Tantalum-loaded polyurethane microspheres for particulate embolization: preparation and properties.

Polyurethane microspheres having diameters in the range 150-1500 microns were prepared by condensation polymerization of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) with poly(tetramethylene glycol) (PTMG) of average mol wt 990 in an aqueous dispersion medium containing dioctyl sulphosuccinate (DOS) as the suspension stabilizer and 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) as the catalyst for polymerization. Incorporation of tantalum powder in the polymerizing phase led to the formation of Ta-loaded microspheres with good radiopacity. Microspheres were surface-modified by grafting methacrylic acid (MA) on to them using gamma-radiation from a Co60 source. Conversion of the grafted MA into its sodium salt imparted hydrophilicity and slipperiness to the microspheres enabling them to pass through Teflon catheters without obstructing the catheter lumen. These microspheres may find application as radiopaque embolization agents.