What potential complication can arise from non-target embolization during interventional radiology procedures?

Non-target embolization can lead to significant complications as it involves the unintended obstruction of blood vessels supplying organs that were not the intended target of the procedure. When embolic agents are mistakenly released into the bloodstream and occlude vessels feeding areas such as the liver or pancreas, it can result in tissue ischemia.

Ischemia in the liver can cause tissue damage and may lead to the formation of a liver abscess. This occurs when infected necrotic tissue in the liver creates a collection of pus, resulting from the body’s response to injury and infection.

Similarly, if embolization affects the blood supply to the pancreas, it can lead to pancreatitis. The pancreas is sensitive to changes in blood flow, and a reduction in its vascular supply can induce inflammation of the organ, potentially leading to acute or chronic pancreatitis.

Therefore, both liver abscess and pancreatitis are recognized complications stemming from non-target embolization during interventional radiology procedures, highlighting the importance of precision in such interventions to avoid these serious outcomes.