[Transcatheter embolization of the hypogastric artery as a hemostatic method in obstetrics and gynecology].

Transcatheter embolization of the hypogastric artery and its branches (AHTE) is an effective procedure to identify the injured vessel and to stop the bleeding under angiographic guidance. In this work the author presents a review regarding the indications and technical performance of this method in the management of postpartum bleeding refractory to classical treatment. The advantages and place of the embolization are discussed as an alternative method compared to surgical hemostasis. AHTE in obstetric hemorrhage is a safe procedure compared to surgical ligation of the injured artery, especially in the cases of massive haematomas of the paravaginal and/or retroperitoneal space when local haemostasis is ineffective or impossible. The importance of the cooperation between gynecologist and radiologist, performing the adjuvant treatment has been emphasized.