Microparticle Shape Reveals a Key Role in Long-Term Particulate Endovascular Stability of Transarterial Embolization Treatment

Transarterial embolization (TAE) is a widely used interventional procedure for treating various diseased vascular conditions, including tumors and arteriovenous malformations. The success of the TAE relies heavily on the effectiveness and stability of embolic agents used to occlude target vessels. While considerable attention has been given to the material and size of embolic particles, the role of the particulate shape in endovascular stability has been less explored. This study investigates how the geometric properties of embolic particles influence their behavior within the vascular system, particularly regarding their retention, distribution, and overall stability after deployment. We demonstrate that particle shape significantly affects the dynamics of embolic agents, with capsule-shaped particles exhibiting enhanced adherence to vessel walls, reducing the likelihood of migration and improving the long-term occlusion stability. In contrast, spherical particles are more prone to dislodgement, leading to suboptimal embolization and potential complications. These findings underscore the critical importance of particulate shape in optimizing the endovascular stability of TAE, suggesting that tailored embolic agents with specific morphological properties could improve clinical outcomes by enhancing the treatment's durability and efficacy.