The use of cyanoacrylate adhesives in peripheral embolization

Although liquid adhesives or glue have been used as embolic agents for nearly three decades, experience with them outside of neurointerventional indications is generally limited. Cyanoacrylates are the main liquid adhesives used in the vascular system and have an important role in managing vascular abnormalities, especially arteriovenous malformations. Vascular occlusion results as these agents polymerize on exposure to the ions in blood. A description of the properties, biologic interactions, techniques of use, and indications for acrylic embolization in the peripheral circulation is especially pertinent at this time because of the recent approval of n-butyl cyanoacrylate by the United States Food and Drug Administration.