New technique for localization of therapeutic emboli using radionuclide labeling

A sensitive method for localizing the resting place of catheter-injected therapeutic gelatin emboli is described. Surgical gelatin (Gelfoam) is labeled with 99mTc and each embolus observed on the persistence scope of a gamma camera after injection. This technique reduces the chance of obstructing blood vessels other than those intended. Two cases of embolization, one arterial and one venous, are illustrated.