Treatment of Acute Delayed Visceral Hemorrhage After Pancreatic Surgery From Hepatic Arteries with Covered Stents

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Delayed visceral hemorrhage following pancreatic surgery is a rare but life-threatening complication. Usually hemorrhage originates from pseudoaneurysms secondary to pancreatic or biliary fistula. Re-laparotomy is often associated with high morbidity and mortality. Endovascular occlusion with metallic coils can stop pseudoaneurysmatic bleeding, but hepatic artery occlusion can result in severe organ damage. Interventional treatment with covered stents is an alternative providing persistent organ perfusion. RESULTS: In our department endovascular stenting for visceral hemorrhage was introduced in November 2008. From November 2008 until October 2009, 303 patients underwent pancreat..