Preoperative spinal tumor embolization: An institutional experience with Onyx

The efficacy and risks of preoperative embolization of spinal tumors

“…The majority of embolizations in our experience were carried out using Onyx 18 (n=29, 78.4%), a liquid embolic agent with a safety and efficacy that has been previously reported in the embolization of brain arteriovenous malformations, fistulas, and tumors 5 7 20–22. Important features of this material include a relatively slow precipitation that allows for prolonged controlled injections, leading to effective tumor bed penetration.…”

“…Additionally, Onyx is radio-opaque allowing for good intraoperative visibility. Furthermore, the post-embolized cast that forms remains pliable and easily handled intraoperatively 5 7…”

Minimizing bleeding complications in spinal tumor surgery with preoperative Onyx embolization via dual-lumen balloon catheter

“…The largest series in the literature has come from Ghobrial et al 9. They described their institutional experience with Onyx and other embolic materials.…”

“…Elhammady et al have reported the next largest series, nine cases 9. They stratified patients into two groups: those with intraparenchymal penetration of Onyx and those without.…”

Imaging diagnosis and the role of endovascular embolization treatment for vascular intraspinal tumors

“…37,38,70,87,99 One retrospective case review involving patients with hypervascular extradural spinal tumors undergoing off-label transarterial Onyx embolization reported some advantages. 36 Because of its diffusion properties, Onyx may occlude multiple arterial feeders in 1 injection. However, compared with NBCA, Onyx is less visible and offers a relatively higher risk of reflux that can cause in- jury to the radiculomedullary arteries.…”