Radioembolization

Radioembolization is a type of non-invasive radiation therapy for liver metastases from nearby tumors in the colon or elsewhere. Radioembolization is only an option when surgery, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and/or systemic chemotherapy are no longer an option.

Radioactive seeds

The treatment is proven to be effective. Small seeds filled with a radioactive substance are placed inside the blood vessels that feed the tumor. There, they can deliver a high dose of radiation inside the body, destroying the tumor cells.

Radioembolization - how does it work?

Your interventional radiologist will insert a catheter in the hepatic artery and administer small radioactive seeds which will spread through the bloodstream feeding and surrounding the tumor, where they deliver their radiation. We will do an elaborate screening before the treatment and close off circulation of all blood vessels that do not lead to the liver. We use a radioactive agent to ensure that the radioactive seeds won’t be absorbed by other parts of the body.

One week later

One week later, we will perform the radioembolization procedure. Beforehand, your specialists will meet with their multidisciplinary team consisting of a surgeon, gastroenterologist, nuclear health professional, and oncologist.

After your treatment

You will spend the night at the hospital. Depending on how you’re feeling, you can go back home the next day.

Follow-up consultation

We will invite you for a follow-up consultation one month after the procedure, and again after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.