Pre-Operative Embolization of Tumors is a minimally invasive neurointerventional procedure performed before surgical tumor removal to reduce blood loss, improve surgical visibility, and lower complication risks. It involves blocking the blood vessels that feed the tumor using materials like coils, glue, or particles—effectively “starving” the tumor of its blood supply before surgery.
At CARE CHL Hospital, Indore, under the expertise of Dr. Alok K. Udiya, this technique is routinely performed for highly vascular tumors of the brain, spine, head & neck, and even vertebral regions. With high-end imaging and precision catheterization, embolization minimizes intraoperative bleeding and makes tumor resection safer and more effective for the surgical team.
This service is especially important for:
- Meningiomas
- Paragangliomas/Glomus Tumors
- Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibromas (JNA)
- Spinal Hemangioblastomas
- Metastatic Tumors with Vascularity
Key Benefits of the Treatment
Pre-operative embolization offers multiple clinical and surgical benefits, such as:
- Reduced Blood Loss: Helps prevent excessive bleeding during surgery, lowering the need for transfusions.
- Improved Tumor Visibility: Makes the tumor less vascular and more defined, helping surgeons resect with precision.
- Shorter Surgery Time: Speeds up the surgical process by simplifying tumor handling.
- Better Surgical Outcomes: Leads to fewer complications, less postoperative swelling, and quicker recovery.
- Minimally Invasive: Carried out through a small arterial puncture with no surgical incision.
- High Success Rates: When done 24–72 hours before surgery, embolization enhances resectability in over 90% of cases.
- Safer for Difficult Locations: Especially useful for tumors located in deep or surgically sensitive areas.
How This Treatment Works
Pre-operative tumor embolization is performed in the angiography suite using fluoroscopic guidance and advanced catheter systems. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Evaluation and Imaging
Patients undergo detailed pre-procedure imaging, including:
- MRI with contrast
- Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA)
- CT Angiography (when needed)
This helps identify the tumor’s blood supply, feeding arteries, and collateral circulation—crucial for planning targeted embolization without affecting surrounding healthy tissue.
2. Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Anticoagulants may be paused based on medical advice.
- Hydration is encouraged; fasting may be required for a few hours.
- Allergy and renal function are evaluated due to contrast usage.
3. Catheterization and Embolization
- A catheter is introduced via the femoral artery (in the groin) or radial artery (in the wrist).
- Using fluoroscopic navigation, the catheter is guided to the arteries feeding the tumor.
- Once positioned, embolic agents like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles, coils, glue (NBCA), or liquid embolics like Onyx are injected.
- The goal is to permanently block the blood supply, leading to tumor ischemia (shrinkage).
4. Post-Procedural Monitoring
- Patients are monitored for 6–24 hours post-procedure.
- Surgery is typically scheduled within 1–3 days after embolization for maximum benefit.
- Any minor symptoms like pain or fever are managed conservatively.
Why Choose Dr. Alok K. Udiya for Tumor Embolization at CARE CHL Hospital?
Precision, timing, and safety are the pillars of effective tumor embolization. Here’s why patients and surgeons prefer to work with Dr. Alok K. Udiya:
- One of India’s leading Interventional Neuroradiologists with 15+ years of experience.
- Specialized in cranial and spinal tumor embolization.
- Access to high-end biplane DSA labs for accurate vascular mapping.
- Close collaboration with top neurosurgeons and spine surgeons.
- Uses a wide range of embolic materials for customized treatment.
- Strong reputation for handling complex and high-risk tumors.
FAQs – Pre-Operative Embolization of Tumors
Q1. Is tumor embolization painful?
The procedure itself is not painful as it is done under local or conscious sedation. Mild post-procedure discomfort may occur due to tumor ischemia but is usually manageable.
Q2. How long does the procedure take?
Depending on tumor complexity, the embolization procedure takes 1.5 to 3 hours.
Q3. What is the ideal timing for surgery after embolization?
Surgery is typically scheduled within 24 to 72 hours after embolization to take advantage of reduced blood flow and optimal surgical field.
Q4. Are there any risks involved?
While generally safe, minor risks include:
- Non-target embolization (rare with experienced hands)
- Transient pain or fever
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye
- Temporary neurological symptoms (in rare cranial tumors)
Q5. Is embolization a cure for the tumor?
No. Embolization is not a standalone cure but a preparatory procedure to make surgical removal safer and more effective.
Q6. What types of tumors benefit most from embolization?
Tumors that are highly vascular, such as meningiomas, hemangioblastomas, JNA, and some metastases, benefit significantly from embolization.
Q7. Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Yes, most comprehensive insurance plans cover embolization as part of the tumor treatment protocol. Our staff will assist with pre-authorizations and paperwork.
Q8. Will the tumor shrink after embolization?
The goal is not complete shrinkage but devitalization of the tumor, making it easier to remove surgically with less bleeding.
Q9. Can embolization be repeated?
In rare cases, if the tumor revascularizes or if it’s unresectable, repeat embolization may be considered as part of palliative care or symptom control.