Ivalon embolization in abdominal neoplasms

Polyvinyl alcohol foam (Ivalon) particles were used in arterial embolization of abdominal neoplasms for tumor devascularization. The Ivalon particles are available in two sizes: small (0.25-0.59 mm) and large (0.60-1.0 mm). Twenty-five tumor embolizations in 22 patients (16 hepatic neoplasms, five renal carcinomas, one lumbar metastasis) were performed during a 4 month period. Occlusion of the embolized artery was documented by angiography in 24 procedures and by surgery in the remaining one. The postembolization syndrome was the same as that following Gelfoam embolization. Ivalon particles compared with Gelfoam cubes are advantageous in: (1) being easier to use; (2) reaching smaller arteries; and (3) causing more permanent occlusion.