Transcatheter oily chemoembolization of the inferior phrenic artery in hepatocellular carcinoma: the safety and potential therapeutic role.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transcatheter oily chemoembolization therapy (TOCE) via the inferior phrenic artery (IPA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty patients with HCC underwent a total of 82 procedures of TOCE of the IPA, as well as of the hepatic artery. In 16 patients, additional extrahepatic collaterals were depicted and were also embolized in 10 patients. TOCE was performed with an emulsion of iodized oil and doxorubicin hydrochloride, and gelatin sponge particle embolization was added in 32 patients.

RESULTS

Initial response showed complete or partial remission of the tumor in 31 patients. The cumulative survival rates after combined TOCE of the hepatic artery, IPA, and other extrahepatic arteries were 89% (6 months), 78% (1 year), 46% (2 year), and 30% (3 year), when calculated from the time of IPA chemoembolization. Liver abscess and empyema developed in one case of combined IPA and multiple intercostal artery chemoembolization. There were no serious complications after IPA chemoembolization alone.

CONCLUSION

TOCE of the IPA has a potential therapeutic role as a safe adjunct to TOCE of the hepatic artery in the management of HCC supplied by the IPA.