This guide offers an educational, technical overview of embolization and the device technologies used in this field. Because embolization is generally intended to be permanent, careful vessel selection and sizing are emphasized so that only the intended territory is occluded. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Endovascular Embolization
Embolization is an endovascular technique in which an occluding material is delivered through a catheter to intentionally block blood flow in a target vessel, and it is used across a broad range of indications. Transarterial approaches also include transarterial radioembolization (TARE) and other targeted therapies delivered through dedicated microcatheters, always as determined by the treating interventional team. Common applications described in the literature include peripheral aneurysms, arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) and malformations (AVMs), gastrointestinal or intestinal bleeding, pelvic congestion, varicocele, and endoleaks after aortic repair.
Core Technologies and Options
Detachable and Pushable Coils. Embolization coils are fine metallic filaments that are deployed inside a vessel, where they form a dense mass that promotes thrombosis and mechanical occlusion. Detachable coils are held on a delivery wire until the operator confirms position and then releases them through a controlled mechanical detachment, which allows repositioning before commitment, while pushable coils are advanced directly. Vascular Plugs. A vascular plug is a self-contained occluding device, typically a nitinol framework, that is positioned across a target vessel to arrest flow, often in a single deployment. Fiber filling and covering materials can promote thrombosis, while radiopaque markers aid visualization and a detachable point allows controlled release. Liquid Embolic Agents. Liquid embolic agents are injectable materials that solidify within the vessel after delivery, allowing them to penetrate and cast complex networks such as arteriovenous malformations. Non-adhesive agents are designed to precipitate or set without bonding to the catheter tip, which can support more controlled delivery in certain lesions. Delivery Microcatheters and Catheters. Precise embolization depends on delivery catheters and microcatheters that can navigate tortuous vessels and position the occluding agent at the intended site. Catheter inner-diameter lumen and compatibility with the chosen coil, plug, or agent are practical factors the operator confirms before delivery. Coil Embolization of Aneurysms. In peripheral aneurysms, coils can be packed within the aneurysm sac or used to occlude a feeding vessel, promoting thrombosis and reducing flow into the aneurysm. Detachable designs are particularly useful here because they allow the operator to assess coil position before releasing each coil. Flow-Modulating Devices. Flow-modulating devices are stent-based constructs designed to alter blood flow through a segment rather than to pack a sac directly, and they are used in selected vascular applications. By reorganizing flow, such devices can be used adjunctively in aneurysm and peripheral vascular management as determined by the treating team.
Comparing the Approaches
Coils vs Vascular plug. Coils build an occlusion by packing multiple filaments into a vessel or sac, while a vascular plug is a single device deployed to span and close the target vessel. INVAMED offers both approaches: the Spider Peripheral Detachable Coil System and the fiber-filled MultiBEAM Embolization Plug, which per its product page is suitable for arteries from 2.6 to 6.2 mm. Liquid embolic vs Coils. Liquid embolic agents flow into and cast a vascular network, which can be advantageous for diffuse or complex lesions such as AVMs, whereas coils occlude at discrete points. INVAMED offers the Libro Non-Adhesive Embolization Agent for liquid applications and the Spider coil system for coil-based occlusion. Detachable coils vs Pushable coils. Detachable coils remain attached to a delivery wire until the operator confirms satisfactory position and then triggers a controlled release, allowing repositioning beforehand. INVAMED's Spider Peripheral Detachable Coil System provides both configurations within one family so the operator can match the approach to the situation.
INVAMED Portfolio in This Area
INVAMED's related devices include: Spider Peripheral Detachable Coil System, MultiBEAM Embolization Plug, Pars Detachable Embolization Catheter, MicroDELIVERY Embolization Catheter, Stena Multi-Layer Flow Modulator, Libro Non-Adhesive Embolization Agent. Detailed specifications for each are provided in the product documentation.
Key Considerations
- Manufacturer statements about INVAMED devices, including comparative claims on the MultiBEAM product page, reflect the company's positioning rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
- Because embolization is usually intended to be permanent, precise vessel selection and sizing are emphasized so that only the intended territory is occluded.
- Detachable designs allow the operator to confirm position before committing, which can be valuable near sensitive branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides which embolization device to use?
A trained interventionalist selects the agent and delivery system based on the target vessel and indication; this article is educational and not a treatment recommendation.
Is embolization permanent?
Embolization is generally intended to be permanent with coils, plugs, and solidifying liquids, though some particle agents are more temporary; the expected durability is discussed with the treating physician.
Does INVAMED make a liquid embolic agent?
Yes; the Libro Non-Adhesive Embolization Agent is cross-listed in INVAMED's embolization portfolio as a non-adhesive liquid agent, with delivery determined by the operator.
About INVAMED
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Related on INVAMED
- Embolization — product category
- Is embolization permanent?
- A Clinical Introduction to Liquid Embolic Agents
- Inside the MicroDELIVERY Embolization Catheter: Design and Applications
Important Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and technical information about medical device technologies. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation, and it does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Any decision about diagnosis or treatment should be made by a licensed clinician based on an individual assessment. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals in accordance with the applicable Instructions for Use (IFU) and local regulatory approvals. Product availability and indications vary by country.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.