Embolization of Spinal Tumors: Vascular Anatomy, Indications, and Technique

• Published in: Techniques in vascular and interventional radiology Vol. 14; no. 3; pp. 129 - 140
• Main Authors: Ozkan, Efe, MD, Gupta, Sanjay, MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-09-2011
• Subjects: embolization; Embolization, Therapeutic - methods; Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine; Hemostatics - therapeutic use; Humans; Radiography, Interventional - methods; Radiology; Spinal Neoplasms - diagnostic imaging; Spinal Neoplasms - therapy; spinal tumors; spinal vascular anatomy; Spine - blood supply; Spine - diagnostic imaging; embolization; spinal vascular anatomy; spinal tumors
• ISSN: 1089-2516; 1557-9808
• DOI: 10.1053/j.tvir.2011.02.005

Involvement of the spine by primary and secondary tumors can be associated with mechanical instability, pain, and neurologic complications, all of which can adversely affect a patient's quality of life. When surgical excision is planned, preoperative embolization of spinal tumors reduces intraoperative blood loss, making surgery safer and easier. Embolization of spinal tumors can also be used to palliate pain and improve neurologic symptoms in patients with unresectable tumors. A detailed knowledge of the spinal vascular anatomy is essential before performing spinal tumor embolization. Indications, contraindications, embolization technique, and potential complications must be fully understood to ensure a safe and effective procedure. Although the technique used may vary among operators and institutions, familiarity with embolization goals and strategies can ensure sufficient tumor devascularization.