Interventional Oncology

If you have primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma or cholangiocarcinoma) or liver cancer that has metastasized to the liver from other sites (colon, breast, melanoma, thyroid etc.) liver directed therapy utilizing tiny beads carrying radiation or chemotherapy may be an option for you. Our interventional oncology team works very closely with your oncologist to insure you receive the best treatment for your particular type of cancer. 

We currently use two image guided minimally invasive treatment options for liver cancer.  These are called radioembolization and chemoembolization. Both technologies rely on the unique blood supply to the liver. The liver is primarily supplied by the portal vein, whereas liver tumor its supplied by the arteries. Using a small tube that is introduced into your blood vessels, beads carrying either radiation or chemotherapy are delivered directly into tumor feeding arteries minimizing toxicity to the rest of your body. These therapies are palliative and used to treat liver cancer that can not be surgically excised or that are progressing on standard of care chemotherapy.

Radioembolization

Radioembolization is a minimally invasive treatment procedure for the treatment of primary liver cancer and liver metastases from other sites. Tiny microspheres containing radiation are delivered directly into tumor feeding arteries relatively sparing the normal liver tissue. These microspheres become lodged into the smaller vessels intimately associated with the tumors. Once embedded, these particles emit beta radiation to the tumor. This permits high doses of radiation necessary to kill tumor. It has been shown in numerous scientific studies to help prolong your life with minimal toxicities. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis meaning that you are discharged 4-6 hours following treatment.

Chemoembolization

Chemoembolization is a minimally invasive treatment procedure for the treatment of primary liver cancer and liver metastases from other sites. Tiny microspheres containing chemotherapy are delivered directly into tumor feeding arteries relatively sparing the normal liver tissue. These microspheres become lodged into the smaller vessels intimately associated with the tumors. Once embedded, these particles release chemotherapy to the tumor. This permits high doses of chemotherapy directly to the cancer. This treatment has been shown in numerous scientific studies to help prolong your life with minimal toxicities. Depending on the extent of tumor treated, you may be required to stay overnight for observation and pain management.