Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump Therapy in Unresectable and Resectable Liver Tumors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Hepatobiliary Medicine
• Cancer Treatment

Background:

• Hepatic artery infusion (HAI) chemotherapy is a targeted intra-arterial treatment for liver malignancies.
• It leverages the liver tumors' primary blood supply via hepatic arteries.
• This method enhances drug delivery while reducing systemic side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the principles and applications of HAI chemotherapy.
• To highlight its expanding role in treating various hepatic malignancies.
• To emphasize its use in unresectable liver cancer cases.

Main Methods:

• Delivery of high-dose floxuridine directly into the hepatic artery.
• Utilizing the liver's first-pass extraction mechanism to concentrate chemotherapy.
• Application in patients with colorectal liver metastases, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Main Results:

• High drug concentration achieved directly within liver tumors.
• Reduced systemic toxicity compared to conventional chemotherapy.
• Effective regional treatment for unresectable hepatic malignancies.

Conclusions:

• HAI chemotherapy offers a potent strategy for treating liver cancers.
• Its application is broadening beyond colorectal metastases to other primary liver tumors.
• It is a key option for managing unresectable hepatic malignancies.