Summary: LC Bead Microspheres are embolization devices used primarily for treating hepatocellular carcinoma. Key evidence includes a randomized trial comparing embolization with and without doxorubicin.
The LC Bead Microspheres by Biocompatibles UK were cleared via the FDA 510(k) pathway on April 16, 2010. They are classified as Class 2 devices under product code HCG.
What It Is
LC Bead Microspheres are compressible embolization devices designed to occlude blood vessels. They are primarily used in transarterial embolization procedures for treating liver tumors.
Clinical Applications
These microspheres are commonly used in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly in patients who are not candidates for surgical resection. They are employed in transarterial embolization to block blood supply to tumors.
Evidence Summary
The available literature includes four studies, with types ranging from randomized controlled trials to other observational designs. The studies span from 2016 to 2017, focusing on embolization techniques and outcomes.
Reported Outcomes
Published studies report that embolization using LC Bead Microspheres can effectively reduce tumor size in hepatocellular carcinoma. A randomized trial indicated no clear superiority of doxorubicin-eluting beads over non-drug-eluting beads in terms of overall survival.
Safety Profile
Reported complications include potential risks associated with embolization procedures, such as post-embolization syndrome and non-target embolization. No specific adverse events were detailed in the provided studies.
Evidence Limitations
The evidence is limited by the small number of studies and lack of long-term follow-up data. Further research is needed to clarify the comparative effectiveness of drug-eluting versus non-drug-eluting microspheres.
Linked Studies (4)
PubMed • 2017
Uterine fibroid embolization with acrylamido polyvinyl microspheres: prospective 12-month clinical and MRI follow-up study.
What are the clinical indications for LC Bead Microspheres?
LC Bead Microspheres are indicated for use in embolization procedures to treat hepatocellular carcinoma and other hypervascular tumors.
What outcomes have been reported in clinical studies?
Clinical studies have reported effective tumor size reduction with LC Bead Microspheres, though no significant survival advantage was found over drug-eluting beads.
What complications have been reported?
Safety data indicate risks such as post-embolization syndrome and non-target embolization, typical of embolization procedures.
Disclaimer: This page compiles publicly available regulatory and published clinical evidence for educational reference.
It does not constitute medical advice, product endorsement, or a recommendation for clinical use.
Always consult manufacturer documentation and clinical judgment for patient care decisions.
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