Preoperative embolization of a cavernous hemangioma of the rectum

Abstract

Colorectal cavernous hemangioma is a rare benign vascular neoplasia that may be found in any segment of the colon and cause recurrent and painless rectal bleeding. Standard treatment of rectal hemangioma consists of resection of the affected segment followed by coloanal anastomosis. Massive bleeding during the operation is the most feared complication, especially during extensive resection or reoperation. The authors describe a preoperative embolization of a rectal hemangioma with Onyx-18® and microspheres, in a 49-year-old patient with successful prevention of uncontrolled hemorrhage during surgery.

Preoperative rectal tumor embolization as an adjunctive tool for bloodless abdominoperineal excision: A case report

“…In pelvic tumors, devascularization rates greater than 75% can be obtained[ 11 ]. In our experience, PE was safe and successfully reduced intraoperative bleeding in a patient with a giant cavernous hemangioma of the rectum[ 12 ]. Although relatively simple and safe, PE can lead to significant tumor necrosis and a higher risk of bleeding, therefore, surgical resection of the tumor mass must be performed early.…”