What is a common use for vascular plugs in interventional radiology?

In interventional radiology, vascular plugs are primarily used for the occlusion of blood vessels. This technique is often necessary in various clinical scenarios, such as controlling bleeding, treating arteriovenous malformations, or during embolization procedures to block off blood supply to a tumor.

Vascular plugs are designed to be delivered through a catheter to precisely target the area where occlusion is needed. They work by physically blocking the flow of blood in the vessel, which can help manage conditions effectively and minimize complications that may arise from excessive blood flow or hemorrhage. Their use allows for a minimally invasive approach to achieve vascular occlusion, making it a preferred method in many procedures within interventional radiology.

Other listed uses, such as the introduction of contrast media or the creation of access points, do not pertain to the function of vascular plugs. Additionally, while stent placement is an important aspect of vascular interventions, it involves different devices and methods than those used with vascular plugs. The focus of vascular plugs specifically on occluding blood vessels is what distinguishes them in the context of interventional procedures.