Overview
Radioembolization is a way to cut off the blood supply to tumors and kill malignant cells. It involves using a catheter to place millions of microspheres - minute particles that emit radiation - into the blood vessels feeding the tumor. The tiny beads become trapped in the vessel, cutting off the blood supply to the tumor while emitting radiation that kills the tumor cells.
This outpatient procedure is effective in extending and improving the quality of life for people with primary and metastatic liver cancers (cancers that started in another organ and spread to the liver). It produces fewer side effects - mainly fatigue - compared to standard cancer treatments.
Benefits
Radioembolization is a way to cut off the blood supply to tumors and kill malignant cells. It involves using a catheter to place millions of microspheres – minute particles that emit radiation – into the blood vessels feeding the tumor. The tiny beads become trapped in the vessel, cutting off the blood supply to the tumor while emitting radiation that kills the tumor cells.
This outpatient procedure is effective in extending and improving the quality of life for people with primary and metastatic liver cancers (cancers that started in another organ and spread to the liver). It produces fewer side effects – mainly fatigue – compared to standard cancer treatments.
- It is an outpatient procedure – no hospitalization is required.
- It is a very safe procedure and may be repeated if necessary.
- Complication rates are low, about 2 to 3 percent, and are often minor.
- It is very effective in shrinking or killing small to medium-sized tumors.
- It can be combined with other treatments.
- This treatment is successful in reducing pain and suffering.
- It usually does not require general anesthesia.
