Liver Cancer Treatment & Ongoing Care

Chemoembolization (TACE)

Chemoembolization is also known as TACE, standing for transarterial chemoembolization. In this technique an interventional radiologist injects a chemotherapeutic agent directly into the arteries supplying a tumor within the liver. Frequently lipiodol is also injected since lipiodol, which is actually poppyseed oil, will hold the chemical there within the injected artery for a longer time. Chemoembolization may be superior to bland embolization, which is the injection of agents to cause the artery to clot off, without adding chemotherapy drugs along with the clotting agents. Although we have no proof that TACE is better than plain (or bland) embolization alone, it is thought by many to be better. This treatment method is used more frequently in the patient with hepatocellular carcinoma than in the patient with metastasis from a cancer of the colon or rectum. A post-embolization syndrome does occur in many patients after TACE that makes them sick for several days post-procedure. TACE is a second line therapy that should only be considered after ablation or resection have been ruled out.

At present in Gainesville no interventional radiologists perform TACE for liver cancer treatment. In the appropriate instance, I discuss TACE with the patient and his or her family and then send the patient to one of three places, Emory, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, or MD Anderson Cancer Center. I have connections with an appropriate physician at each of these locations.

Contact my office to find out more about Chemoembolization (TACE) and other methods of liver cancer treatment.