Ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate as an embolic agent for cranial arteriovenous malformations. An experimental study.

Physical properties of ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate (Aron Alpha) were studied in comparison with isobutyl 2-cyanoacrylate (IBCA). Aron Alpha is characterized by high viscosity, a short polymerization time, low spreadability and low fragmentability. On the other hand, IBCA had low viscosity, a relatively long polymerization time, high spreadability and high fragmentability. Based on these findings, it is suggested that IBCA is suitable for transcatheter embolization, and Aron Alpha for intraoperative embolization. Mixture of IBCA with 5% Aron Alpha suppressed the spreadability and the fragmentability of IBCA, resulting in reduction of distal migration of IBCA into the venous system.