(0721) Results of Targeted Embolization for Bleeding Head and Neck Tumors: A Single Institution Experience

Introduction: Bleeding from head and neck tumors is a common complication before, during, and after definitive treatment. Embolization is sometimes required to control hemorrhages.

Methods: The charts of 66 head and neck cancer patients with bleeds at Cooper University Hospital were reviewed for details about the tumors, bleeds, and embolization outcomes.

Results: In a series of 66 consecutive head and neck cancer patients with bleeds, 27.3% required embolization. Of the 18 patients that required embolization, 7 occurred prior to treatment (defined as resection, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy) and 11 after completion of treatment. The most common subsite was the oropharynx (38.9%) and larynx/pharynx (38.9%).  The most common pathology was squamous cell carcinoma (77.8%). The most common vessels targeted for embolization were the lingual and facial arteries (31.8% and 18.2%). Embolization was able to achieve definitive control of the hemorrhage in 100% of cases.

Conclusions: Embolization is often effective in controlling hemorrhage in head and neck cancers.