Table 2.

Commonly used embolic materials and characteristics.

Embolic agent	Advantages	Limitations
PARTICLES
PVA	Microvasculature penetration	Radiolucent
	Easy to use	Irregular shapes may allow recanalization
Microspheres	Microvasculature penetration	Fragile
	Minimal clumping	Many are radiolucent
Gelfoam	Medium to large vessel occlusions	Temporary
	Inexpensive, easy to use
LIQUID AGENTS
nBCA	Rapid solidification and occlusion	Rapid solidification
	Can flow into complex angioarchitecture	Catheter retainment
Onyx	Slower solidification	Catheter retainment
	Can flow into complex angioarchitecture
COILS
Coils	Precise deployment	Possible dislodgement and embolization
	Useful in high-flow vessels