Embolization is performed by placing a small catheter inside the blood vessels that supply the area that is bleeding. Carefully navigating the catheter, under image guidance, to the safest and farthest point, a variety of different materials can then be used to block the bleeding vessels.

How long does an embolization procedure take?

Embolization takes from 30 minutes up to several hours depending on: how far the embolization site is from the catheter entry site.

Is embolization a surgical procedure?

Endovascular embolization (EE) is an invasive surgical procedure. It's used to treat abnormal blood vessels found in your brain, as well as other areas of your body. This procedure is an alternative to open surgery. It blocks blood vessels to cut off blood flow to an affected area.