Effects of experimental hepatic artery embolization on hepatic function.

The hepatic artery was embolized with Gelfoam in 12 dogs to evaluate the effect of embolization on hepatic function. Liver function studies, including SGPT, alkaline phosphatase, BSP test, and bilirubin, were done serially over a 6 week period following the embolization. Eleven of the 12 embolized dogs survived the 6 week experimental period. Hepatic artery embolization caused some liver damage; however, recovery occurred by 6 weeks. These results suggest a possible therapeutic role for hepatic artery embolization in patients with massive hepatic bleeding or hemobilia who are not surgical candidates and who would require hepatic lobectomy or dearterialization to control the bleeding.