Degradation of tungsten coils implanted into the subclavian artery of New Zealand white rabbits is not associated with local or systemic toxicity.

Objective: To assess whether corrosion of tungsten coils is related to residual shunting and to evaluate whether elevated tungsten serum levels are associated with local or systemic toxicity.

Methods: Tungsten coils (SPI, Balt, France) were implanted into the subclavian artery of New Zealand white rabbits leading to a residual high-flow shunt in 5/10 rabbits. Serial serum tungsten levels, complete blood count and clinical chemistry were analysed prior to the implantation as well as 15 min, 2 and 4 months thereafter.