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Physics, Techniques and Procedures

Gelfoam

absorbable sponge derived from gelatine used as an embolic agent in the vascular system. Gelfoam comes in sheets (which may be cut into particles of an appropriate size) or in powder form. It provokes clot formation and thrombosis which commonly propagates distal to the embolization. The duration of vascular occlusion averages 3 to 4 months, and recanalization usually follows. Gelfoam is commonly used for non-permanent occlusion for control of haemorrhage or in combination with a non-absorbable substance such as coils or tissue adhesive for complete permanent vascular occlusion. Gelfoam is also available as a powder with particle size ranging from 50 to 300 microns. These particles may obstruct arterioles and lead to tissue necrosis, and powdered Gelfoam is therefore usually restricted to palliative use (e.g. hepatic and renal cancers).

CLZ/HJS-04