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Embolization is the process of cutting off the blood flow to the tumor, or in essence, "starving" it of the oxygen it needs to exist and grow. This procedure typically is performed by an Interventional Radiologist (IR) or Interventional Neuroradiologist, depending upon the location of the tumor or malformation who uses X-ray to view the circulatory system leading up to and surrounding the tumor. The IR makes a small incision and uses a combination of special catheters and guidewires inside the vessels to locate the tumor. The IR will then use the catheter to deposit small spheres that block the blood flow to the tumor. You can use the Society of Interventional Radiologists'
IR Locator
to find an Interventional Radiologist near you.

Demonstration of a Tumor Embolization

Currently, there are a few options as to what the IR will use to block, or embolize, the blood flow to the tumor. In 2000, the FDA approved a product from BioSphere Medical called Embosphere® Microspheres. They are very small, round microspheres that are made of biocompatible materials that have been used inside the body for many years. Embosphere Microspheres have an extensive clinical history, having been used in over 15,000 patients over the past eight years. You may also see our Online Presentation.

The technology for EmboGold™ Microspheres is based upon the same technology as Embosphere Microspheres. In 2001, this second generation product was introduced by BioSphere Medical. EmboGold Microspheres are colored for increased visibility during preparation and are packaged for enhanced ease of use. Click here to view a Patient Information Guide.

Other materials used to embolize tumors include particles made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), gelfoam, or metal coils, the most common being PVA. While PVA has been used for a long time for embolization, the inconsistent particle size and shape can potentially aggregate and block vital distil blood flow to healthy tissue or clog catheters during injection.

Embosphere Microspheres
                 PVA
Click images for a larger view

Regardless of the embolic agent used, the procedure usually takes one to two hours to complete. Typically patients can go home in 24 hours and be back to normal activities in 4-7 days.

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Controlled, Targeted Embolization

BioSphere Medical's microspheres are precisely calibrated, spherical, hydrophilic, micro-porous beads made of an acrylic co-polymer (trisacryl) which is then cross-linked with gelatin. This proprietary and patented design allows a more complete and targeted occlusion of the blood vessels feeding a hypervascularized tumor or arteriovenous malformation. Furthermore, the hydrophilic surface and spherical shape prevent aggregation within the catheter lumen and in the vasculature, promoting ease and accuracy of delivery. Finally, the elastic properties of the microspheres also allow the temporary deformation of the sphere, which facilitates the passage through small delivery systems.

Click images for a larger view
Embosheres:
  • Flexible spheres
  • Non Aggregating
  • Uniform occlusion
  • Predictable penetration
  • PVA:
  • Irregular shape
  • Clumping
  • Non-uniform occlusion
  • More proximal occlusion


  • Click images for a larger view
    Compressible and Hydrophilic:
    Elastic shape and hydrophilic surface prevent aggregation within the catheter, simplifying handling and promoting accurate delivery to the target vessel.

    Preparation and Administration
    One of the major benefits to Embosphere® Microspheres and EmboGold™ Microspheres is the packaging design which allows ease of use. In order to leverage the benefits derived from the packaging, it is important to follow some very simple preparation and administration steps. Please contact your local sales representative to schedule an in-service with one of our clinical specialists.

    For details on how to Prepare and Administer EmboGold Microspheres,
    please click here

    Click here for a Microcatheter Compatibility Chart

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