No abstract

the ST group (n¼45, mean age 75.9, mean CCI 4.3, mean PGV 162mL), in whom mean number of collaterals coiled was 0.56, mean contrast used 150mL, and mean number of particle vials used was 0.72 (P¼NS for all). The only significantly different procedural parameters were mean fluoroscopy time (37.3 min for SN and 50.0 min for ST, P<0.001) and mean particle density achieved (SN¼0.46 vials/100mL gland volume and ST¼0.53 vials/100mL gland volume, P<0.001). Conclusions: Use of the Sniper® balloon-occlusion microcatheter in PAE was associated with lower fluoroscopy times, possibly from its anti-reflux mechanism safely allowing faster injection of particles. However, particle deposition was not enhanced by the Sniper®, nor did it decrease contrast use or protective coiling. Importantly, several cases in this series likely could not have been done safely without its anti-reflux mechanism. Gland necrosis and clinical improvement with Sniper® await further study.