Cancer Institute

Yttrium-90 Radioembolization

Radioembolization is a relatively new therapy which is performed in a manner very similar to chemoembolization. This treatment is frequently used in patients with multiple liver tumors.

A type of doctor called an Interventional Radiologist inserts a catheter into a blood vessel in the groin. The catheter is then advanced under X-Ray guidance up to the blood vessels that supply the liver. From there, thousands of tiny radioactive beads are injected into the liver. The procedure is sometimes done on two separate visits- once to the left side of the liver and once to the right side of the liver. Prior to initiating this therapy, the Interventional Radiologist will also perform a mapping angiogram to obtain a view of the blood vessels in and around the liver.

Once inside the liver, these beads emit radiation into the surrounding tissues. Radiation is an established method of cancer treatment which has the potential to stunt the growth of, or even shrink, malignant tumors. Each patient's tumors will respond differently. Some shrink, some are held at a stable size, and some progress despite this therapy.

Radioembolization is not right for every patient. For example, patients with poor liver function or cancer outside of the liver might not be candidates for this procedure.

Consult your local oncologist or contact our office at 412.359.6738 or 866.680.0004 to determine whether this therapy may be right for you.