Therapeutic arterial embolisation was performed in 48 patients. Gelfoam, Oxycel, Bucrylate, Gianturco wire coils and lyophilised dura mater were used. Indications included control of acute haemorrhage, pre-operative vascular reduction, palliation of inoperable lesions, or to render such lesions operable, and elective definitive treatment. The technique was not considered to be of significant value as a pre-operative measure but was successful for the control of haemorrhage, the management of inoperable lesions and as an elective definitive treatment for various unusual lesions. One patient died and three had complications. The choice of occlusive material is discussed and depends upon the nature and vascularity of the lesion and whether short- or long-term occlusion is required.