Bronchial artery embolization in cystic fibrosis; technique and long-term results.

Severe bronchial hemorrhage in 13 patients with cystic fibrosis was treated by 
catheter embolization of bronchial arteries. Indications were either excessive bleeding persisting 
for several days, or bleeding serious enough to interfere with pulmonary 
drainage and recurring over weeks or months. In follow-up ranging from 
one to 30 months, cessation of major bleeding was achieved in 
12 of 13 patients (93%), although 5 of 13 patients (40%) 
did have recurrence of minor hemoptysis. No neurologic or other major 
complications were encountered. However, there are potential risks and this approach 
at present should be limited to patients with life-threatening bleeding and 
carried out only by experienced angiographers. 