Experimental evaluation of cellulose acetate NF and ethylene-vinyl alcoholcopolymer for selective arterial embolization

PURPOSE: Studies were conducted in rabbits to evaluate two new liquid polym eric compounds developed for selective arterial embolization, MATERIALS AND METHODS: The compounds consisted of cellulose acetate NF (Emb olyx C) or ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (Embolyx E) dissolved in anhydr ous dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) containing 30% tantalum powder. Acute renal e mbolization was performed to determine an optimal method of administration and level of embolization, Kidneys were embolized with and without flow aro und the catheter, DMSO was also injected in the same manner. Tissue section s were examined radiographically and microscopically, Tumor embolization wa s performed to evaluate the efficacy of the polymers and compare their embo lic effects with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles and gelatin sponge (Gelf oam) powder. An embolic agent, saline, or DMSO was injected into the deep f emoral artery feeding an intramuscular VX2 carcinoma, Animals were followed up for 3 weeks. RESULTS: Viscosity and administration technique affected polymer distributi on and depth of penetration. Embolization with the test polymers was quicke r and more easily achieved than with PVA or Gelfoam, and no recanalization occurred. Both polymers were as effective as PVA particles for tumor ablati on, but DMSO caused some vascular damage. CONCLUSION: Although use of DMSO has some drawbacks, the results of this st udy warrant further investigation of the Embolyx polymers for tumor emboliz ation.