UC Irvine

Interventional radiology plays an integral role in the management of massive and recurrent submassive hemoptysis. Risks of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) are well described and include spinal ischemia and paralysis, most often related to nontarget embolization of the artery of Adamkiewicz or other large radiculomedullary artery supplying the anterior spinal artery. There is increasing literature regarding spinal infarction following BAE when arterial supply to the spinal cord was not evident. The existence of unrecognized patient comorbidities may further contribute to procedural risks.