Role of Transarterial Radioembolization in Management of HCC

Abstract

Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE) is an emerging therapy for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Radioactive Y90 can be loaded onto glass or resin microparticles for intra-arterial selective internal radiation therapy. TARE is a multistage procedure requiring a mapping procedure and a treatment procedure. The mapping procedure informs operators on vascular anatomy as well as potential arteriovenous shunting. Based on the device desired, goal of treatment, vascularity of the tumor and shunting, dosage can be computed for treatment day. Overall, TARE is generally a well-tolerated procedure with promising clinical outcomes with HCC for the purposes of curative therapy, downstaging, and palliation.