Hepatic chemoembolization (TACE)

Background and indications

Chemoembolization is primarily offered for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer) or certain hepatic metastases when surgery or transplantation are not possible.

Benefits

By concentrating chemotherapy directly in the tumor and cutting off its blood supply, this treatment is more effective and better tolerated than standard intravenous chemotherapy. It can slow disease progression and sometimes significantly reduce tumor size.

Procedure

Under local anesthesia and sedation, a catheter is introduced through the femoral (groin) or radial (wrist) artery and guided to the hepatic arteries feeding the tumor. The radiologist then injects a mixture of chemotherapy and embolization particles. The procedure lasts approximately 1-2 hours.

Risks

Post-embolization syndrome is common in the following days: abdominal pain, nausea, mild fever and fatigue. Rarer complications include liver abscess, liver failure or gallbladder damage.

Recovery and follow-up

A 1-3 night hospital stay is typical. CT or MRI is performed 4-8 weeks later to assess tumor response. Multiple sessions may be needed, spaced 6-8 weeks apart.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).