Arterial Embolization for Tumor Treatment
Tumors are masses formed by uncontrolled cell growth and require a rich blood supply to sustain themselves. Embolization, a treatment that blocks the arteries feeding the tumor, stops its growth or reduces its size. Performed by interventional radiologists, these procedures provide a non-surgical and effective treatment option.
What Is Embolization?
Embolization is a procedure in which the arteries supplying a tumor are blocked using special materials. By cutting off blood flow to the tumor, its supply of oxygen and nutrients is halted, causing the tumor cells to shrink or die.
Which Tumors Can Be Treated with Embolization?
-
Liver Tumors: Used for primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and metastatic tumors that have spread to the liver.
-
Kidney Tumors: Especially applied to shrink the tumor before surgery.
-
Uterine Fibroids: Even if not cancerous, embolization can be used to reduce large and painful fibroids.
-
Bone Tumors: Utilized for pain management and tumor reduction.
Embolization Treatment with Interventional Radiology
-
Tumor Embolization (TAE – Transarterial Embolization)
-
How It Is Performed: A thin catheter is inserted through the groin and guided to the arteries that supply the tumor. Embolic agents (particles, microspheres, or adhesives) are then injected to block these vessels and stop the blood flow to the tumor.
-
Advantages: The procedure is performed through the groin without surgical incisions, resulting in a shorter recovery time.
-
Application Combined with Chemotherapy (TACE – Transarterial Chemoembolization)
-
How It Is Performed: Chemotherapy drugs are added to the embolic material and delivered directly into the tumor. This method destroys cancer cells more effectively while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
-
Advantages: Provides a stronger and more targeted treatment compared to systemic chemotherapy.
-
Embolization with Radioactive Microspheres (TARE – Transarterial Radioembolization)
-
How It Is Performed: Radioactive microspheres are injected into the arteries feeding the tumor. These spheres both block the vessels and destroy the tumor internally with radiation.
-
Advantages: Particularly effective for liver tumors and causes minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Why Embolization with Interventional Radiology?
-
Minimal Invasive: Applied through small needle punctures without large surgical incisions.
-
Less Pain and Faster Recovery: Patients can return to their normal life in a short period.
-
Targeted Treatment: Only the blood vessels feeding the tumor are blocked, preserving healthy tissue.
-
Can Be Combined with Other Treatments: It can be used alongside chemotherapy or radiotherapy, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.
Side Effects and Risks of Embolization
-
Temporary Pain and Fever: These may last for a few days after the procedure.
-
Nausea and Vomiting: Particularly common in liver embolization.
-
Infection Risk: Although rare, an infection may develop at the catheter site.
-
Post-embolization Syndrome: Symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, and mild fever may occur but typically resolve within a short period.
-
Off-target Embolization: Disruption of blood flow to unintended tissues.
When Should You See a Doctor?
-
Sudden and severe pain
High fever and chills
Bleeding or swelling at the catheter site -
These symptoms may be signs of complications. It's important to quickly consult your interventional radiology specialist.