Endovascular embolization of post-tonsillectomy pseudoaneurysm in adults.

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endovascular embolization in the treatment of post-tonsillectomy pseudoaneurysms.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of four consecutive adults who experienced secondary post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage (PTH) due to pseudoaneurysms. Hemoglobin loss was identified to access the blood loss of patients. All patients underwent endovascular embolization of the injured artery using superselective catheterization techniques.

Results: The angiogram revealed pseudoaneurysms in the ascending palatine artery in two patients, the facial artery in one patient, and the lingual artery in the other patient. Two patients were treated with endovascular embolization using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue, one patient was treated with coils, and one received a combination of coils and NBCA glue for embolization. All procedures were successful, with no clinical complications or rehemorrhage reported.

Conclusion: Endovascular embolization is an effective, feasible, and safe treatment option for the patients with post-tonsillectomy pseudoaneurysm. NBCA glue can be an effective and appropriate embolic material, but attention must be paid to the critical techniques involved.