Chemoembolization
One way to stop/slow tumors in the liver is to find the blood vessels that supply the tumor and block it off from the inside with plastic beads and medications. First, using ultrasound and x-ray guidance, a small needle is used to enter the artery of the leg or wrist. Then, small catheters and wires are used to find the arteries that supply the liver and tumor. Finally, chemotherapy and plastic beads are slowly injected to block blood flow to the tumor and cause it to die.
The procedure has a low risk of bleeding, infection, and damage to nearby organs. Patients should refrain from eating and drinking for at least 6 hours prior to the procedure so that we may give them medications to help them relax (moderate sedation). We typically perform for the procedure for outpatients, who will then remain in the hospital overnight.
