[Embolization of the hepatic artery in diffuse malignant tumors of the liver]

The paper presented the results of therapeutic embolization of the hepatic artery (EHA) in 20 patients with malignant tumors that involved more than 70% of the liver. Simultaneous occlusion of all the arteries running to the tumor caused a severe hepatic failure and the death of 2 out of 4 patients. The blood flow reduction in 4 patients appeared to be safe but effective partially. Successive lobular EHA resulted in the improvement of the condition in 3 patients and failed in 2 cases. Two-staged EHA (first reduction and then occlusion) turned to be safe and in 6 out of 7 patients had led to significant improvement. Advantages and faults of the embolization technique considered are discussed.