A cationic polymer, Eudragit-E, as a new liquid embolic material for arteriovenous malformations.

We have developed a new liquid material for embolisation of arteriovenous malformations: a mixture of methyl and butyl methacrylate, plus dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer (Eudragit-E) in a solvent consisting of ethanol and iopamidol. Upon contact with aqueous substances, Eudragit-E precipitates rapidly and forms a soft elastic sponge within 3 s, as the ethanol diffuses. In blood, the positively charged Eudragit-E aggregates the negatively charged blood elements. Transcatheter embolisation of 4 canine and 52 rat renal arteries was feasible. Histological studies revealed no acute inflammatory reaction within 1 week, but mild to moderate reactions in the subacute and chronic stages. No recanalisation was seen. Because of its unique properties and excellent thrombogenicity the Eudragit-E, mixture seems a promising embolic material.