Temporary vascular occlusion with poloxamer 407

There is a need for safe and reversible occlusions during percutaneous endovascular procedures. Poloxamer 407 is a non-ionic surfactant with rapid reversible sol–gel transition behaviour. The safety and efficacy of this polymer as a temporary embolic agent was investigated. First, dissolution time after gelation of poloxamer was determined in an in vitro model. Then, transient poloxamer occlusion of renal and pulmonary arteries of seven dogs was followed by serial angiograms. Macroscopic and pathological changes were studied 1 week later. This experiment was repeated in similar arteries in one pig, and in auricular arteries of two rabbits. Poloxamer dissolution after in vitro polymerization was completed within 1–20 h, depending on concentrations. In vivo poloxamer 22% injections led to complete occlusion, followed by full recanalization within 10–90 min without complication. The only biochemical effect of poloxamer occlusions was transient elevation of triglyceride levels. There were no pathological abnormalities at 1 week. Poloxamer 407 could be used as an embolic material for temporary occlusions.