Modified Highly Elastic 3D Nanofiber Embolic Scaffolds for Precise In Situ Embolization Therapy

Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is an effective treatment for hemangiomas or highly vascular tumors. However, conventional embolic agents have limitations such as off-target embolization, regurgitation, and embolic migration, which can affect the efficacy and safety of embolic therapy. The study designed a highly elastic modified embolic scaffold constructed with Polycaprolactone/Gelatin (PCL/GEL) nanofibers to achieve precise in situ embolization in vivo. The embolic scaffolds can be extruded to a small size for smooth intervention in the vessel and rapidly regain their volume when reaching the target area. The results of the in vitro study indicate that the embolic scaffolds modified with lysine and PEI exhibit good biocompatibility and functionality. Furthermore, the in vivo rabbit ear embolization test demonstrated that the modified embolic scaffolds fit closely to the vessels and induced a significant amount of neo tissue deposition in the embolized area. The embolization process using the modified embolic scaffolds is safe and stable and results in more desirable embolization outcomes compared to commercial gelatin embolic agents. In conclusion, the modified highly elastic embolic scaffolds designed in this study offer a novel method for in situ embolization that has potential for clinical application in TAE.