Lipiodolbased

Lipiodol-based refers to formulations in which Lipiodol, an iodinated poppyseed oil, serves as the main vehicle or solvent. Lipiodol is oil-based and highly radiopaque, properties that enable visualization under fluoroscopy and CT. In clinical practice, Lipiodol-based emulsions are used as carriers for therapeutic agents and as contrast-enhancing media in interventional radiology.

The most common application is transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for liver tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma. In this approach, Lipiodol is emulsified with anticancer drugs (such as cisplatin, doxorubicin, or mitomycin C) and delivered via the hepatic artery. Lipiodol’s preferential retention in certain tumors helps achieve high local drug concentrations and contributes to embolization of tumor-feeding vessels. Beyond liver disease, Lipiodol-based formulations have been explored for targeted delivery and imaging in other vascular-driven cancers and procedures that benefit from radiopacity.

Preparation and properties vary by protocol, but Lipiodol is typically mixed to form oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions with the therapeutic agent. Its radiopacity allows immediate assessment of distribution during the procedure and subsequent imaging to evaluate treatment extent. Lipiodol can remain within tissues for days to weeks, facilitating prolonged local exposure while requiring follow-up imaging to monitor clearance.

Safety and limitations include potential post-embolization syndrome (fever, pain, liver enzyme changes), rare oil embolism, and hypersensitivity to iodinated compounds. Careful patient selection, imaging guidance, and experienced technique are essential. Lipiodol-based approaches continue to evolve with ongoing research into optimized formulations and applications.