Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 28, 2026
Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion PHP with Melphalan as a Treatment for Unresectable Metastases Confined to the Liver
Published on: July 31, 2016
Percutaneous Isolated Hepatic Perfusion for the Treatment of Unresectable Liver Malignancies
Mark C Burgmans1, Eleonora M de Leede2, Christian H Martini3
1Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Postal Zone C2-S, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands. m.c.burgmans@lumc.nl.
Abstract:
Liver malignancies are a major burden of disease worldwide. The long-term prognosis for patients with unresectable tumors remains poor, despite advances in systemic chemotherapy, targeted agents, and minimally invasive therapies such as ablation, chemoembolization, and radioembolization. Thus, the demand for new and better treatments for malignant liver tumors remains high. Surgical isolated hepatic perfusion (IHP) has been shown to be effective in patients with various hepatic malignancies, but is complex, associated with high complication rates and not repeatable. Percutaneous isolated liver perfusion (PHP) is a novel minimally invasive, repeatable, and safer alternative to IHP. PHP is rapidly gaining interest and the number of procedures performed in Europe now exceeds 200. This review discusses the indications, technique and patient management of PHP and provides an overview of the available data.
Insights
Percutaneous isolated liver perfusion (PHP) offers a safer, repeatable alternative to surgical isolated hepatic perfusion for liver malignancies. This minimally invasive approach shows promise for treating unresectable liver tumors.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Surgical Oncology
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Liver malignancies represent a significant global health burden with poor prognosis for unresectable tumors.
- Current treatments including chemotherapy and minimally invasive therapies have limitations.
- Surgical isolated hepatic perfusion (IHP) is effective but complex and carries high complication rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the indications, technique, patient management, and available data for percutaneous isolated liver perfusion (PHP).
- To highlight PHP as a novel, minimally invasive, and repeatable alternative to IHP for liver malignancies.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes current literature and clinical experience with PHP.
- Discussion includes procedural technique, patient selection, and post-procedural management.
- An overview of existing data on PHP efficacy and safety is provided.
Main Results:
- Percutaneous isolated liver perfusion (PHP) is emerging as a viable treatment option.
- PHP demonstrates potential as a safer and repeatable alternative to IHP.
- Over 200 PHP procedures have been performed in Europe, indicating growing adoption.
Conclusions:
- PHP is a promising novel therapy for unresectable liver malignancies.
- Its minimally invasive nature and repeatability offer advantages over traditional IHP.
- Further data collection and research are warranted to fully establish PHP's role in liver cancer treatment.
