Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Gastrointestinal Bleeding Associated with Gastric Carcinoma: Prognostic Factors Predicting Successful Hemostasis and Survival

Purpose: To evaluate outcomes of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) for gastric cancer related gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and factors associated with successful TAE and improved survival after TAE. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 43 patients (34 men; age 60.6 +/- 13.6) with gastric cancer related GI bleeding undergoing angiography between January 2000 and December 2015. Clinical course, laboratory findings, and TAE characteristics were reviewed. Technical success of TAE was defined as target area devascularization, and clinical success was defined as bleeding cessation with hemodynamic stability during 72 hours after TAE. Student t test was used for comparison of continuous variables, and Fisher exact test was used for categorical variables. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify predictors of successful TAE and 30 -day survival after TAE. Results: TAE was performed in 40 patients. Technical and clinical success rates of TAE were 85.0% and 65.0%, respectively. Splenic infarction occurred in 2 patients as a minor complication. Rebleeding after TAE occurred in 7 patients. Death related to bleeding occurred in 5 patients. Active bleeding (P = .044) and higher transfusion requirement (3.3 U +/- 2.6 vs 1.8 U +/- 1.7; P = .039) were associated with TAE failure. Successful TAE predicted improved 30-day survival after TAE on univariate and multivariate analysis (P = .018 and P = .022; odds ratio, 0.132). Conclusion: TAE for gastric cancer associated GI bleeding may be a lifesaving procedure. Severe bleeding with a higher transfusion requirement and active bleeding on angiography predicted TAE failure.