Hepatic radioembolization complicated by radiation cholecystitis

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Hepatobiliary Oncology
• Radiation Medicine

Background:

• Biliary complications are infrequent after yttrium-90 ((90)Y) radioembolization.
• Radiation-induced cholecystitis is a rare subset, occurring in <1% of patients.
• This complication can necessitate cholecystectomy, posing risks for poor surgical candidates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the clinical, radiographic, and pathologic features of radiation cholecystitis.
• To highlight the outcome of a patient experiencing this adverse event post-(90)Y radioembolization.
• To emphasize the importance of preventing non-target embolization.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing a patient with radiation cholecystitis following (90)Y radioembolization.
• Review of clinical presentation, imaging findings, and pathological results.
• Discussion of treatment implications and preventative strategies.

Main Results:

• Radiation cholecystitis resulted from non-target embolization of radioactive microspheres.
• The complication carries significant implications, potentially requiring surgery.
• Meticulous procedural technique is crucial for prevention.

Conclusions:

• Radiation cholecystitis is an avoidable complication of (90)Y radioembolization.
• Preventative measures focusing on anatomy and catheter placement are essential.
• Early recognition and management are critical for patient outcomes.