Transcatheter arterial embolization is an interesting technique; its usefulness in urology has not yet been well assessed. The properties and characteristics of some embolic materials among the more commonly used were investigated by means of a new experimental model, i.e., transcatheter embolization of rat kidney. Autologous clots and Oxycel were found to give a transient embolization, whereas Gelfoam, barium, and cyanoacrylates did not allow recanalization or revascularization. Only barium was found in venous vessels. The findings are discussed in view of the clinical application of the embolic materials considered.
