Chemoembolisatie

Chemoembolisatie is a medical procedure used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly liver tumors. It combines chemotherapy with embolization, a technique to block blood flow. The process involves delivering chemotherapy drugs directly to the tumor site. A radiologist or interventional oncologist inserts a catheter, usually through an artery in the groin, and guides it to the blood vessels supplying the tumor. Once the catheter is in place, tiny particles are injected to block these blood vessels. This deprives the tumor of oxygen and nutrients, causing it to shrink or die. Simultaneously, chemotherapy drugs are infused through the catheter directly into the tumor. This concentrated delivery maximizes the drug's effect on the cancer cells while minimizing its exposure to the rest of the body, thereby reducing systemic side effects. Chemoembolisatie is typically performed for primary liver cancers like hepatocellular carcinoma or for metastatic liver tumors that have spread from elsewhere. It is an option when surgery is not feasible or as a bridge to transplantation. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including pain, fever, and nausea. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a week. It is often used in conjunction with other cancer treatments.