[Management of massive hemoptysis]

Abstract

Massive hemoptyses are serious clinical conditions that can quickly jeopardize the vital prognosis. The major risk is asphyxiation, due to the bleeding into the tracheobronchial tree. The clinician should provide in parallel support for diagnosis and treatment, locating the bleeding but also finding its cause. Such patients should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team, having quick access to an important technical support. The association fiberoptic bronchoscopy-chest CT scan seems to be the most effective to locate and identify the cause of the bleeding. The development of bronchial artery embolization has revolutionized the management of these patients, replacing surgery in many of its indications. The latter still keeps a place in the management of these patients. Indeed, it is the main etiological treatment, preventing the vast majority of recidivism. It is absolutely indicated in the treatment of bleeding from the pulmonary vessels, and in case of failure of other techniques. It should be performed whenever possible away from the episode of hemoptysis, in order to minimize the operative risk.