Transarterial Chemoembolization: A Consistent and Continuously Evolving Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Hepatobiliary Oncology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been a standard treatment for unresectable intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) since 1977.
• Conventional TACE (c-TACE) involves chemoemulsion and embolization, while drug-eluting bead (DEB) TACE emerged in the 2000s, offering improved outcomes, particularly for larger tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge and advances in TACE for hepatocellular carcinoma.
• To emphasize the importance of TACE, technical aspects, and recent technological innovations.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and clinical practices regarding TACE for HCC.
• Discussion of conventional TACE (c-TACE) and drug-eluting bead (DEB) TACE techniques.
• Highlighting advancements in TACE technology, catheters, and embolization particles.

Main Results:

• TACE remains a crucial treatment modality for intermediate-stage HCC.
• DEB-TACE has demonstrated better outcomes compared to c-TACE, especially for larger tumors.
• Ongoing advancements in TACE technology enhance safety and efficacy.

Conclusions:

• TACE, in its various forms, continues to be an integral part of HCC treatment strategies.
• Technological progress in TACE contributes to improved patient outcomes.
• TACE will remain a valuable option, used alone or in combination with other therapies for HCC.