAs using NBCA diluted with lipiodol at our institution between January 2004 and March 2014. We analyzed the time of bilateral occlusion of the IIAs, the time from admission to entrance into the interventional radiology room, the need for repeat embolization, outcomes, cause of death, follow-up period, and complications. RESULTS: The mean duration of bilateral occlusion of the IIAs was 17 min (range, 4-34 min), and the mean time from admission to entrance into the interventional radiology room was 89 min (range, 28-168 min). All patients underwent technically successful embolization. Repeat embolization was required after treatment in three patients. The mortality rate was 33.3%. Complications after embolization were suspected in one patient. CONCLUSIONS: Nonselective bilateral embolization of IIAs with NBCA could be a choice of treatment for hemodynamically unstable patients with severe pelvic fracture hemorrhage.