Gelatin sponge in therapeutic neuroradiology: a subject review

Gelatin sponge (Gelfoam) has been used extensively in transcatheter vascular occlusions. Its main disadvantage has been its biodegradable characteristics. In the present era of multiple and various embolic agents, the use of Gelfoam in therapeutic transvascular embolization is reevaluated. Its use as microparticles to obtain occlusion at the precapillary or capillary level in neoplastic conditions, or as a temporary block to protect normal territory, and its use in the control of hemorrhage are discussed.