[Embolization of vertebral hemangioma. Technic-indications-results].

A series of 19 cases of vertebral hemangiomas treated by hyperselective embolization is reported. Localization is thoracic in 12 cases and lumbar in 7. Patients were referred for back pain in 10 cases, neurological signs of spinal cord compression in 5 and of radicular compression in 4. The first step is a precise analysis of the vascular pattern of each case with identification of the feeders of the spinal cord. Embolization as the only treatment, was proposed in 12 cases with painful manifestations. In 5 cases with symptoms of spinal cord compression, it was associated with surgery. The last 2 cases were not treated because of the close proximity of an Adamkiewicz artery. Results on painful symptoms were excellent in 9 cases and good in 3. There was no complications in this series. Therefore, we consider embolization to be a safe tool in the treatment of vertebral hemangiomas, with good efficiency on painful symptom and pre-operatively in case of spinal cord compression.