Image-guided embolization using Ta@Ca-Alg microspheres with optimized mechanical performance.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Interventional Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) utilizes embolic agents, but current microspheres often lack radiopacity and optimal properties.
• Limitations include unpredictable trajectories, non-target delivery, and suboptimal embolization, impacting treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel tantalum-loaded calcium alginate (Ta@Ca-Alg) microspheres with intrinsic radiopacity, tunable density, and mechanical properties.
• To evaluate the synthesized microspheres for their suitability as advanced embolic agents in TAE procedures.

Main Methods:

• Ta@Ca-Alg microspheres were synthesized using a gas-shearing method.
• Characterization included size, morphology, swelling, density, radiopacity, and mechanical property analysis.
• In vitro hemocompatibility, sterility, cytotoxicity, and phantom model testing were performed.

Main Results:

• Ta@Ca-Alg microspheres exhibited narrow size distribution and enhanced radiopacity with increasing tantalum concentration, comparable to clinical contrast agents.
• Tunable density and Young's modulus were achieved.
• Phantom models demonstrated effective vessel occlusion and controlled penetration, with excellent biocompatibility confirmed in vitro.

Conclusions:

• Ta@Ca-Alg microspheres represent a promising radiopaque embolic agent with optimized physical properties for TAE.
• These novel microspheres offer significant potential for improved precision and outcomes in embolization procedures.