OPTEM-oHCM: OPtimal Targeted Polymer-based EMbolization for Obstructive Hypertrophic CardioMyopathy
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 8, 2026

A Hydrogel Construct and Fibrin-based Glue Approach to Deliver Therapeutics in a Murine Myocardial Infarction Model.
Published on: June 14, 2015
Evandro Martins Filho1, Thiago Schumann Munhoz2, Sidney Munhoz Júnior3
1Department of Interventional Cardiology, Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Maceió, Maceió, Brazil.
Background:
Obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy often requires septal reduction in symptomatic patients, but standard alcohol septal ablation may be limited in some cases.
Case Summary:
A 72-year-old woman presented with dyspnea and syncope. Investigations revealed dynamic left ventricular outflow tract gradient up to 167 mm Hg. Targeted embolization using ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer on septal and circumflex branches achieved complete gradient resolution.
Discussion:
This case demonstrates polymer-based embolization as a feasible alternative for complex cases, offering precise targeting beyond traditional septal branches, aligned with current guidelines for nonsurgical candidates.
Take-Home Messages:
Polymer embolization provides effective left ventricular outflow tract relief in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with atypical supply. Functional balloon testing optimizes outcomes in high-risk patients.
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