Quantitative determination of embolization endpoints based on local arterial pressure

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Optimizing embolization endpoint is crucial for therapeutic success and preventing complications like ectopic embolism.
• Current methods lack quantitative standardization, leading to potential overuse of embolic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a quantitative method for assessing the embolization endpoint using local arterial blood pressure.
• To minimize embolic agent usage and improve procedural outcomes in embolization therapy.

Main Methods:

• Simulated hemodynamic changes using a porous medium model for terminal resistance vessels.
• Developed an in vitro experimental platform to replicate embolization.
• Established a quantitative endpoint evaluation method based on local arterial blood pressure.
• Validated the method through in vivo renal artery embolization experiments in pigs.

Main Results:

• The pressure-based method accurately predicted pressure and flow rate changes (1.65% error in simulations, 3.09% in vitro).
• Animal studies showed close correlation with imaging, reducing embolic agent by 17.86%.
• Local arterial blood pressure proved a reliable and quantitative criterion for endpoint assessment.

Conclusions:

• Local arterial blood pressure offers a standardized, quantitative approach to determining the embolization endpoint.
• This method holds significant clinical value for reducing radiation exposure and automating embolization procedures.
• The findings support improved safety and efficiency in embolization therapy for solid tumors.