What is an embolic agent supplied in small sterile bricks or fine powder and is absorbed over 4-6 weeks?

The correct answer is Gelfoam, which is an embolic agent supplied in the form of small sterile bricks or fine powder. Gelfoam is a gelatin-based product that is often used in interventional procedures for hemostasis and to occlude blood vessels temporarily. Its composition allows for absorption by the body over a period of 4 to 6 weeks, making it ideal for procedures where a temporary occlusion is necessary.

During this time, Gelfoam promotes clot formation within the targeted vessel, providing a means to control bleeding or create an occlusion for therapeutic reasons. The gradual absorption of Gelfoam is beneficial as it allows for the potential recovery and re-perfusion of the vessel after the targeted therapeutic effect is achieved.

Other options, while also relevant in the context of embolic agents, do not share the same properties as Gelfoam. Autologous clot is derived from the patient’s own blood and is not supplied in bricks or powder form. Vascular plugs are mechanical devices aimed at occluding vessels but do not have the absorbable properties associated with Gelfoam. Polyvinyl alcohol is a synthetic material used in embolization but does not dissolve or absorb in the same manner, offering