Uterine artery embolization in sheep: comparison of acute effects with Embosphere microspheres and Embosoft microspheres

BackgroundEmbolization plays a significant role in interventional radiology and modern medicine, intersecting with several specialties. The technological advancement of embolic agents has contributed to successful outcomes in the treatment of a wide range of diseases.PurposeTo compare the histomorphological effects of Embosoft microspheres and Embosphere microspheres in uterine artery embolization (UAE) in sheep.Material and MethodsSuperselective and bilateral UAE was performed with Embosoft and Embosphere microspheres in 10 adult non-pregnant sheep. Embosoft microspheres with a diameter of 500-700 μm were compared with Embosphere microspheres of a similar diameter in two groups of five sheep each. One sheep was embolized only with non-ionic iodinated contrast solution and saline (SF0.9%). The evaluation was based on histopathological examination of the uterus, performed 7 days after embolization. Necrosis scores, the diameter of occluded arteries, and the number of particles were assessed. ANOVA test and Student's t-test were used to determine the differences between the study groups.ResultsThe mean volume of embolic agents was 18.35 mL in the Embosphere group and 19.1 mL in the Embosoft group, with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.62). No significant difference was observed between the corresponding sides in the two groups. In addition, there were no significant differences in the thickness of the surface epithelium (Embosphere 21.26 μm vs. 19.72 μm Embosoft; P = 0.56) and glandular area between the groups (Embosphere 12.20% vs. 17.77% Embosoft; P = 0.18).ConclusionEmbosoft micropheres were associated with a greater inflammatory response and a smaller area of degeneration compared to Embosphere microspheres.