Embolization of small vessels with a double-lumen microballoon catheter. Part II: Laboratory, animal, and histological studies. Work in progress.

A double-lumen microballoon catheter system measuring 0.5-0.85 mm in outer diameter (1.3-2.8 F) was fabricated for passage through standard 4.1 and 5 F catheters. By arresting circulation with the balloon, embolization with low-viscosity silicone rubber, ethanol, or isobutyl-2-cyanoacrylate can proceed in a methodical, unhurried manner, permitting precise control of tissue penetration and preventing paradoxical embolization of other vessels. Problems such as gluing the catheter in situ with cyanoacrylate did not occur. The catheter may also be inserted during surgery to control embolization at a remote site, which did result in the catheter being glued in situ in one case.