1) Discuss triage of vascular injuries, target examinations for rapid diagnosis and treatment, and use IR techniques in the overall management of trauma patients. 2) Evaluate the advantages/risks inherent in transcatheter interventions in trauma. 3) Review properties, appropriate choice, and use of embolic agents. 4) Discuss the role of covered stents in treating various vascular injuries.
Interventional radiology procedures have become a valuable adjunct in the treatment of trauma victims, many of whom are critically ill. Minimally invasive techniques are not only highly successful, but they avoid anesthetic risks in patients who are already subject to cardiopulmonary complications. In addition, they can be performed faster and are more tissue sparing than surgery. Transcatheter embolization can be definitive therapy for suitable arterial injuries. Covered stent placement in critically injured patients is an excellent, minimally invasive alternative to major surgical procedures for treatment of large arterial branch injuries. A multi-disciplinary approach using all available resources is best to treat the complex problems of the polytraumatized patient. This is a collaborative effort, not competitive.
Hanks, S,
Embolization for Trauma. Radiological Society of North America 2010 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2010 ,Chicago IL.
http://archive.rsna.org/2010/9000595.html
