[Indication for chemoembolization of liver tumors. An interdisciplinary concept and initial results]

We present a new concept after Schultheis which is based on the results of experimental studies on cell cultures. Local chemoembolization in liver tumours including liver metastases is usually performed via the angiographic route. Embolisation of the most peripheral branches of the hepatic artery prevents early formation of collateral vessels. The method also comprises the additional infusion of cytostatic agents via the portal vein. The procedure is usually repeated after an interval of about four weeks. In this paper we will describe our method in liver metastases and present the preliminary results obtained from 19 patients treated to date.