Embolizers

Embolizers are medical devices used to create an embolus, which is a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel. They are primarily used in interventional radiology and vascular surgery to treat conditions such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and certain types of tumors. Embolizers come in various forms, including coils, particles, and liquid embolic agents, each designed to occlude blood vessels in specific ways.

Coils are the most commonly used embolizers. They are typically made of platinum or niobium and are inserted into the blood vessel through a catheter. Once in place, the coil expands to block the vessel, preventing blood flow. Particulate embolizers, such as microspheres, are used to treat larger vessels and are often made of materials like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or gelatin. Liquid embolic agents, such as Onyx, are injected into the blood vessel and solidify to block the flow.

The choice of embolizer depends on the specific condition being treated, the size and location of the vessel, and the patient's overall health. Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia, making it an attractive option for many patients. However, like any medical intervention, embolization carries risks, including complications such as stroke, embolization syndrome, and device migration.

Embolizers are a crucial tool in the management of vascular conditions, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical approaches. They are used in conjunction with other diagnostic and therapeutic techniques to achieve optimal patient outcomes.