Transcatheter arterial embolization using poly-L-lactic acid microspheres.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the use of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) microspheres as an embolic material in transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE).


METHODS
Between December 1993 and August 1995, eight patients [dural arteriovenous fistula (AVF) (n = 1), acute hemoptysis (n = 7)] underwent nine TAE procedures using PLLA microspheres. The patients were four men and four women, aged 38-82 years (mean, 62.4 years). All procedures were performed through a 3-F microcatheter inserted coaxially into a 5-F angiographic catheter via the right femoral artery.


RESULTS
TAE using PLLA was technically successful in all patients. Flow stasis of the targeted arteries was obtained immediately after TAE. Clinical symptoms improved immediately after the procedure, and there was no recurrence during the follow-up period. Procedure-associated complications were not observed, except for slight fever up to 38 degrees C for three days that was managed conservatively.


CONCLUSIONS
PLLA appeared to be a suitable embolic material for use in TAE when permanent occlusion is required. As PLLA particles can be prepared in any size, they are suitable for distal occlusion of arteries, thus avoiding proximal occlusion where the recruitment of collaterals is problematic.
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001164:Arteriovenous Fistula / Q000628:therapy*; D020785:Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / Q000628:therapy*; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019344:Lactic Acid; D008297:Male; D008863:Microspheres; D008875:Middle Aged; D011091:Polyesters; D011108:Polymers
D011091:Polyesters; D011108:Polymers; D019344:Lactic Acid; C033616:poly(lactide)