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Interventional Treatment Method for Liver Cancer: Transarterial Chemoembolization (TAKE)

  • Introduction

    In cancer treatment, especially in liver cancers, many innovative approaches have been developed in recent years. One of these methods is known as Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE). Chemoembolization is an effective interventional treatment method used for treating tumors in the liver. It has been applied globally for over 25 years and has been scientifically proven to provide higher effectiveness than chemotherapy.

    What is TACE?

    Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) is a treatment procedure performed using angiography. TACE is a treatment method applied to tumors in the liver, during which the blood vessels supplying the tumor are blocked, allowing for direct delivery of chemotherapy drugs to the tumor. This enhances the drug’s effectiveness and cuts off the tumor's blood supply.

  • Procedure Mechanism

    The TACE procedure consists of the following steps:

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

    Imaging: The blood vessels of the liver and the vessels supplying the tumor are visualized using an angiography device. During this stage, the vessels feeding the tumor are examined in detail.



    1. Medication and Embolization: Chemotherapy medication impregnated with particles is delivered to the blood vessel feeding the tumor. The particles directly reach the tumor tissue and remain within the tumor for 2-3 days, slowly releasing the medication during this time.

      Recovery Process: After the procedure, the patient typically rests for 4-6 hours. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for one day after the procedure. Side effects such as pain, nausea, and vomiting are usually managed with medications.

      Advantages of TACE

      High Effectiveness: TACE delivers the drugs directly to the tumor. This method minimizes the systemic side effects of chemotherapy. As a result, the drug’s effect on the tumor is enhanced.

      Targeted Treatment: Blocking the vessels feeding the tumor cuts off its blood supply, halting its growth. This allows the drug to stay within the tumor for an extended period.

      Side Effects: Compared to chemotherapy, side effects are generally fewer. The effect of the drug on other organs in the body is minimized.

      Survival Rate: Scientific studies show that TACE can extend the survival of patients and improve their quality of life.


  • Disadvantages

    Limited Applicability: Currently, TACE can only be applied to certain types of liver tumors. It is primarily used for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other cancers that have metastasized to the liver.

    Hospital Stay Duration: After the procedure, patients generally need to stay in the hospital for one day. This can affect the patient's lifestyle and lead to additional hospital costs.

    Effectiveness

    TACE is typically applied to intermediate-stage liver tumors. For early-stage tumors, more effective treatment methods (such as surgery or radiofrequency/microwave treatments) are preferred. TACE can shrink tumors in most patients or contribute to their complete disappearance. After the procedure, patients' quality of life may improve, and their life expectancy can be extended.

  • Repeatability

    The TACE procedure can be repeated if necessary. After the initial treatment, the tumor's size, extent, and response to treatment are assessed. Typically, an average of two chemoembolization treatments are performed on a patient, but some patients may receive more treatments.

    Side Effects

    The side effects of the TACE procedure are usually short-term and manageable. After the procedure, patients may experience pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, or vomiting for 1-2 days. These symptoms are treated with medications. Serious complaints are generally rare in most patients.

    Follow-up

    Follow-up after the procedure is crucial to evaluate the treatment's effectiveness and monitor potential side effects:

    Initial Check-up: One month after the procedure, an assessment of the liver and blood tests are conducted.

    Imaging: 1-2 months after the procedure, the tumor response is evaluated through imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography (CT), MRI, or PET-CT. Follow-up continues at regular intervals.

    Conclusion

    Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) provides an effective option for the treatment of liver cancer. By reducing the side effects of chemotherapy, it allows for direct treatment of the tumors. The procedure is typically used for intermediate-stage tumors and can improve quality of life and extend survival. The suitability of the treatment for each patient should be carefully evaluated, and the treatment process should be coordinated with the medical oncology department. TACE may play a broader role in cancer treatment in the future and could become even more effective with advanced techniques.

    This information is supported by verified medical knowledge from specialist doctor İbadat Hasanov and is intended to inform individuals. In each case, the treatment plan is tailored to the individual, and this decision is made after careful consideration by your doctors.

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