What it is
This is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure. These treatments deliver therapy directly to liver tumors through the arteries that feed them, while limiting the effect on the rest of the body. In transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), chemotherapy medicine is delivered into the tumor's artery along with particles that slow or block blood flow. In Y-90 radioembolization, tiny beads containing the radioactive isotope yttrium-90 are delivered to the tumor to give it a targeted dose of radiation.
Who may be a candidate
This procedure may help:
- People with primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) or some cancers that have spread to the liver, as recommended by their cancer care team
- People who are not candidates for, or are waiting for, other liver treatments
Whether it fits you is decided after a review of your history, exam and imaging.
How it works
Treatment is planned with your oncology team and imaging. A thin catheter is placed in an artery at the wrist or groin and guided with X-ray imaging to the branch of the liver artery that supplies the tumor. Y-90 usually involves a separate mapping session before the treatment session.
Why choose this option
- Done through a thin catheter, with no large incision
- Guided by live X-ray imaging
- Outpatient care, and most people go home the same day
- Performed by Dr. Gibbens, board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine
Recovery
Fatigue, low-grade fever, nausea or abdominal discomfort for several days is common. Both TACE and Y-90 are performed at Bey Lea ASC. Most patients go home the same day, and your care team will tell you ahead of time if an overnight stay elsewhere is needed. Follow-up imaging checks the tumor's response.
Who performs the procedure
Interventional radiologist, board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. Dr. Gibbens performs the embolization and other interventional radiology procedures listed on this site, at Bey Lea ASC (54 Bey Lea Road, Building 2, Toms River). Your evaluation and follow-up take place at any of our 7 GSMC offices.
Patient handout
Frequently asked questions
Is this procedure surgery?
No. It is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure done through a thin tube (catheter) placed in a blood vessel at the wrist or groin. There is no large incision.
Who performs it?
Douglas Gibbens, MD, an interventional radiologist board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, performs this procedure at Bey Lea ASC in Toms River.
Will I go home the same day?
Most people go home the same day after a period of rest and monitoring. Plan to have an adult drive you home.
Is TACE or Y-90 done at Bey Lea ASC?
Yes. Both TACE and Y-90 are performed by Dr. Gibbens at Bey Lea ASC, and most patients go home the same day. Your cancer care team stays involved in your plan.
What about my medicines?
Our team reviews your medicines before the procedure. Do not stop a blood thinner unless the doctor who prescribes it approves.
Does insurance cover it?
Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis. Our team will check your plan and talk with you about costs before anything is scheduled.
How do I find out if I am a candidate?
Request a consultation or call 732-202-3000. Your evaluation includes a review of your history and imaging, and a talk about all of your options.
More interventional radiology procedures
Request a consultation
Talk with our team about whether liver tumor treatment may fit your goals. This page is general education and is not medical advice.