Therapeutic embolization with detachable balloons. Physical factors influencing permanent occlusion.

Twenty-one detachable Silastic 3 balloon embolizations were performed in 12 swine. Late balloon rupture was associated in vivo with increased size and decreased radiopacity of the balloons. Variables affecting the permanency of occlusion by the Silastic balloons were the osmolarity of the contrast medium and the size of the balloon relative to its uninflated size.