In vivo microscopy of arterial distribution embolic particles in rabbit mesenteric artery

Purpose: To study the arterial distribution of embosphere microsphere (EM) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles in rabbit mesenteric artery using in vivo microscopy.To study the arterial distribution of embosphere microsphere (EM) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles in rabbit mesenteric artery using in vivo microscopy. Methods: Sixteen New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups, namely large PVA (560–710 μm), small PVA (150–350 μm), large EM (500–700 μm), and small EM (100–300 μm). The mesenteric arteries of the experimental animals were embolized under fluoroscopic guidance and visualized using in vivo microscopy. The embolized vessel diameter and arterial distribution of embolic agents were compared. Results: The diameters of occluded vessels in large PVA, small PVA, large EM, and small EM groups were 430.60 ± 67.30, 200.95 ± 70.54, 387.79 ± 92.51, and 143.81 ± 39.65 μm, respectively. PVA occluded significantly larger vessels than EM when the particle size was similar (P < 0.001). The proportion of EM at the bifurcation of the artery was significantly higher than that of PVA particles (large PVA < large EM, χ2 = 4.325, P < 0.038; small PVA < small EM, χ2 = 6.68, P < 0.01). Conclusion: Both PVA and EM could occlude vessels smaller than the particle size, and EM resulted in deeper penetration. The location of embolic particles in the artery is mainly related to the shape of particles

Transauricular arterial access for hepatic artery embolization in rabbit VX2 liver tumor

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of percutaneous transauricular artery access for hepatic artery catheterization using a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) device and hepatic artery catheterization through auricular approach. Methods: Ten New Zealand White rabbits were used to establish a VX2 liver tumor model. Hepatic artery angiography and embolization were performed 3 weeks after inoculation. The rabbits were restrained in supine position under anesthesia. Intra-arterial access was accomplished with percutaneous Seldinger technique through the auricular artery using a PICC device. The hepatic artery catheterization was performed with a microcatheter and guide wire. The rate of technical success and procedure time was investigated. Results: Two rabbits failed initial percutaneous transauricular arterial access, with success in a contralateral attempt. Thus, percutaneous transauricular arterial access was achieved in 10 of 12 auricular arteries, with a technical success rate of 83.3%. The time needed to obtain intra-auricular access was 7.2 ± 3.1 min. Hepatic artery catheterization, angiography, and embolization were accomplished through the auricular approach in all 10 rabbits. Conclusion: Arterial access in rabbits can be achieved through the auricular artery. Hepatic artery catheterization, angiography, and embolization can be performed through auricular arterial access