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Advanced Treatment Method of Liver Tumors:Radioembolization

  • Introduction

    In cancer treatment, especially in liver cancers, various innovative methods have been developed in recent years. One of these methods is radioembolization. Radioembolization is an effective and targeted interventional treatment method primarily used for treating liver tumors.

    What is Radioembolization?

    Radioembolization is a treatment method applied to liver tumors, based on the injection of micro-particles containing radioactive substances into the blood vessels that supply the tumor. This method directly targets and treats the tumor with radioactive radiation. Radioembolization is commonly used in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other cancers that have metastasized to the liver.

  • Procedure Mechanism

    The radioembolization procedure consists of the following steps:

    Preparation and Angiography: The patient is admitted to the hospital and provided with information beforehand. Pain relief and relaxing medications are administered via the arm vein to manage pain during the procedure. The procedure typically begins with a thin catheter inserted through the femoral vein.

    Imaging: The blood vessels of the liver and the vessels supplying the tumor are visualized in detail using an angiography device. At this stage, the vessels feeding the tumor are identified, and the necessary planning for the procedure is done.

    Injection of Radioactive Particles: The key step of radioembolization involves injecting micro-particles containing radioactive substances into the blood vessels that feed the tumor. These particles reach the tumor tissue, emit radioactive radiation, and directly target the tumor.

    Recovery Process: After the procedure, the patient typically rests in bed for a few hours. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for one day after the procedure. Side effects are generally managed with medications.


  • Advantages of Radioembolization

    Targeted Treatment: Radioembolization delivers radioactive particles directly to the blood vessels that feed the tumor. This allows the radioactive radiation to target the tumor without damaging surrounding tissues.

    Effective Radiation Therapy: The radioactive particles provide a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor tissue. This can stop tumor growth or reduce its size.

    Reduction of Side Effects: Radioembolization minimizes the impact on other organs during tumor treatment, thus reducing side effects. This improves the patient's quality of life.

    Repeatability: Radioembolization can be repeated if necessary. Depending on the tumor's size and spread, the treatment process can be personalized.

    Disadvantages

    Limited Applicability: Radioembolization is typically used only for liver tumors. It may not be suitable for every patient and might not be effective depending on the specific characteristics of the tumor.

    Post-Procedure Side Effects: Some patients may experience side effects such as pain, nausea, and fatigue after the procedure. However, these effects are usually temporary and can be managed with medications.

    Effectiveness

    Radioembolization is generally considered an effective option for treating liver tumors. It is especially used in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other cancers that have metastasized to the liver. The effectiveness of radioembolization may vary depending on the tumor's response, size, and spread.

    Tumor Response: After the procedure, some patients may experience complete tumor disappearance or shrinkage. Additionally, the patient's quality of life may improve after treatment.

    Survival Rate: Research on the impact of radioembolization on survival has shown that it may extend the survival of some patients.

    Repeatability

    The radioembolization procedure can be repeated after the initial treatment if necessary. The tumor’s size, spread, and response to the first treatment are evaluated. Typically, a patient may undergo two or three radioembolization treatments.

    Side Effects

    The side effects of the radioembolization procedure are generally mild and manageable:

    Pain: Post-procedure pain may occur in the upper right abdomen. This can be controlled with pain relief medications.

    Nausea and Vomiting: Some patients may experience nausea or vomiting after the procedure. These effects are usually temporary and can be treated with medications.

    General Fatigue: Patients may feel generally fatigued after the procedure, but this is also typically short-lived.

    Follow-up

    Regular follow-up after radioembolization is important:

    Initial Check-up: One month after the procedure, the liver will be evaluated, and blood tests will be performed.

    Imaging: Within 1-2 months after the procedure, imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography (CT), MRI, or PET-CT will be used to assess the tumor’s response.

    Regular Follow-ups: Follow-ups are conducted at regular intervals to monitor the patient’s response to treatment and assess any potential side effects.

    Conclusion

    Radioembolization is an effective interventional treatment option for liver cancer. By injecting radioactive particles into the blood vessels feeding the tumor, this method provides targeted treatment without harming surrounding tissues. The procedure is typically well-tolerated, and side effects are usually mild and temporary. Radioembolization will continue to play an important role in cancer treatment in the future and may be combined with existing methods for broader applications.

    This information is supported by verified medical knowledge from specialist doctor İbadat Hasanov and aims to inform individuals. In each case, the treatment plan is tailored to the individual, and this decision is carefully evaluated by your doctors.

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