Abstract 20487: Hydrogel-based X-ray-visible Microspheres Development for Bariatric Arterial Embolization to Treat Obesity

Introduction: Embolization particles are used to arrest blood flow in targeted arteries, commonly to mitigate bleeding or result in ischemic tumor death. Recently, embolization particles have been introduced for bariatric arterial embolization (BAE) in preclinical and clinical setting. The objective is to suppress orexigenic hormone production, leading to weight loss. However, most commercially particle embolics are variable in size and are radiolucent, making imaging-guided interventional procedures difficult to monitor. In this study, we present the development of a hydrogel-based, imaging-visible, uniform embolic bead using Lipiodol-impregnated alginate microencapsulation system. Methods: X-ray-visible embolic microspheres were made from 10% Lipiodol-impregnated alginate using either electrostatic droplet generator (large embolics) or custom-made microfluidic devices (small embolics). Size uniformity was examined microscopically. The stability of these microspheres was assessed over two weeks in normal...