Hylan gel composition for percutaneous embolization

Viscoelastic, pseudoplastic, radiopaque injectable hylan gel for percutaneous embolization was developed and evaluated by in vitro and in vivo tests. The embolization gel is composed of cross-linked hylan (hyaluronan, hyaluronate), tantalum, microcrystalline cellulose, hexamethonium chloride, and thrombin. Upon delivery through small-lumen catheters to the appropriate vascular site, the gel induces formation of a solid blood/gel coagulum. Results from animal studies (rat aorta, rabbit auricular artery) demonstrate that formation of complete and long-lasting arterial blockage is readily achievable without complications due to blood flow, partial vessel obstruction, uncontrolled polymerization, or movement of the gel or its components (specifically thrombin and hexamethonium chloride) into the circulation. Microscopic evaluation indicates that arterial occlusion initially occurs as a result of the injected gel and formed fibrin; at 7 weeks and beyond, arteries are occluded by injected gel, inflammatory cells and fibrosis (scar tissue).