[Chemoembolization in primary liver cell carcinoma. Results of a prospective study]

A remarkable progress was made in the palliative treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma using transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TAC). The combination of doxorubicin as cytotoxic drug and of Lipiodol as carrier, which is selectively accumulated within the tumors is an effective treatment. Prolonged survival has been demonstrated in several clinical studies. In a prospective trial the effect of regional TAC with temporary ischemia of the liver was evaluated concerning liver function, systemic reactions and tumor response. Temporary ischemia of the liver was well tolerated even in patients with liver cirrhosis. Revascularization of the liver after TAC was observed in all cases. Systemic side effects of the cytotoxic drug were mild. In patients with Child C cirrhosis or tumor volume of more than 60% of the liver no impact of the treatment on the survival time was observed. In the entire patient group a survival rate of 70% after 15 months was achieved.