ETHIBLOC_Reloaded: First in vivo results of the re-designed zein-based fluid embolic agent

Purpose: To describe angiographic, computed-tomography (CT) and pathologic features of ETHIBLOC_Reloaded as a re-designed zein-based fluid embolic agent. Materials and methods: In eight pigs, both kidneys underwent selective transarterial embolization (with complete embolization as embolization endpoint). Each group consisted of two pigs with four embolized kidneys: I-pure ETHIBLOC_ Reloaded, II-ETHIBLOC_Reloaded/iodized oil mixture (1:1), III-ETHIBLOC_Reloaded/ ethanol-60% mixture (8:2) and IV-Histoacryl/iodized oil mixture (1:3). One hour after embolization, CT imaging, sacrifice and kidney harvest followed. Angiographic (visibility and vascular occlusion pattern), CT (visibility) and pathologic (vascular occlusion pattern) features were compared. Results: The embolization endpoint was reached in all animals. Applying Angiography, embolic agents were definitely visible during embolization in all study groups. Vascular occlusion occurred from distal (arcuate and interlobar arteries) to proximal (renal artery), whereby the most distal levels were reached in II and III. Applying CT imaging, embolic agents were definitely visible in hilar and intraparenchymal arteries in all groups. Pathology proved occlusion of segmental, interlobar and arcuate arteries in all groups, and additionally *Corresponding author: Christof M. Sommer, Clinic for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF 110, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Clinic for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany E-mails: [email protected], [email protected]