Bronchial Artery Embolization as a Bridge to Lung Transplantation

Hemoptysis is a common complication in cystic fibrosis (CF), affecting approximately 8% of patients. Massive hemoptysis occurs in 4% of CF patients and accounts for 8.5% of deaths in patients without lung transplantation. Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is a life-saving intervention in patients with airway compromise or hemodynamic instability from hemoptysis. Despite the effectiveness of BAE in controlling hemoptysis acutely, CF patients who undergo BAE remain at increased risk for recurrent hemoptysis and death; therefore, evaluation for lung transplantation should be considered.