Endovascular embolization using hydrogel microspheres

Abstract

Controlled alkaline hydrolysis of crosslinked poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microspheres produced highly hydrophilic, smooth, compressible, nearly perfect microspheres having a range of water content 40-95%. These particles were found to possess many desirable properties as a material for therapeutic embolization. After successful toxicological and animal evaluation, these particles were used to treat various ailments such as arteriovenous malformations (AVM) of the brain, spinal cord, limbs, face and trunks, preoperative devascularization of tumours and in the management of severe life-threatening haemoptysis and haematemesis in clinical trials involving over 90 patients at this Institute. The results of these studies appeared to be very encouraging. The material is found to be an ideal embolic agent in all these clinical situations.