There are many different events which may lead to
excessive and uncontrolled bleeding within the body. This can occur
as a result of inflammation and ulcerations, abnormalities in the
blood vessels or trauma-related injuries. Individuals with
predisposing conditions, such as cardiac patients, are at
particular risk of internal bleeding due to the anticoagulants they
are often prescribed as a preventive measure. They are also prone
to gastrointestinal bleeds, affecting 40% of patients who are on
cardiac assistance devices. In addition to the need for an
effective treatment for these conditions, there are also
indications for controlling the blood flow that contribute to
aneurysms and tumor cell vascularization.
