Transarterial Embolization for Cystic Artery Pseudoaneurysm Caused by Hepatocellular Carcinoma Rupture in the Gallbladder: A Case Report

Abstract

We report the rare case of an 80-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma that ruptured in the gallbladder, causing a cystic artery pseudoaneurysm and hemobilia. Emergency transarterial embolization (TAE) successfully controlled the bleeding without causing ischemic cholecystitis. Cone-beam computed tomography angiography was useful in identifying the bleeding branch of the selectively embolized cystic artery. Although the patient had poor liver function (Child-Pugh class C) before TAE, it remarkably improved after embolization due to the resolution of coagulopathy and obstructive jaundice caused by hemobilia. TAE was considered useful for this rare clinical condition.