Radioembolization Y-92 Alamogordo
The Institute in Alamogordo has recently begun using a new treatment option for liver cancer patients – radioembolization with yttrium-90 microspheres (Y-92 microspheres). In this procedure, TARE or transarterial radioembolization, Y-92 microspheres are delivered via catheter to the tumor to deliver radiation directly to the tumor site. We talked to several surgeons and oncologists at the Institute about the benefits of this new procedure and how it compares with traditional treatment options.
What is radioembolization?
Radioembolization is a new treatment option for liver cancer patients. In this procedure, TARE or transarterial radioembolization, Y-92 microspheres are delivered to the diseased area of the liver using a catheter inserted into an artery in the groin. The microspheres emit radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors by blocking blood flow to the tumor site.
What is Y-92 Alamogordo ?
Yttrium-90 microspheres, also known as yttrium-90 (Y-90) microspheres, are tiny spheres of radioactive material. They are about the size of human hair and can be injected into the liver to kill cancerous cells.
How is the procedure performed?
In this procedure, TARE or transarterial radioembolization, Y-92 microspheres are delivered to the liver through an artery in the groin. The patient receives a CT scan to see where the cancer is located and then doctors inject these particles into a blood vessel that feeds blood to the liver tumor. Once injected, the particles shrink and block the blood supply to the tumor.
What are the benefits of this new treatment option?
Radioembolization with yttrium-90 microspheres (Y-92 microspheres) is a new treatment option for liver cancer patients. The procedure is non-invasive and does not require major surgery, making it a more desirable option for patients.
Are there any risks associated with radioembolization?
The risks are minimal and do not outweigh the benefits. This procedure is less invasive than other treatment options, such as surgical resection, which requires a large incision and can lead to complications in recovery. With radioembolization, there is no need for a general anesthetic or surgery. Plus, the side effects from radiation are limited to skin redness and irritation in areas where the microspheres were injected.
Who is a candidate for this procedure?
Liver cancer patients who are not good candidates for surgery or chemotherapy are excellent candidates for this procedure. It is an outpatient procedure, so patients can return home the same day as their treatment. Most liver cancer patients experience a reduction in the size of their tumors and an improvement in liver function after one session of radioembolization.
What are the potential side effects of radioembolization?
In the first month after treatment of radioembolization, there is an increased risk of some side effects such as fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms usually go away on their own after a few days. Over time, your body will produce new blood cells to replace those that were destroyed by radiation therapy. Eventually, you will have less than normal levels of red and white blood cells in your bloodstream and this can lead to anemia.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
The first step is to have a CT scan of your abdomen and pelvis to determine where the liver tumor is located. To begin, you will be put under general anesthesia and a needle will be inserted through your femoral artery near your groin. The doctor will inject a small amount of radioactive material (called microspheres) in order to irradiate the liver tumor. After this, you will be taken into the CT scanning room and the procedure will take about 30 minutes.
What can I expect after the procedure?
In the transarterial radioembolization procedure, after the patient is anesthetized, a catheter is placed into a large vein in the groin and threaded to the hepatic artery that supplies blood to the liver. Once there, radioactive microspheres are injected through this catheter and into the liver. The radiation emitted by these microspheres destroys cancerous tissue that has grown along these arteries. The treatment process typically lasts about two hours but varies depending on your individual situation.
