[Transcatheter embolization of the hypogastric artery in patients with tumors of the bladder and uterus].

In 31 patients (24 with urinary bladder carcinoma and 7 with gynaecological tumors) artificial embolisation of the hypogastric artery was effected using small spongy pieces of Gelaston or Spongostan or haemostyptic sponge. Uncontrollable bleedings supplied the indication for this measure. Bleeding stopped in 24 patients (19 tumours of the bladder and 5 gynaecological tumours) and was considerably reduced in 7 patients (5 bladder and 2 gynaecological tumours). Side effects in a major proportion of the patients consisted of pain or elevated temperature or fever lasting for several days. Our own experience has shown that embolisation of the hypogastric artery is a valuable method that does not expose the patient to the undoubtedly greater stress of an operation. Embolisation should be bilateral as far as possible and should be selective but not superselective.