Table 1. Physical properties of available embolic agents for use with cTACE.
| Embolic agent | Material | Size availability |
|---|---|---|
| Gelfoam | Porcine-derived gelatin | Varies based on preparation. Sheet form will typically produce particles ranging from 500 to 2,000 μm. Powdered form can reach sizes as low as 40 μm 82 |
| Contour PVA particles | PVA | 45–150, 150–250, 250–355, 355–500, 500–710, 710–100, and 1,000–1,180 μm. Manufacturing process may result in inconsistent sizing between individual particles 82 |
| Embozene | Hydrogel core with poly(bis[trifluoroethoxy]phosphazene) nanocoat | 30–50, 60–90, 75–125, 200–300, 350–450, 480–580, 650–750, 825–975, 1,025–1,175, and 1,225–1,375 μm |
| Embosphere | Acrylic smooth polymer matrix with bovine gelatin overcoat | 50–100, 40–120, 100–300, 300–500, 500–700, 700–900, and 900–1,200 μm |
| Bead Block | PVA hydrogel | 100–300, 300–500, 500–700, 700–900, and 900–1,200 μm |
| Degradable starch microsphere | Starch | Approximately 50 μm |
Abbreviations: cTACE, conventional transarterial chemoembolization; PVA, polyvinyl alcohol.