Trans Arterial Radio Embolization 

Trans Arterial Radio Embolization (TARE) is an advanced and minimally invasive interventional radiology procedure employed in the treatment of liver cancer and liver metastases. This innovative technique involves the targeted delivery of radioactive microspheres directly into the blood vessels that supply the tumor. By doing so, TARE restricts the blood flow to the cancerous cells, delivering a concentrated dose of radiation precisely to the affected area. This approach not only minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues but also enhances the effectiveness of the treatment.

TARE is particularly valuable for patients who may not be suitable candidates for surgery or other conventional treatments. As a result, it offers a promising alternative for individuals facing liver malignancies, contributing to improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life. This sophisticated procedure is often spearheaded by skilled Interventional Radiologists, leveraging their expertise to bring about targeted and impactful interventions in the realm of oncological care.

The treatment process comprises two phases: a pretreatment phase and the actual treatment phase.

In the initial stage, a pre-SIRT procedure, an exploratory/pretreatment step, will be conducted. Before this, a comprehensive examination will be conducted. Blood vessels not leading to the liver will be blocked. Using a local anesthetic, an interventional radiologist will administer a test dose of a radioactive tracer into the hepatic artery through a thin tube (catheter) inserted via the femoral vein. Subsequently, a scan at the nuclear health department will determine if the protein is exclusively absorbed in the liver.

Once this scan is complete, eligibility for treatment and the appropriate dosage can be determined. The interventional radiologist will provide further details, and in many cases, patients can return home by the end of the procedure day.

Moving on to the second phase, the SIRT treatment occurs approximately a week or two after the pretreatment. This phase follows a similar course as the pretreatment. The interventional radiologist administers radioactive beads through the hepatic vein toward the tumor.

These beads become lodged in the blood vessels surrounding and within the tumor, emitting radiation to destroy the tumor cells and shrink the tumor. Yttrium-90 (Y-90) or Holmium-166 (Ho-166) radioactive isotopes are commonly used. Since the radiation targets only the tumor, a higher radiation dose can be employed compared to other treatment methods, enhancing effectiveness.

It's important to note potential side effects from the treatment. Following the procedure, an overnight stay at the hospital is required. After the PET-CT scan, the interventional radiologist will discuss the treatment results with the patient.

Trans Arterial Radio Embolization (TARE) is primarily employed in the treatment of liver conditions, specifically targeting liver cancer and liver metastases. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who may no longer be viable candidates for surgery or other conventional treatments.

TARE is commonly used to address primary liver tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and metastatic liver lesions resulting from other cancers, including colorectal cancer. The procedure involves the precise delivery of radioactive microspheres into the blood vessels that supply the tumor, thereby restricting blood flow and delivering a concentrated dose of radiation to the affected area.

This targeted approach minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues while maximizing the therapeutic impact on the cancerous cells. TARE represents a valuable option for patients facing specific liver malignancies, offering an alternative avenue for treatment and contributing to improved outcomes in the realm of interventional oncology.

The primary complication encountered is post-embolization syndrome, affecting approximately 20 to 70% of patients. Symptoms encom pass fatigue, mild fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. While these symptoms typically peak in severity during the initial two weeks post-treatment, they may persist for up to a month.

Less frequently observed complications involve bruising, edema, hepatic impairment, and infection. In rare instances, individuals may exhibit an allergic reaction to the contrast agent. The iodine present in the contrast agent can, in extremely uncommon cases, lead to a kidney response.