Endovascular polymer treatment is a relatively new and expanding field.
Clinical uses include treatments for arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and
aneurysms. Current endovascular occlusion techniques use materials such as
isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate, polyvinyl alcohol, ethanol, hyaluronic acid gels, and
cellulose acetate. These materials have many disadvantages, including their
toxicity, requirement for organic solvents, and difficulty of application.
Researchers at Arizona State University and the University of Michigan have
optimized the properties of the two-component polymer calcium alginate for use
for in vivo endovascular occlusion. By optimizing its biocompatibility, gelled
mechanical stability, and pre-gel viscosity, they were able to develop a
material that could be delivered from microcatheters and could withstand in vivo
blood pressures without dislodging or degrading.
This optimized alginate is a versatile tool for occluding blood vessels in
many situations. Additionally, because calcium alginate fills the blood vessel
lumen without adhering to the vascular wall, it does not cause tissue insult or
exhibit the biocompatibility problems associated with polymer glues.
Potential Applications
- endovascular occlusion, such as for treating arteriovenous malformations
and aneurysms
Benefits and Advantages
- Biocompatible
- occludes via mechanical blockage, with no adhesion to vascular walls that
could cause tissue insult
- two liquid components have low viscosity for easy of delivery via
microcatheters
- good mechanical stability after gelation
- does not require organic solvents
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