A dual-lumen microcatheter for minimizing particle reflux during embolization: Proof-of-concept with multiphysics simulations.

Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is a widely used therapy for treating tumors and vascular abnormalities. A major limitation is the reflux of embolic particles, which can damage healthy tissue and reduce treatment efficacy. Despite technological advances, optimizing particle delivery while minimizing reflux remains a significant challenge. In this work, a novel dual-lumen catheter embolization strategy is proposed. A four-way coupled and multiphase computational fluid dynamics and Lagrangian particle tracking framework in OpenFOAM is used to investigate particle transport and embolization dynamics in idealized hepatic artery geometries. Multiple catheter configurations were evaluated under pulsatile blood flow: the Standard End-Hole Microcatheter (SEHM), catheters with one and three sets of side holes, and a dual-lumen design. An equivalent electrical circuit model was implemented to represent embolization-induced resistance, enabling outlet-specific flow redistribution with progressive occlusion. Results highlight the hemodynamic interactions between blood and saline during embolization and demonstrate that reflux primarily occurs in later stages, as target vessel occlusion intensifies. Side holes on the catheter improve delivery only when injection flow rates are increased to offset leakage, whereas the dual-lumen design enhances delivery efficiency at lower flow rates. This study demonstrates the utility of advanced computational models to assist in the design of microcatheters to minimize or eliminate particle reflux and off-target embolization.