lipiodolassisted

Lipiodol-assisted refers to interventional radiology techniques that use Lipiodol, an iodinated poppyseed oil, as a carrier and radiopaque agent to aid targeted intra-arterial therapy, most notably in liver tumors. The term often describes lipiodol-based approaches within transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) protocols, where Lipiodol is combined with chemotherapeutic drugs to form an emulsion that is delivered into the hepatic artery.

Mechanistically, Lipiodol serves multiple roles. Its radiopacity allows visualization of the treatment distribution under fluoroscopy. Its oil-based composition leads to selective retention within tumor tissue, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma, by virtue of the tumor’s arterial blood supply and unique microenvironment. When mixed with chemotherapy, Lipiodol acts as a depot, prolonging local drug exposure, and may contribute to embolic effects that reduce tumor perfusion.

Indications commonly include unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma and certain hepatic metastases, where Lipiodol-assisted methods are used to deliver chemotherapy directly to tumors, sometimes as a bridge to transplant or as palliation. The technique is typically performed as a selective or superselective catheterization of hepatic artery branches, followed by infusion of a Lipiodol-chemotherapy emulsion, and often additional embolic material to enhance ischemia. Real-time imaging guides treatment planning and assessment of distribution.

Safety considerations include the risk of post-embolization syndrome (pain, fever, nausea), liver function impairment, and potential non-target embolization. Rare complications can include pulmonary oil embolism or infection. Outcomes depend on tumor type, extent, and patient factors, with Lipiodol-assisted TACE being one option within multidisciplinary liver cancer management.