Side effects of yttrium-90 radioembolization

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Oncology
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Hepatic malignancies have limited treatment options.
• Image-guided targeted therapies, including radioembolization, are crucial for managing liver tumors.
• Radioembolization with yttrium-90 ((90)Y) microspheres offers a safe and effective therapeutic approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of side effects associated with (90)Y microsphere radioembolization.
• To differentiate between general transarterial procedure side effects and those specific to radioembolization.
• To discuss strategies for mitigating the incidence of these side effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on radioembolization for hepatic malignancies.
• Analysis of reported side effects, categorizing them by procedure type.
• Identification of preventative and management strategies for radioembolization-induced side effects.

Main Results:

• Radioembolization's tumoricidal effect is primarily from radioactivity, not ischemia.
• Identified side effects include those common to transarterial procedures and unique radioembolization complications.
• Various methods exist to decrease the incidence of potential side effects.

Conclusions:

• Radioembolization with (90)Y microspheres is a valuable treatment for hepatic malignancies.
• Understanding and managing side effects is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
• Proactive strategies can minimize risks associated with this therapy.