Bronchial Artery Embolization (BAE) Non-Surgical Treatment for, Lahore

Bronchial Artery Embolization (BAE): Non-Surgical Treatment for Coughing Up Blood
Coughing up blood (Hemoptysis) is a medical emergency that can be life-threatening if not managed promptly. In Pakistan, where tuberculosis (TB) and post-TB complications are common, Bronchial Artery Embolization (BAE) has become the gold standard for stopping lung bleeding without the need for high-risk chest surgery.
As a Senior Consultant Interventional Radiologist with over 25 years of experience, Prof. Dr. Zaheer Sherazi (FRCR, UK) specializes in BAE, providing rapid, life-saving interventions in Lahore and Islamabad.
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What is Bronchial Artery Embolization (BAE)?
BAE is a minimally invasive radiological procedure used to stop bleeding from the bronchial arteries (the vessels that supply blood to your lungs).
How the Procedure is Performed:
1. Pinhole Access: Dr. Zaheer inserts a tiny catheter through a small nick in the groin (femoral artery) or wrist (radial artery).
2. Vessel Mapping: Under real-time X-ray guidance (Angiography), the bleeding artery is identified.
3. Stopping the Bleed: Small particles or tiny metallic coils are released into the specific artery to block the blood flow to the bleeding site.
4. Instant Results: The bleeding usually stops immediately during the procedure.
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Why Choose BAE Over Traditional Surgery?
For patients in Pakistan suffering from lung infections or tumors, BAE offers several critical advantages:
• No Large Incisions: No need to open the chest (Thoracotomy).
• Highly Effective: Successfully controls bleeding in over 90% of cases.
• Local Anesthesia: The procedure is done while the patient is awake and comfortable, avoiding the risks of general anesthesia.
• Preserves Lung Tissue: Unlike surgery, which may require removing a portion of the lung (Lobectomy), BAE only targets the damaged blood vessel.
• Rapid Recovery: Most patients are stabilized and can be discharged within 24–48 hours.
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Common Causes of Lung Bleeding in Pakistan
Dr. Zaheer Sherazi frequently treats patients with hemoptysis caused by:
• Tuberculosis (TB): Current or past TB infections (Post-TB Bronchiectasis).
• Aspergilloma: A fungal ball in the lung cavity.
• Lung Cancer: Bleeding from tumors.
• Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal connections between blood vessels in the lungs.
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Where is BAE Available?
Prof. Dr. Zaheer Sherazi performs BAE at Pakistan’s leading hospitals equipped with high-end Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) suites:
Lahore Locations:
• Farooq Hospital (DHA Phase 1): Specialized Cath Lab for emergency IR procedures.
• PKLI & RC: Advanced interventional radiology support.
• Doctors Hospital: Comprehensive vascular care.
Islamabad Locations:
• Shifa International Hospital: Leading center for complex lung interventions.
• NIRS (Northern Interventional Radiology Services): Specialized image-guided treatments.
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Cost of BAE in Pakistan (2026 Estimates)
While BAE is a specialized procedure, it is significantly more affordable than emergency lung surgery.
Note: Costs may vary based on the number of embolization particles/coils used and the hospital stay duration.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is BAE a permanent solution? In most cases, yes. However, if the underlying lung disease (like a chronic infection) is not treated, new vessels can occasionally form. Dr. Zaheer works closely with pulmonologists to ensure long-term care.
What are the risks? Minor risks include bruising at the entry site. Rare but serious risks include non-target embolization, which is why choosing an experienced Interventional Radiologist like Dr. Zaheer is crucial.
How do I prepare for BAE? In emergency cases, preparation is done in the ER. For elective cases, a CT Angiography (Chest) is usually required beforehand to map the lung vessels.
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Urgent Consultation with Dr. Zaheer Sherazi
If you or a family member are experiencing blood in your phlegm or a major coughing-up-blood event, time is of the essence.
• Emergency Contact/Appointments: 0326-4053417 | 0323-0825571