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Tantalum-loaded polyurethane microspheres for particulate embolization: preparation and properties
B C Thanoo1, M C Sunny, A Jayakrishnan
1Polymer Chemistry Division, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
Biomaterials
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Radiopaque polyurethane microspheres were developed for medical embolization. Surface modification improved catheter passage, enhancing their potential as embolization agents.
Area of Science:
- Polymer chemistry
- Biomaterials science
- Radiology
Background:
- Polyurethane microspheres are investigated for medical applications.
- Radiopacity and lubricity are desirable properties for embolization agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize radiopaque polyurethane microspheres.
- To improve microsphere properties for enhanced embolization procedures.
Main Methods:
- Condensation polymerization of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and poly(tetramethylene glycol) (PTMG).
- Incorporation of tantalum powder for radiopacity.
- Surface grafting of methacrylic acid (MA) via gamma radiation.
- Hydrophilization by converting MA to its sodium salt.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized polyurethane microspheres (150-1500 microns) with tantalum.
- Achieved good radiopacity in Ta-loaded microspheres.
- Surface modification imparted hydrophilicity and reduced friction, enabling passage through catheters.
Conclusions:
- Tantalum-loaded, surface-modified polyurethane microspheres demonstrate potential as radiopaque embolization agents.
- Improved lubricity facilitates navigation through medical catheters.
- These microspheres offer a promising new option for embolization therapies.