Preoperative tumor embolization

We performed an embolization of tumors which we considered to need preoperative embolization, such as deep-seated tumors, or hypervascular tumors. We experienced 12 such cases in the two-year period from September 1996. Eight cases were meningiomas, one case was a hemangiopericytoma, one case was an angiofibroma and two cases were glomus tumors. As embolic material, we usually use estrogen-alcohol and polyvinyl acetate which soften the tumor. When a provacative test is either impossible or positive, the distal induction of a microcatheter is impossible or a dangerous anastomosis is present, we select polyvinyl alchol particles (120 approximately 250mum) and liquid coils. We performed an embolization of a very hypervascular tumor, juvenile angiofibroma, by a direct tumor puncture, using a mixure of N-butylcyanoacrylate, lipiodol and tantalum powder. Angiography in all cases showed a reduction of the tumor stain. The embolic method should be selected based on a combination of such factors as the purpose of embolization, the identification of the feeding artery and the histological findings.