Endovascular embolization with self-made silk segment suspension in a rabbit model

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Endovascular embolization is a critical procedure for managing vascular abnormalities.
• Developing effective and safe embolic agents is an ongoing area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and histological impact of self-made silk segment suspension for external carotid artery embolization in rabbits.

Main Methods:

• Selective endovascular embolization of the external carotid artery was performed in 21 rabbits using three distinct silk suspensions.
• Histological changes were analyzed via angiography, light and electron microscopy, and functional examinations.

Main Results:

• Simple silk segments resulted in limited vascular changes with intact media and adventitia.
• Ethanol- or estrogen-soaked silk segments demonstrated significant destruction of all vascular wall layers (intima, media, adventitia).

Conclusions:

• Estrogen- or ethanol-soaked silk suspensions are effective and reliable agents for endovascular embolization.
• Estrogen-soaked silk demonstrated superior efficacy compared to ethanol-soaked silk.
• Simple silk suspension led to incomplete thrombosis and potential recurrence due to collateral circulation.