Neuro Embolization

This procedure uses X-ray and ultrasound guidance. A catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin, neck, or wrist and guided to the affected blood vessel. The abnormal vessel is then closed using coils, beads, or medical glues.

Before the procedure, patients will have a telemedicine or in-person visit to review medical history, undergo a physical exam, and determine if specialist recommendations (e.g., Cardiology, Endocrine, Pulmonary) are needed before anesthesia. This visit also helps patients and families understand what to expect on the day of the procedure.

The Day Before the Procedure

A Medical Imaging prescreening nurse will call to review:

• Diet restrictions
• Arrival times
• Medical history

The Day of the Procedure 

Upon arrival, the care team will:

• Review medical history and check vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure).
• Meet with your family to discuss the anesthesia plan.
• Obtain procedure consent from the Neuro IR provider.
• Assess the need for a peripheral IV (PIV) catheter, which will be placed if necessary by the preoperative nurse using numbing medication and Child Life Therapy for comfort.

During the Procedure

• Embolization is performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation by expert pediatric anesthesiologists.
• Procedure time varies based on the location, size, and complexity of the abnormality.

After the Procedure

• If embolization is the primary treatment (e.g., for low-flow venous/lymphatic malformations or AVMs in the face/neck), patients typically go home the same day.
• If performed in preparation for surgery or for brain/spinal cord treatment, an overnight stay in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit is required, with discharge the next day.

All procedures carry some risk, which varies based on the location of the abnormality. Brain and spine embolizations typically have higher risks than those in other areas.

Potential risks include:

• Infection or pain at the incision site
• Reaction to the X-ray contrast dye
• Injury to nearby blood vessels
  Non-target embolization (unintended blockage of a non-target vessel)

Your care team will discuss specific risks and benefits before scheduling the procedure.

During recovery, the arterial puncture site will be closely monitored for bleeding or swelling, and vital signs will be checked frequently.

• Groin access: Bedrest is required for a few hours unless a closure device is used.
• Wrist access: A pressure dressing remains for one hour.

Once stable, the patient will be discharged. A telemedicine follow-up will be scheduled in one month, and families will receive contact information for any concerns.