Posttranscatheter embolization computed tomography in hepatocellular carcinoma. Evaluation of embolization effects.

The postcontrast CT scans and angiography of 26 lesions in 23 patients with hepatomas who underwent transcatheter arterial embolization therapy were reviewed. Newly developed low density and high density areas and gas were noted on CT scans of the tumors after embolization in 100, 8 and 58% of the lesions, respectively. The CT findings of residual tumors correlated well with those of follow-up angiography. When discrete smooth round low density zones were observed on CT, there was no residual neovascularity on follow-up arteriography. When there were nodular or thick septum-like structures in low density lesions, arteriography revealed residual tumor vascularity in the lesions. CT proved useful not only in evaluating the effects of embolization, but also in providing important information about residual tumors.