Endovascular and percutaneous embolization of hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm: Etiology, embolic agents and technical success, and experience from a single center

Backgrounds/Aims: Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) is a condition associated with high mortality rates when untreated. Current literature lacks comprehensive understanding of complication rates and optimal treatment strategies. This study aims to analyze the etiology, technical success, and complication rates associated with endovascular and percutaneous management of HAP. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted, examining data on demographics, comorbidities, etiology, and embolic agents. A comparative analysis of hemoglobin levels, liver function tests, and renal function tests was performed before and 24-48 hours after the procedure. Results: The study included 49 patients (71% males) with a mean age of 46.44 (± 15.88) years. The common etiologies were post-operative complications (36.7%) and blunt abdominal trauma (26.5%). The right hepatic artery (RHA) was the most frequently involved site (57%). Endovascular embolization involved the use of coils, glue, and stent grafts, while percutaneous embolization was performed in six cases. The technical success rate for the endovascular approach was 97.6%, compared to 33% for the percutaneous approach. Hemoglobin levels stabilized post-procedure (mean post-procedure 8.9 g/dL vs. 7.9 g/dL at presentation), indicating effective hemostasis. Post-procedural complications included transient elevation of liver enzymes (22.4%), hepatic abscess (4.1%), and cholangitis (2.0%). Conclusions: HAP is primarily caused by iatrogenic injury or blunt abdominal trauma, with a predilection for the RHA. Endovascular therapy proves to be a safe and effective treatment for this life-threatening condition. Although high technical success rates are achievable, the potential for ischemic complications necessitates a tailored treatment approach and the implementation of prophylactic measures when indicated.