Renal pathology after arterial yttrium-90 microsphere administration in pigs. A model for superselective radioembolization therapy.

RATIONALE AND

OBJECTIVES

To test the selectivity of tissue damage in radioembolization, the authors performed an experimental study using superselective administration of yttrium-90 particles to deliver up to 100 Gy to the porcine kidney. Patterns and severity of damage in test organs were compared with controls, and the feasibility of this model is discussed.

METHODS

Eight sows were included in the study. Bio-Rex 70 particles were applied via selective catheterization of the renal artery. Four pigs received inactive particles and four pigs received active particles. Organ distribution and shunting of yttrium-90 were determined, and kidney damage patterns were histologically analyzed.

RESULTS AND

CONCLUSIONS

The model demonstrates that yttrium-90-labeled resin particles can superselectively be applied. Retention of beta activity in the target organ was more than 95%. In addition to tissue shrinkage from mechanical obstruction, considerable damage ensued mainly by radiation-induced arterial necrosis and arteritis.