Tumor Embolization

Tumor embolization is a minimally invasive procedure where tiny particles or special agents are used to block the blood vessels supplying a tumor. By cutting off this blood flow, the tumor shrinks, becomes less active, or becomes safer to remove surgically. This technique is commonly used for brain tumors, head and neck tumors, spinal tumors, and highly vascular growths that bleed easily. It helps reduce complications, improves surgical safety, and offers symptom relief in select patients.

This procedure significantly reduces tumor blood supply, which lowers the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery and stabilizes large or aggressive tumors. Patients often experience relief from headaches, swelling, or pressure symptoms depending on tumor location. Embolization can also improve surgical outcomes by making the tumor smaller, softer, and easier to approach. In certain cases, it provides palliation by slowing tumor growth or controlling symptoms when surgery is not possible.

Tumor embolization is typically advised when a tumor is highly vascular or located in a sensitive region where surgery alone poses higher risks. It is commonly used for meningiomas, juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas (JNA), glomus tumors, spinal vascular tumors, and certain metastatic lesions. Specialists may also recommend it before biopsy or major surgery to minimize bleeding. In select cases, it serves as a standalone therapy for symptom control.