Abstract

The term massive haemoptysis is generally used to denote expectoration of at least 600 ml of blood in 24-48 hours. Surgical management is associated with high mortality and morbidity in acute situations. Bronchial artery embolisation (BAE) is a well-known and useful alternative modality in the management of life-threatening haemoptysis. In this study, five cases who have been hospitalised because of massive haemoptysis occurring after minor haemoptysis attacks and who underwent BAE have been examined. Long-term follow-up data have also been evaluated. Except early relapses that occurred in two cases, haemoptysis attacks have been totally and successfully controlled with BAE. Finally, BAE is an effective and safe therapeutic modality in the management of massive and frequently recurring minor haemoptysis attacks.