Investigation of the Physical Properties and Clinical Application of Embosphere Microspheres

Background: The aim of this study was to understand physical characteristics of Embosphere microspheres for the clinical use of microsphere chemotherapy embolization of liver cancer. Methods: The morphology of Embosphere microspheres in different states, including static, oscillating, and in a magnetic field was observed with the naked eye. Ninety-five patients diagnosed with primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were separated into 3 groups based on the types of embolic material as follows: 32 cases of sole microspheres, 34 cases of iodinated oil (17 cases with additional application of gelatin sponge particle), and 29 cases of iodinated oil + Embosphere microspheres. Results: The diameter of the microspheres ranged from 100 to 300 μm, with a sedimentation rate υ = 0.0375 cm/s in physiological saline. The diameter of microspheres ranged from 300 to 500 μm, with a sedimentation rate υ = 0.1875 cm/s. The swelling rate of microspheres was 90%. Microspheres showed nondirectional movement in a 1.5- or 3.0-T magnetic field during magnetic resonance imaging. A volumetric ratio of 1:1.4–1:1.5 between microspheres and contrast agent resulted in optimal suspension properties. Microspheres appeared circular with a smooth surface upon water adsorption. Microsphere embolism was observable in blood vessels of pathological sections. The surface of microspheres can adsorb 5-fluorouracil and arsenic trioxide. There are statistically significant differences in local-regional tumor control conditions among patients treated with sole microspheres, iodinated oil, and iodinated oil + microspheres during transarterial chemoembolization. Conclusions: Embosphere microspheres can be used to embolize patients with rupture and hemorrhage of HCC. Embosphere microsphere embolization is superior to iodinated oil and iodinated oil + microsphere for HCC.