Role of Transarterial Embolization in the Management of Hepatic Artery Pseudoaneurysm Postlaparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Purpose To assess the safety and effectiveness of transarterial embolization (TAE) in the management of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysms following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Materials and Methods This is a retrospective study consisting of 13 patients who had undergone TAE for management of pseudoaneurysms of the hepatic artery or its branches following LC. Patients presented with symptoms such as hypotension, hematemesis, melena or gradual anemia post LC. Abdominal CT revealed hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm in all patients. TAE was performed with either coils or N-butyl cyanoacrylate or both. We evaluated technical and clinical effectiveness and complications of TAE. Results TAE was successful both technically and in stopping bleeding in all patients (100% technical and clinical success). No patient had rebleeding after TAE. Four patients required laparotomy for draining hemoperitoneum and clots. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for hemobilia or bile duct injury was done in eight patients. Following TAE, hepatic infarct was observed in three patients. Postembolization syndrome was seen in four patients and one patient died due to sepsis. Conclusions TAE is effective for treatment of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysms after LC. Hepatic infarcts and postembolization syndrome are the most common complications and can be managed conservatively.