[Update on chemoinfusion and chemoembolization treatments]

Abstract

In the last two decades image-guided interventional catheterizations and percutaneous ablative regional treatment procedures have revolutionized the therapy of nonresectable primary and secondary liver tumours. A distinction is made between chemoablative procedures and thermo- and radioablative procedures. The main chemoablative interventions are transarterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC; hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy) and transarterial (chemo-)embolization (TACE/TAE). The object of the transarterial treatment procedures is to deliver the highest possible concentration of a chemotherapy agent or combination of chemotherapy agents directly into the tumour by way of the blood vessels supplying it, while at the same time keeping the systemic effects of the drugs as small as possible. Transarterial chemoperfusion to the liver can be applied in the treatment of all primary and secondary hepatic tumours, but the main indications are hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and metastases from colorectal primary tumours.