[Transarterial chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma].

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Interventional Radiology
• Hepatology

Context:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent cancer, often diagnosed in patients with cirrhosis.
• Curative surgical options are limited to 15-20% of HCC cases.
• Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) serves as a key palliative treatment for unresectable HCC and for downstaging tumors before transplantation.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the outcomes of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Summary:

• A total of 28 TACE procedures were performed on 20 HCC patients between 2004-2008.
• The TACE procedure involved super selective catheterization via the femoral artery, utilizing Doxorubicin with Lipiodol as embolic material.
• Post-embolization syndrome occurred in 33% of cases, but no major complications were observed. One-, two-, and three-year survival rates were 53%, 40%, and 20%, respectively.

Impact:

• TACE demonstrates safety and efficacy in extending survival for patients with unresectable HCC.
• The findings underscore the importance of specialized cancer centers and multidisciplinary collaboration for optimal HCC management.
• This study contributes to the understanding of TACE as a valuable therapeutic option in the palliative care of HCC.